The Ontario Secondary School Diploma is recognized globally and consistently ranks among the top five education credentials worldwide.
OSSD
The Ontario Ministry of Education issues the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
What is OSSD?
Students who complete all requirements of Ontario’s secondary school program earn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)—a globally respected credential recognized for its strong academic standards. Secondary school in Ontario includes Grades 9 through 12, each designed to build essential skills for future success.
The OSSD is issued by the Ontario Ministry of Education and is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and employers across Canada and around the world. This diploma provides students with a solid academic foundation, preparing them for post-secondary studies as well as professional pathways.
The curriculum offers a balanced educational experience, with opportunities to study core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social sciences, and humanities, along with specialized courses that support students’ individual goals and interests.
Worldwide Recognition of the OSSD
The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is a respected high school credential awarded to students who complete Ontario’s secondary school requirements, covering Grades 9 to 12. Known for its strong academic standards, the OSSD is issued by the Ontario Ministry of Education and is widely recognized across Canada and internationally.
Colleges, universities, and employers in Ontario and beyond value the OSSD for its comprehensive and structured approach to learning. Students who complete this program develop the academic foundation and critical skills needed for success in post-secondary studies and future career pathways.
The curriculum provides a balanced education across core subjects such as English, mathematics, science, social sciences, and humanities, while also offering opportunities to pursue specialized courses aligned with individual interests and goals.
Globally, the OSSD is acknowledged by many top universities and post-secondary institutions as a strong admission qualification. Its recognition by international education bodies further highlights the diploma’s credibility and high academic standards. Graduates of the OSSD can be confident that their credential is respected worldwide, giving them access to a broad range of higher education and career opportunities.
In order to graduate with an OSSD, students in Grades 9–12 must:
OSSD Requirements
To obtain an OSSD, from Grade 9-12 students must:
| 4 Credits | English ( 1 Credit per grade) |
| 3 Credits | Mathematics ( At least 1 credit in Grade 11 or 12 ) |
| 2 Credits | Science |
| 1 Credit | Canadian History ( Grade 10 ) |
| 1 Credit | Canadian geography ( Grade 9 ) |
| 1 Credit | Arts |
| 1 Credit | Health & Physical Education |
| 1 Credit | French as a second Language |
| 0.5 Credits | Career Studies |
| 0.5 Credits | Civics and Citizenships |
| 3 Credits | For Group 1,2 and 3 courses ( 1 credit in each group ) Note: Group 1, Group 2, group 3 courses availability depends upon the courses oeffered by Nova School, Students will be guided throught the course selection process by guidance counsellors. |
PLAR: Prior Learning by assist with Assessment & Recognition
PLAR—which stands for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition—is a process that acknowledges and evaluates a student’s existing knowledge and skills. These may be gained through formal education, work experience, volunteer activities, or other relevant experiences.
At Nova High School Canada, PLAR allows students to have their prior learning assessed against specific course or program requirements. This can help students earn credits toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) without repeating material they have already mastered.
The PLAR process is regulated by the Ontario Ministry of Education and typically involves assessment by qualified educators. This may include reviewing documentation, conducting interviews, or administering tests to evaluate a student’s prior learning and determine eligibility for course credit exemptions.