Ontario's New Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement: A Parent's Guide

Ontario’s new Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement begins in the 2026–2027 school year for eligible Grade 10 students. Learn what parents need to know about the 70% requirement, two attempts, and how it affects the Career Studies course.

Starting in September 2026, a new financial literacy requirement will become part of earning an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) for eligible students.

For parents, this raises some important questions: What is the new financial literacy graduation requirement? Does my teen have to take a test? What mark do they need? What happens if they don't pass? And how does this work for students taking Grade 10 Career Studies online?

The good news is that the requirement is completed as part of the compulsory Grade 10 Career Studies course (GLC2O). Students will have opportunities to prepare, receive support, and try again if they are unsuccessful on their first attempt.

Here is what Ontario parents need to know about the new financial literacy graduation requirement for 2026.

What Is the New Ontario Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement?

Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, eligible Ontario high school students must successfully complete a Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement to earn their OSSD.

The requirement is completed within the compulsory Grade 10 Career Studies course, GLC2O.

The Ministry of Education has introduced the requirement to make sure students leave high school with practical financial knowledge they can use in everyday life. The assessment focuses on financial literacy concepts that students have encountered through the Grades 1 to 9 curriculum and their Grade 10 Career Studies learning.

The requirement consists of learning modules and assessment questions developed by TVO and provided to schools. Students must earn a minimum mark of 70% to successfully complete the requirement.

Once successfully completed, the requirement is recorded on the student's Ontario Student Transcript.

Who needs to complete the financial literacy requirement?

The requirement applies to students who began Grade 9 in the 2025–2026 school year or later.

In practical terms, students entering Grade 10 in the 2026–2027 school year who are taking GLC2O will generally need to complete the requirement as part of that course.

The financial literacy requirement is now one of the requirements students must meet to earn an OSSD, alongside their credits, literacy requirement, community involvement hours and other applicable graduation requirements.

What Is the Grade 10 Career Studies Financial Literacy Test?

Parents may hear this requirement referred to as the Grade 10 financial literacy test, financial literacy exam, or 70% financial literacy test.

Officially, Ontario refers to it as the Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement.

Students complete TVO-developed learning modules and assessment questions during their Grade 10 Career Studies course. The assessment is designed to measure whether students understand important financial concepts rather than simply testing whether they can memorize information.

Students have two attempts during the Career Studies course to meet the requirement. They need to achieve at least 70%.

The results also have a small impact on the student's GLC2O course grade. The financial literacy results count for 5% of the student's final Career Studies mark, with the highest attempt mark used if the student makes more than one attempt.

What Does the Ontario Financial Literacy Requirement Cover?

The goal is to give students practical knowledge they can use when they begin managing their own money.

The financial literacy requirement covers topics including:

• Budgeting

• Interest rates

• Earning and saving money

• Taxes

• Credit and debt

• Consumer awareness

• Financial fraud and protecting personal information

These are skills students will encounter in real life, whether they are getting their first job, opening a bank account, applying for a credit card, paying bills, saving for post-secondary education or eventually taking on larger financial responsibilities.

TVO's financial literacy resources are designed to help students understand these concepts and make informed financial decisions.

What Happens If a Student Doesn't Get 70%?

This is one of the biggest questions parents have — and there is no need to panic if a student does not achieve 70% on the first attempt.

Students have two attempts during their Grade 10 Career Studies course.

If a student is unsuccessful on the first attempt, they can review additional resources and receive support before completing a second attempt. The school will provide information about the next steps.

If a student is still unsuccessful after two attempts, Ontario provides additional pathways to complete the requirement. These can include another supervised attempt, additional instructional support before attempting the modules again, or completing alternative financial literacy learning activities developed by TVO.

These options can remain available until the student successfully completes the requirement.

In other words, not passing the first attempt does not automatically mean a student cannot graduate.

Does the Financial Literacy Requirement Count Toward the GLC2O Grade?

Yes.

The results from the financial literacy modules count for 5% of the student's final Grade 10 Career Studies mark.

If a student completes more than one attempt, the highest attempt mark is used as part of the final Career Studies grade. Once the student successfully meets the graduation requirement, it is recorded on their Ontario Student Transcript.

This means students should take the requirement seriously, but it is only one component of their overall GLC2O course.

Who Is Exempt From the Ontario Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement?

