U SPORTS vs NCAA: Academic Requirements for Ontario Student-Athletes

Ontario student-athletes often have three realistic paths after high school: NCAA schools in the United States, U SPORTS teams at Canadian universities and junior colleges (JUCO) in the United States. Each one checks your academics differently. Here is a side-by-side look so you can plan your courses once and keep every option open.

The quick comparison

NCAA (D1 and D2)

• Who checks your academics: NCAA Eligibility Center

• Entry requirement: 16 core courses and a minimum core GPA (2.3 for D1, 2.2 for D2)

• What matters most: U and M courses in core subjects, marks converted to a 4.0 scale

• Standardized tests: Not required for NCAA eligibility

U SPORTS

• Who checks your academics: The university you are admitted to

• Entry requirement: Admission to the university and enrollment in degree courses

• What matters most: Your admission average and program prerequisites

• Standardized tests: Not required by most Ontario universities

JUCO

• Who checks your academics: The college you enroll in

• Entry requirement: Proof of high school graduation

• What matters most: Your diploma, then college grades once enrolled

• Standardized tests: Generally not required

NCAA: a course-by-course standard

The NCAA is the most detailed of the three. Division I requires 16 core courses, including 4 years of English and 3 years of math, with 10 core courses completed before your final year and a minimum core GPA of 2.3. Division II requires 16 core courses and a 2.2 core GPA. For Ontario students, only University (U) and University/College (M) courses count as core courses. Learn more in our step-by-step NCAA eligibility guide.

U SPORTS: admission is the key

Since the 2024-25 season, first-year U SPORTS student-athletes can compete and receive athletic scholarships once they are admitted to a university and enrolled in degree courses. There is no separate first-year grade minimum. That means your Ontario admission average and program prerequisites are what really count. Competitive programs often require strong averages across six Grade 12 U and M courses, so upgrading one or two marks can make a real difference.

JUCO: your diploma opens the door

Junior college athletics programs require proof of high school graduation. For Ontario students that is the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Once you are enrolled, you need to keep up your college grades and course load to stay eligible. JUCO can be a strong path for athletes who want to develop and then transfer to a four-year school.

How to plan for all three at once

• Choose U and M courses in English, math, science and social science from Grade 9 onward. They satisfy the NCAA and support university admission.

• Protect your marks. An 80 counts as a 4.0 for the NCAA and also helps your U SPORTS admission average.

• Watch the timeline. Complete 10 NCAA core courses before your final year.

• Graduate on time. Your OSSD is required for every path.

Plan your pathway with Aubrey Academy

Aubrey Academy is a Ministry-inspected Ontario private online high school (BSID 665140) built around training and travel schedules. Our NCAA Eligibility Pathway Planning service (CA$250) covers D1, D2, D3, U SPORTS and JUCO. It includes a transcript review, your NCAA core GPA, your U SPORTS admission average, a course-by-course academic plan and an academic profile for coaches. Your first NCAA consultation is free. The service is open to student-athletes everywhere, not only in Canada, including international and U.S. students. Visit our student-athlete page to learn more.

Rules can change. Always confirm requirements with the NCAA Eligibility Center, U SPORTS, the NJCAA and each school.

What OSSD Courses Do You Need for University?

If you're planning to attend university in Ontario, choosing the right OSSD courses is an important part of your high school plan. University programs have specific admission requirements and prerequisites, so students should check what courses they need before choosing their Grade 12 schedule.

For students thinking about university, September is a good time to review those requirements and make sure their courses line up with their post-secondary goals.

Which Courses Are Required for University?

The courses you need depend on the university program you want to apply to. Many Ontario university programs require specific Grade 12 University Preparation (4U) courses, while others have additional prerequisites.

For example, a student interested in engineering may need specific Grade 12 math, physics, or chemistry courses, while another program may have completely different requirements.

The best place to start is by researching the programs you're interested in and making a list of their required courses.

What Does 4U Mean?

A 4U course is a Grade 12 University Preparation course in Ontario.

