Understanding the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD): Credit System, Graduation Requirements, and Student Success Strategies
If you’re a student or parent navigating high school education in Ontario, understanding the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is essential. The OSSD is the official diploma awarded to secondary school students who meet Ontario’s graduation requirements. This guide breaks down the OSSD credit system, distinguishes between compulsory and elective courses, explains credit recovery options, and outlines the additional requirements you need to graduate.
What Is the OSSD Credit System?
To earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma, students must successfully complete 30 credits:
- 18 compulsory credits
- 12 elective credits
Each credit generally represents 110 hours of instruction, and students typically earn one credit per course.
Compulsory vs. Elective Courses
Compulsory Credits (18 Total)
These are mandatory and must include:
- 4 credits in English (1 per grade)
- 3 credits in Mathematics (at least 1 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
- 0.5 credit in Career Studies
- 0.5 credit in Civics
+ 3 additional compulsory credits from specific groups (e.g., languages, social sciences, co-op).
Elective Credits (12 Total)
Elective courses allow students to explore personal interests and potential career paths. These may include:
- Business studies
- Computer science
- Drama or visual arts
- Technology education
- International languages
- Hospitality and tourism
Elective credits give students the flexibility to shape their education according to their goals.
Sample OSSD Credit Tracker Chart
| Course Type | Credits Required |
| English (Gr. 9–12) | 4 |
| Mathematics | 3 |
| Science | 2 |
| Canadian History | 1 |
| Canadian Geography | 1 |
| Health & Physical Education | 1 |
| The Arts | 1 |
| French as a Second Language | 1 |
| Career Studies (0.5) + Civics (0.5) | 1 |
| Additional compulsory (Groups 1–3) | 3 |
| Total Compulsory Credits | 18 |
| Elective Credits | 12 |
| Overall Total | 30 |
Credit Recovery: Getting Back on Track
Sometimes students struggle with certain courses. Credit recovery programs are designed to help students:
- Re-take failed or incomplete courses without starting from scratch
- Regain missing credits efficiently through targeted instruction
- Stay on track to graduate with their peers
Schools typically assess the student’s performance and tailor a recovery plan that fits their learning needs.
Additional OSSD Graduation Requirements
Beyond the 30 credits, students must also complete:
1. Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)
- Typically written in Grade 10
- Assesses reading and writing skills
- Students who don’t pass may take the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC) instead
2. 40 Hours of Community Involvement
- Promotes civic engagement
- Can include volunteering at non-profit organizations, events, or school activities
- Must be documented and approved by the school
Final Thoughts: Strategies for Student Success
- Plan early: Use a credit tracker starting in Grade 9 to monitor progress.
- Ask for help: Speak with guidance counselors about course options and recovery programs.
- Stay involved: Complete community service gradually and don’t wait until the last year.
- Prepare for OSSLT: Use practice materials and workshops if available.
The OSSD pathway is designed to be flexible and supportive, giving every student a chance to succeed—academically and personally. Understanding your requirements and resources is the first step toward graduation and future opportunities in post-secondary education or the workforce.