There are some exceptions.

Students who completed their Grade 10 Career Studies course before the beginning of the 2026–2027 school year do not have to complete the new financial literacy graduation requirement.

There are also special rules for some students who transfer into Ontario from outside the province.

For example, students who enrol in an Ontario school in Grade 11 or Grade 12 from outside Ontario may not have to complete the requirement if they receive Grade 9 and 10 credits through the equivalency process, including the Grade 10 Career Studies credit.

There is also a transition rule affecting students who take a locally developed Grade 9 Mathematics course instead of MTH1W before September 2027. Beginning in September 2028, all students will be required to complete the financial literacy graduation requirement.

Because individual student pathways can vary, families who are unsure about whether the requirement applies to their teen should speak with their school or academic advisor.

How Does the Financial Literacy Requirement Work for Online Students?

This is especially important for families considering online high school.

Ontario has specific rules for administering the Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement in online and remote learning environments.

For publicly funded school boards, students taking an online or remote Career Studies course may be required to complete the requirement in person unless the course includes approved online proctoring and security measures.

Ontario also states that inspected private schools may administer the requirement through online proctoring.

At Aubrey Academy, students can complete GLC2O through a flexible online learning environment while receiving teacher support throughout the course.

Explore GLC2O – Grade 10 Careers at Aubrey Academy

How Aubrey Academy Supports Students With GLC2O

Aubrey Academy offers GLC2O – Grade 10 Careers as an Ontario OSSD credit course.

The course already includes important financial management learning, including personal financial management, saving and borrowing tools, and creating a budget for a student's first year after secondary school.

Because Aubrey Academy uses a flexible, asynchronous learning model, students can work through their coursework at a pace that fits their individual circumstances, while still having access to Ontario-certified teacher support.

This can be particularly helpful for students who:

• Need a more flexible school schedule

• Are balancing academics with athletics or other commitments

• Need to catch up on an OSSD credit

• Prefer working independently

• Are completing high school courses online

• Need additional time to review concepts before an assessment

• Want to fast-track a course when appropriate

Aubrey Academy offers Ontario OSSD courses for students in Grades 9–12, with flexible start dates and pacing options.

View All Aubrey Academy OSSD Courses

Why Financial Literacy Matters Beyond the Graduation Requirement

Although the new requirement is connected to graduation, the skills students learn have value well beyond Grade 10.

Many teenagers will soon be making financial decisions independently for the first time.

They may need to understand how much money they actually take home from a part-time job, how interest affects borrowing, why minimum credit-card payments can become expensive, how to create a realistic monthly budget, or how to recognize a financial scam.

These are not just school topics. They are everyday life skills.

Learning about financial literacy before students leave high school can give them a stronger foundation as they move into university, college, apprenticeships, employment or other post-secondary pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ontario's Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement

What is the financial literacy graduation requirement in Ontario?

The Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement is a new OSSD graduation requirement beginning in the 2026–2027 school year. Eligible students complete it as part of compulsory Grade 10 Career Studies (GLC2O) and must achieve at least 70% to successfully meet the requirement.

Is there a Grade 10 financial literacy test in Ontario?

Yes, although the official name is the Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement. It consists of learning modules and assessment questions developed by TVO. Students complete it as part of their Grade 10 Career Studies course and have two attempts during the course to achieve the required 70%.

What happens if my child fails the Ontario financial literacy test?

Students who do not achieve 70% on their first attempt can receive additional support and have a second attempt. If they are unsuccessful after two attempts, Ontario provides additional options for completing the requirement, including further instructional support and alternative learning activities.

Does GLC2O include financial literacy?

Yes. Grade 10 Career Studies includes personal financial management as part of the course. Students learn about saving and borrowing tools and develop a budget as part of preparing for life after secondary school. The new Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement is completed within GLC2O.

Can I take GLC2O online in Ontario?

Yes. Aubrey Academy offers GLC2O – Grade 10 Careers as an online OSSD credit course. Students can learn through Aubrey Academy's flexible online model with teacher support and pacing options designed to accommodate different student schedules.

Learn More About GLC2O at Aubrey Academy

Need Help With Grade 10 Career Studies?

The new Ontario financial literacy graduation requirement may feel like one more thing for families to keep track of. The important thing to remember is that it is built into GLC2O – Grade 10 Career Studies, and students have opportunities to learn, prepare, and try again if necessary.