Students planning to attend university will often need several 4U courses as part of their OSSD and university admission plan. However, the exact courses required depend on the program.

Don't choose your Grade 12 courses based only on what you think you'll need. Check the admission requirements for your intended program first.

How Do You Know Which Courses You Need?

Start by looking at the admission requirements for the university programs you're considering.

Pay attention to:

• Required Grade 12 courses

• Specific prerequisites

• Required 4U or 4M courses

• Minimum admission averages

• Additional program requirements

It's also important to check the university's website for the most current information, since admission requirements can change.

What If You're Missing a University Prerequisite?

Finding out that you're missing a required course doesn't necessarily mean your plans have to change.

Depending on your situation, you may be able to take an individual OSSD course to meet a prerequisite, upgrade a mark, or complete a course that isn't available through your current school.

Aubrey Academy is a Ministry-inspected online private high school in Ontario offering individual OSSD courses for students in Grades 9–12.

Online courses can be particularly useful for students who need flexibility or want to complete a specific course without changing their entire high school program.

Can You Take an OSSD Course Online?

Yes. Students can take individual OSSD courses online through an Ontario private high school.

Aubrey Academy offers a range of university-preparation courses, including ENG4U, MHF4U, MCV4U, MDM4U, SBI4U, SCH4U and SPH4U, among others.

This can be an option for students who need a prerequisite, want to upgrade a course, or need a more flexible learning schedule.

Planning Ahead for University

Students don't need to wait until Grade 12 to start thinking about university. If you have an idea of the programs or fields you're interested in, reviewing admission requirements early can help you choose courses that keep your options open.

This can be especially helpful for students who are considering competitive programs or courses with specific prerequisites.

Getting Ready for Applications

If you're applying to university this year, September is the right time to review your course plan, confirm your prerequisites, and make sure you're on track to complete the courses required for your programs.

The 2027 Ontario university application cycle is now underway, with the OUAC application deadline on January 15, 2027.

Getting organized early can help you avoid discovering a missing prerequisite when an application deadline is approaching.

What About Student Athletes?

Student athletes may need to plan their courses around training, competitions, travel, and other commitments.

Online OSSD courses can provide additional flexibility for students who need to balance academics with athletics while continuing to work toward their university goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take just one university prerequisite online?

Depending on your circumstances, yes. An individual online OSSD course may be an option if you need to complete a specific prerequisite.

Can I upgrade a Grade 12 course?

Students may be able to retake or upgrade a course to improve their mark. Always check the requirements of the university program you're applying to.

Does Aubrey Academy help students choose courses?

Yes. Aubrey Academy provides academic guidance to help students understand their OSSD requirements, course options, and post-secondary pathways.

Start Planning Your Next Steps

Choosing the right courses starts with understanding where you want to go next. Whether you're planning ahead for university, preparing for applications, balancing academics with athletics, or missing a prerequisite, having a clear course plan can help you stay on track.

Aubrey Academy offers flexible online OSSD courses for Ontario students who need to complete a prerequisite, upgrade a course, or take a course that fits their individual schedule.

Ready to find the right course for your university pathway?

Can You Take Just One High School Course Online?

Sometimes, a student doesn't need to change schools. They just need one course.

Maybe your teen is missing a prerequisite for a college or university program. Maybe they want to improve a mark, recover a credit, or take a course that doesn't fit into their regular school schedule.

For Ontario students, taking one high school course online can provide a flexible way to meet an academic goal without changing their entire education plan.

With an online OSSD course, students can continue working toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma while learning from home and managing their other commitments.

Why Would a Student Take One Online Course?

There are many reasons a student may need just one additional high school course.

For example, a Grade 12 student may discover that a university program requires a specific Grade 12 course they did not take. Rather than changing their entire timetable, they may be able to complete that course online.

Another student may have failed a course and need to recover the credit before graduation. Someone else may want to improve a mark to strengthen their application for a competitive college or university program.

Individual online courses can also be useful for students whose schedules don't fit neatly into a traditional school day.

