Graduation Requirements

The Ontario Secondary School Diploma

Note: Starting in September 2026, students must earn a new financial literacy graduation requirement as part of your compulsory Grade 10 mathematics course. You will need to achieve a mark of 70% or higher to pass this new requirement.

17 Compulsory Credits

Starting in Fall 2024 students must complete the following to obtain the Ontario Secondary School Diploma:

  • 4 credits in English (1 credit per grade)
  • 3 credits in mathematics (1 credit in Grade 11 or 12)
  • 2 credits in science
  • 1 credit in Canadian history
  • 1 credit in Canadian geography
  • 1 credit in the arts
  • 1 credit in health and physical education
  • 1 credit in French as a second language
  • 1 credit in technological education (1 credit in Grade 9 or 10)
  • 0.5 credit in career studies
  • 0.5 credit in civics and citizenship
  • 1 Credit from a STEAM related Course group

Of the 17 compulsory credits you must complete 1 from the following group:

  • Business Studies
  • Computer Studies
  • Cooperative Education
  • Mathematics (in addition to the 3 compulsory credits currently required)
  • Science (in addition to the 2 compulsory credits currently required)
  • Technological Education (in addition to the 1 compulsory credit required)

13 Optional Credits

Students are required to take:

  • 4 Religious Education courses, one each year in grades 9-12.
  • 9 optional credits that match their interests or develop their skills

Optional credits can include up to 4 credits earned through approved dual-credit programs.

Other Requirements

  • 40 Community Involvement Hours Completed over 4 years. Note: Students can start earning hours in July & August before grade 9.
  • 2 Online Learning Credits. Note: For information on opting out of the online learning requirements, please see your guidance teacher.

Literacy Requirement

To earn this requirement most students will complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). Alternative ways to earn this requirement can be discussed with your school Guidance Teacher/Principal.

 

Please note that OSSD requirements may change. Please check the Ministry of Ontario website for the most accurate information.