At Aubrey Academy, students can complete GLC2O online with the flexibility and teacher support they need to stay on track toward their OSSD.

Interested in enrolling in GLC2O or another Ontario high school course? Contact Aubrey Academy to learn more about course availability, registration, and the best pathway for your student.

Email: info@aubreyacademy.ca
Call or text: (416) 998-3354

Contact Aubrey Academy About GLC2O and OSSD Courses

10 Signs Your Teen Might Thrive in an Online High School (Ontario Parents’ Guide)

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At Aubrey Academy, a Ministry-inspected Ontario private school (BSID #665140), we help students earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) through flexible online learning. Here are ten signs that your teen might thrive in an online high school setting.‍

For some Ontario teens, an online high school can provide the flexibility, structure, and academic support they need to succeed while working toward their OSSD. ‍

1. They Prefer a Flexible Schedule‍ ‍

If your teen has commitments like sports, dance, music, or part-time work, online learning allows them to balance their responsibilities more effectively. Instead of trying to fit everything into a traditional school day, they can create a schedule that works for them while continuing to earn their OSSD.‍ ‍

Learn more about how we support Student Athletes.‍ ‍

2. They Are Self-Motivated‍ ‍

Students who can manage their time and stay on task independently often excel in an online environment. They enjoy taking ownership of their learning while still receiving support and guidance from their teachers when they need it.‍ ‍

3. They Feel Distracted in Traditional Classrooms‍ ‍

A quieter, more controlled learning space at home can help students focus better. For teens who find busy classrooms overwhelming, online learning can reduce distractions and improve concentration.‍ ‍

4. They Want to Learn at Their Own Pace‍ ‍

Online courses allow students to move quickly through material they understand and spend more time on challenging topics. This flexibility can build confidence and help students achieve better results.‍ ‍

5. They Have Unique Learning Needs‍ ‍

Whether they need extra support or more advanced material, online learning can be tailored to fit individual needs. Personalized learning helps students work toward success in a way that suits them best.‍ ‍

Not sure which courses your teen should start with? Visit our FAQ to learn more about enrollment, credits, pacing, and teacher support at Aubrey Academy.‍ ‍

6. They Experience Anxiety in Social Settings

‍ ‍For some students, reducing the pressures of a traditional school environment can improve confidence and academic performance. Learning in a comfortable environment allows many teens to focus more on their education and less on the stress of everyday school life.‍ ‍

7. They Travel Frequently‍ ‍

Families who travel or relocate often can benefit from the consistency of online education. Whether travelling for sports, work, or family commitments, students can continue earning Ontario high school credits from anywhere with an internet connection.‍ ‍

Learn more about our International Student program.

8. They Are Pursuing Specialized Interests‍

Teens focused on athletics, dance, music, arts, or other passions can maintain their training while continuing their education. Online learning provides the flexibility to pursue personal goals without putting academics on hold.‍ ‍

9. They Want to Upgrade or Recover Credits‍ ‍

Online learning offers opportunities to retake courses, improve grades, or earn missing OSSD credits in a flexible format. Many Ontario students choose online courses to strengthen their college or university applications.‍ ‍

Browse our complete list of OSSD Courses.‍ ‍

10. They Are Preparing for Post-Secondary Goals

‍ Online learning helps students develop independence, time management, and responsibility—skills that are essential for college and university success. These habits often give students greater confidence as they transition to post-secondary education.‍

Learn more about our programs and how Aubrey Academy helps students earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma.‍ ‍

Is Online High School Right for Your Teen?

Every student learns differently, and the best learning environment is one that supports their individual goals, strengths, and lifestyle. For many Ontario families, online education provides the flexibility and personalized support students need to succeed.‍ ‍

At Aubrey Academy, we’re committed to helping students earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) through engaging online courses, experienced teachers, and personalized academic support.‍ ‍

Ready to see if online learning is the right fit for your teen? Browse our full list of OSSD courses, explore our programs, or call/text us at (416) 998-3354. Our team is happy to answer your questions and help you find the right path forward.‍

Frequently Asked Questions

‍ Is an online high school diploma in Ontario the same as a regular diploma?

Yes. Students who meet Ontario’s graduation requirements receive the same Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) as students attending traditional schools.