A student athlete may have practices and competitions during regular school hours. A dancer may spend several evenings each week at the studio. A student who travels with family may need a learning option that can move with them.

In these situations, one online course can make a big difference.

What Can You Use One Online Course For?

An individual course can serve different academic purposes depending on the student's needs.

Completing a Prerequisite

Some post-secondary programs require specific high school courses.

For example, a student planning to apply to a program that requires a particular Grade 12 course may discover that the course isn't part of their current timetable. Taking it online may provide another option for completing the requirement.

Students should always check the admission requirements for their specific college or university program before choosing a course.

Recovering a Missing Credit

Students sometimes need to recover a credit because they were unsuccessful in a course or were unable to complete it.

An online course can give them another opportunity to complete the required work and continue toward their graduation goals.

Improving a Mark

A student may have completed a course but want to improve their grade.

For example, a student planning to apply to a competitive university program may decide they want to strengthen a particular mark. Taking an individual course online may give them an opportunity to work toward a stronger result.

Getting Ahead

Not every student takes an extra course because something went wrong.

Some students simply want to get ahead.

A Grade 10 student, for example, may want to complete an additional course before the following school year. Taking a course online can provide an opportunity to work toward another OSSD credit outside their regular school schedule.

Can You Take an Online Course While Attending Another School?

Students attending a publicly funded school may be able to take an individual course through an inspected private school at the same time. This can be helpful when a student's current school doesn't offer the course they need or when they need additional flexibility.

For example, a student might continue attending their regular high school while completing one additional OSSD course online. Before enrolling, families should speak with their current school and the online school to make sure the course fits the student's academic plan and understand how the credit will be recorded.

How Does an Individual Online Course Work?

Taking one online course doesn't mean your teen has to manage everything on their own.

An online course typically includes course materials, assignments, assessments, and academic support from a teacher.

At Aubrey Academy, students can take individual OSSD courses online with the flexibility to fit their coursework around school, work, athletics, family commitments, or other responsibilities. This gives students the flexibility to fit a course around school, work, athletics, family commitments, or other responsibilities.

For example, a student who needs one additional Grade 12 course may be able to work on that course around their existing school schedule rather than trying to rearrange their entire year.

You can browse Aubrey Academy's OSSD courses to see the courses available.

Can Online Courses Help Students Earn an OSSD?

Yes, students can earn OSSD credits through eligible courses offered by a Ministry-inspected private school authorized to grant OSSD credits.

The Ontario Secondary School Diploma has specific graduation requirements, so students should look at their existing credits and remaining requirements before choosing an additional course.

For a student who is missing one credit, the right course may help them move closer to completing those requirements.

For a student who is already on track to graduate, an additional course may instead be useful for a prerequisite or another academic goal.

If you're unsure what your teen needs, Aubrey Academy's OSSD and online high school services provide more information about the options available.

Who Might Benefit From One Online Course?

An individual online course can be a good option for many different students.

Students Who Need More Flexibility

A student may have a busy schedule because of competitive sports, dance, music, work, or other commitments.

For example, a competitive dancer may spend several hours each week training and performing. An online course can provide more flexibility around those commitments.

Aubrey Academy also supports students who need flexibility around athletics through its Student Athlete program.

Students Who Travel

Some families travel frequently or spend part of the year outside Ontario.

An online course can allow students to continue their studies while away, provided they have reliable internet access and meet the course requirements.

Students living outside Canada can also learn more about Aubrey Academy's options for international students.

Students Who Want to Improve Their Academic Options

Sometimes one course can open another door.

A student may discover that a program they want to apply to has a prerequisite they haven't completed. Instead of giving up on that option, they can look at whether completing the required course online is possible.

What Should Parents Check Before Enrolling?

Before choosing an individual online course, it's worth asking a few questions.

Does the course meet the student's academic goal?

Make sure the course matches the prerequisite, credit, or mark-upgrading goal the student has in mind.

Will the course provide an OSSD credit?

