Prerequisite Waiver Policy and Procedure

Secondary credit courses  |  2026–2027

The principal may waive a course prerequisite if the student can succeed without completing it. Decisions are individual, evidence-based and documented. This policy follows current Ontario Schools requirements, including section 7.2.3.

1 Scope and limits

A waiver authorizes entry to the identified course only. It does not award credit or a mark for the missing prerequisite, grant PLAR equivalency, replace a compulsory credit, or waive course expectations, instructional requirements, assessment or graduation requirements. Post-secondary admission requirements remain separate.

International study, home schooling, independent learning, related coursework or experience may support readiness. Age, international status, a scheduling conflict or an application deadline alone does not demonstrate readiness. Check whether verified prior study already satisfies the prerequisite before considering a waiver; assess any credit recognition separately under the appropriate process.

2 Request review and decision

Step	USCA procedure
Request	A parent/guardian or adult student submits the request form; the principal may initiate review. Involve the student and obtain parental course-selection approval for a minor, except a 16- or 17-year-old withdrawn from parental control.
Verify	Confirm the target course title/code, current Ministry prerequisite and relevant records. Identify the specific learning needed for successful entry.
Assess readiness	Consult the subject teacher and review relevant transcripts, work samples, recommendations and diagnostic evidence. Obtain translations or further evidence as needed. Provide assessment accommodations without lowering standards.
Decide	The principal approves or declines, provides written reasons, and identifies any preparation, support, and a review date. Record why the evidence supports likely success. Do not enrol on an assumed or unsigned waiver.
Communicate and follow up.	Notify the student, parent/guardian (where applicable), teacher, and school office. Aim to respond within 10 business days of a complete request; this is USCA’s service target, not a Ministry deadline. If you need more time, explain why. Review progress and supports after entry.

3 Records and reconsideration

Retain the request, evidence, consultation notes, diagnostic results and signed principal decision in the OSR. Where another school holds the OSR, send the verified decision securely for inclusion. The school office records the approved course-entry arrangement; it must not enter a credit or mark for the uncompleted prerequisite.

If declined, explain alternatives such as completing the prerequisite or further preparation. The applicant may request principal reconsideration with additional evidence. Document the outcome. Publish this process in the School Course Calendar and review it annually or after Ministry changes.

Principal approval __________________________  Effective date __________  Review date __________

Ministry sources checked October 17, 2026: Ontario Schools section 7.2.3  |  Private school inspection requirements  |  OSR Guideline