Can students upgrade marks for college or university?

Yes. Many students take individual online OSSD courses to improve grades or recover credits for post-secondary admissions.

Can students complete online courses from anywhere?

‍ Absolutely. With a reliable internet connection, students can complete their coursework from anywhere while staying on track toward graduation.

Can You Earn an Accredited High School Diploma While Learning from Home?

Separating fact from fiction about online learning and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

When you hear the words "learning from home," what's the first thing that comes to mind?

For many people, it's a parent sitting at the kitchen table teaching every subject while trying to juggle work, family life, and lesson plans.

While that's still one approach to education, it's no longer the only one.

Today, students can earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) through an accredited online private school, learning from anywhere while receiving instruction and support from Ontario-certified teachers.

If you've been wondering whether it's possible to earn recognized high school credits outside of a traditional classroom, the answer is yes.

What Is an Accredited Online High School?

An accredited online high school delivers the Ontario curriculum through a flexible online learning environment while allowing students to earn official OSSD credits.

Instead of parents creating lessons and teaching every subject, students receive:

·         Ontario-certified teachers

·         Ministry-approved curriculum

·         Assignments, quizzes, and exams

·         Academic feedback and support

·         Official report cards

·         Recognized OSSD credits

Students enjoy the flexibility of learning at their own pace while working toward the same Ontario Secondary School Diploma awarded in traditional high schools.

Considering online learning for your child?

Whether your student wants to take a single course, improve a mark, or complete their Ontario Secondary School Diploma online, Aubrey Academy offers flexible OSSD credit courses that fit your family's schedule.

👉 Browse our OSSD Courses to see how flexible online learning can help your student succeed.

Homeschooling vs. Accredited Online School

Traditional Homeschooling

In a traditional homeschool setting, parents are typically responsible for selecting the curriculum, teaching the material, and tracking their child's progress.

Many families have wonderful homeschooling experiences, but homeschooling does not automatically lead to earning OSSD credits.

Accredited Online Learning

An Ontario Ministry-inspected online private school provides students with a structured education that includes certified teachers, recognized curriculum, assessments, and official Ontario credits.

Parents continue to support their child's learning—but they don't have to become the teacher.

Myth vs. Fact

Myth: Students learning from home can't earn accredited Ontario high school credits.

Fact: Students enrolled in an Ontario Ministry-inspected online private school can earn recognized OSSD credits while learning remotely.

Those credits count toward graduation requirements and can support applications to colleges and universities in Ontario, across Canada, and internationally, subject to each institution’s admission requirements.

Why Choose Online Learning

Online education has become an increasingly popular choice for students who:

·         Need a flexible schedule

·         Are competitive athletes, dancers, or performers

·         Travel frequently

·         Want to upgrade marks for college or university admission

·         Prefer learning at their own pace

·         Thrive in a quieter learning environment

·         Need an alternative to the traditional classroom

Rather than fitting every student into the same schedule, online learning gives students the flexibility to learn in a way that works best for them.

Why Families Choose Aubrey Academy

As a Ministry-inspected online private high school in Ontario (BSID #665140), Aubrey Academy provides students with the flexibility of online education while maintaining the academic standards of the Ontario curriculum.

·         Flexible, self-paced learning

·         Ontario-certified teachers

·         Continuous enrollment throughout the year

·         Personalized academic support

·         Official OSSD credit courses

·         The ability to study from anywhere in Ontario—or anywhere in the world

Whether you're a full-time student, an adult learner upgrading credits, or an international student pursuing an Ontario Secondary School Diploma, Aubrey Academy offers a flexible path to success.

The Future of Education Is Flexible

Learning from home no longer means learning alone.

Accredited online schools combine the flexibility families want with the structure, support, and recognized credentials students need to achieve their academic goals.

For many students, online learning isn't a backup plan, it's the best fit.

Ready to Get Started?

If you're looking for a flexible, accredited way to earn Ontario high school credits, Aubrey Academy is here to help.

Whether your goal is to complete one course, improve your grades, or earn your Ontario Secondary School Diploma, our experienced teachers and self-paced online courses make it possible to learn from anywhere.

👉 Ready to see if online learning is the right fit? Browse Aubrey Academy's full list of OSSD courses or email us at info@aubreyacademy.ca today to learn more.