If the goal is an Ontario high school credit, confirm that the school is authorized to grant the credit.

Does the course fit the student's schedule?

Consider how much time your teen can realistically dedicate to the course alongside their other responsibilities.

What academic support is available?

Ask how students communicate with teachers and what support is available if they have questions or need help with their coursework.

If you have questions about enrollment, course options, or how online learning works, Aubrey Academy's FAQ is a helpful place to start.

One Course Can Make a Difference

Your teen doesn't always need to change their entire education plan to get the academic support they need.

Sometimes they need one course.

Whether they're completing a prerequisite, recovering a missing credit, upgrading a mark, or getting ahead, an individual online OSSD course can provide another option.

The key is finding a course that fits their academic goals, schedule, and future plans.

Ready to Find the Right Course?

If your teen needs just one high school course, Aubrey Academy offers flexible online OSSD courses that students can take from anywhere and complete at their own pace.

Browse Aubrey Academy's OSSD courses to find the course your student needs, or call/text (416) 998-3354 to speak with the team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take just one high school course online?

Yes. Students can take an individual online OSSD course without completing their entire high school education online. An individual course can be used for a prerequisite, credit recovery, mark improvement, or another academic goal.

Can I take an online course to upgrade my high school mark?

An individual online course may be an option for students who want to improve a mark. Students should discuss their specific academic situation and goals with the school before enrolling.

Can I take an online course to meet a college or university prerequisite?

Yes, an online OSSD course may be an option for completing a prerequisite. Students should always confirm the specific admission requirements of the college or university program they plan to apply to.

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

Ontario's New 10 Percent Attendance Mark: What It Means for Student Athletes and Flexible Learners

Ontario high school students are starting the 2026–27 school year under significant new assessment rules — and one of the biggest changes is the addition of attendance and participation to the final course mark.

Under the province's new assessment requirements, attendance and participation now account for 15% of the final mark in Grades 9 and 10 and 10% in Grades 11 and 12.

For families of student-athletes, performers, students who travel frequently, and other learners whose schedules don't fit a traditional school day, this raises an important question:

How will time away from school affect my child's grades?

The answer depends on how a school defines and measures attendance and participation and for students with demanding schedules, the learning model matters more than ever.

What Is Bill 101?

The Putting Student Achievement First Act, 2026 (Bill 101) introduced changes to Ontario's education system, including new assessment and evaluation requirements for secondary students.

The legislation received Royal Assent on May 7, 2026, and provisions affecting education have come into force in stages. The new attendance and participation requirements apply beginning with the 2026–27 school year.

The Ontario Ministry of Education now requires final secondary school marks to include attendance and participation.

This means attendance is no longer simply something recorded by a school. For students in Grades 9–12, it can now form part of the final course grade.

How Are Ontario High School Grades Calculated in 2026–27?

The new grading structure divides a student's final course mark into three components.

Grades 9 and 10

• 65% — Classroom work completed throughout the course

• 20% — Mandatory final evaluation

• 15% — Attendance and participation

Grades 11 and 12

• 65% — Classroom work completed throughout the course

• 25% — Mandatory final evaluation

• 10% — Attendance and participation

For a Grade 9 or 10 student, that means attendance and participation can represent 15 marks out of the student's final 100%.

For a Grade 11 or 12 student, it represents 10 marks.

That is a meaningful change from the previous assessment model, where attendance and participation were not directly included as a percentage of the final course mark.

Do Excused Absences Lower a Student's Mark?

No.

This is one of the most important points for parents to understand.

The Ontario Ministry of Education states that excused absences do not negatively affect a student's mark.

Schools may consider a student's attendance, engagement and participation when determining this component of the final grade, but an absence that is properly excused should not result in a reduction to the student's mark.

This distinction is particularly important for students whose schedules include legitimate commitments outside the classroom.

Parents should always follow their school's process for reporting or documenting an absence.

What About Student-Athletes Who Travel?

This is where the new attendance and participation mark becomes especially important for student-athletes.

Competitive athletes may spend significant amounts of time:

• Travelling to tournaments

• Competing outside Ontario

• Attending training camps

• Participating in showcases

• Training multiple times per week

• Travelling internationally

• Attending recruitment events

• Preparing for provincial, national or international competitions

A traditional school schedule can make this difficult.

A student may be an excellent learner, complete their assignments, communicate with teachers and maintain strong academic performance but still have a schedule that doesn't fit neatly into a conventional classroom timetable.

The question isn't simply: "How often is the student physically in a classroom?"

For today's student-athletes, an increasingly important question is:

How is the school measuring meaningful participation?

That distinction matters.

Why an Asynchronous Online School Can Be a Better Fit

At Aubrey Academy, our online OSSD model is designed around students who need flexibility without giving up academic support.

Our courses are asynchronous, meaning students do not have to be online in a traditional classroom at a fixed time each day.

Students can work around their actual schedules — including training, travel and competition — while continuing to complete their coursework and stay connected with their teachers.

This can be particularly valuable for student-athletes.

Instead of requiring a student to be physically present in a classroom at a specific time, an asynchronous model allows learning to happen around the student's schedule.

Explore Aubrey Academy's Online OSSD Courses

What Does "Participation" Look Like in an Online School?

Participation doesn't have to mean sitting in a classroom from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

In an online learning environment, meaningful participation can be demonstrated through engagement with the course and learning process.

At Aubrey Academy, our asynchronous model allows students to demonstrate engagement through their coursework, learning activities, communication and ongoing progress with teacher support.

For an athlete travelling to a tournament in another province, for example, the student isn't necessarily stepping away from school.

They may be completing coursework from a hotel room.

They may be working through a lesson between training sessions.

They may be communicating with their teacher remotely.

They may continue progressing through their course while travelling with their team.

The location may change. The learning doesn't have to stop.

That is one of the major advantages of flexible online education.

A Realistic Example

Imagine a Grade 11 student who plays competitive hockey.

During the season, the student may travel regularly for tournaments and competitions. Some weekends may involve long-distance travel, while weekdays may include several hours of training.

In a traditional school environment, the family may need to carefully coordinate missed classes, absences and make-up work.

With an asynchronous online course, the student can structure their learning around their athletic schedule.

They can continue working through their course while travelling, complete assignments according to their course requirements and maintain communication with their teacher.

For families considering an online school, this flexibility can make a significant difference.

Does This Mean Student-Athletes Don't Have to Participate?

No.

The new rules do not mean students can simply ignore their courses because they attend an online school.

Students still need to demonstrate meaningful engagement and complete their academic responsibilities.

The difference is that an asynchronous model can allow students to demonstrate that engagement without requiring them to follow a traditional classroom timetable.

That's an important distinction.

Flexibility does not mean less accountability.

It means the structure of learning is designed differently.

Written Exams Are Also Part of the New Rules

The attendance change isn't the only major assessment update for 2026–27.

Ontario has also introduced mandatory final evaluations, including written exams for many secondary courses. The Ministry states that most secondary courses will have mandatory written exams, with specific course and subject exemptions.

English, mathematics and science courses have written examinations as part of their final evaluation structure.

Some courses are exempt from the mandatory written exam requirement, including certain locally developed compulsory credit courses, Grades 11 and 12 workplace preparation and open courses, Co-operative Education, Interdisciplinary Studies and specified Guidance and Career Education courses. These courses still require a final evaluation.

For families choosing an online high school, it is important to understand not only how coursework is delivered, but also how final evaluations and exams are administered.

What Should Parents Ask an Online School?

If your child is considering online high school for the 2026–27 school year, don't just ask whether the school is "online."

Ask how the school handles the new assessment requirements.

Here are five questions worth asking:

1. How is attendance measured?

Ask what the school considers attendance and how it contributes to the student's final mark.

2. How is participation measured?

For an asynchronous student, this is especially important.

Ask how the school evaluates meaningful engagement when there isn't a traditional daily classroom.

3. What happens when my child travels?

If your child is an athlete, performer or frequently travelling student, ask how travel affects course participation and deadlines.

4. How are final evaluations and exams completed?

Find out whether exams are written online, in person, remotely proctored or administered another way.

5. Can the school accommodate an athletic schedule?

A school may technically offer online courses while still requiring rigid schedules.

Make sure the learning model actually fits your child's life.

Why This Matters for Families Choosing an OSSD Pathway

The new Ontario grading rules don't mean that traditional school is the wrong choice.

But they do make school structure and assessment practices more important considerations for families.

For some students, a traditional classroom environment is exactly what they need.

For others — particularly student-athletes, performers, working students, frequent travellers and learners who thrive with greater flexibility — an asynchronous online model may be a better fit.

At Aubrey Academy, we believe students shouldn't have to choose between their academic future and the activities, goals and commitments that matter to them.

Our Ministry-inspected Ontario private high school offers flexible online OSSD credit courses supported by Ontario Certified Teachers, with academic pathways designed around each student's goals.

See How Aubrey Academy Supports Student-Athletes

The Bottom Line

Ontario's new attendance and participation mark is now part of the high school grading system.

Starting in the 2026–27 school year:

• Grades 9 and 10 include 15% attendance and participation

• Grades 11 and 12 include 10% attendance and participation

• Excused absences do not negatively affect a student's mark

• Mandatory final evaluations have been introduced

• Many courses now include written final exams

• Schools must follow the province's updated assessment requirements

For student-athletes and other flexible learners, the key question isn't simply how much time a student spends inside a classroom.

It's whether their school environment allows them to stay engaged, keep learning and demonstrate meaningful participation while managing the realities of their schedule.

Looking for Flexible OSSD Credits?

If your child is balancing high-performance athletics, training, travel, work or other commitments, Aubrey Academy can help you explore an OSSD pathway that fits.

Contact Aubrey Academy to discuss flexible online OSSD credits and find out whether our asynchronous learning model is right for your student.

Aubrey Academy
Ontario Ministry-Inspected Private High School
BSID #665140
📧 info@aubreyacademy.ca
📞 (416) 998-3354

Explore Flexible Online OSSD Courses

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.

📢 Official Announcement

Aubrey Academy

Named Official Academic Partner of North Pole Hoops

A new partnership built around a simple belief: a student-athlete's future on the court should never come at the expense of their future in the classroom.

We're proud to announce that Aubrey Academy has been named the Official Academic Partner of North Pole Hoops (NPH) — Canada's leading platform for youth and prep basketball. Through this multi-year partnership, we're bringing flexible, accredited education directly to the student-athletes and families who need it most.

WHY THIS PARTNERSHIP MATTERS

For families navigating the prep basketball world, the academic side of the journey is often the most confusing part. Between NCAA eligibility requirements, credit planning, and finding a school that actually fits a high-performance training and travel schedule, too many talented athletes discover too late that their coursework didn't set them up for the next level.

That's exactly the gap this partnership is built to close.

As the Official Academic Partner of NPH, Aubrey Academy will help student-athletes across the NPH ecosystem stay eligible, stay on track, and graduate with real choices for their future — whether that's an NCAA scholarship, a Canadian university, or another path entirely.

WHAT AUBREY ACADEMY BRINGS

Aubrey Academy is an Ontario Ministry-inspected private online high school offering asynchronous Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) credit courses, taught by Ontario-certified teachers. Our model is built for students whose schedules don't fit the traditional classroom — which describes nearly every serious student-athlete.

For NPH families, that means access to:

- OSSD credit courses (Grades 9–12) — legitimate, university- and college-recognized credits
- Credit upgrading — improve a mark to strengthen admissions and eligibility standing
- Fast-track credits — catch up or accelerate around your season
- NCAA-eligibility planning — map the right academic route to your athletic goals
- PLAR and equivalency credits — for international students and prior learning
- Personalized tutoring and individualized academic support

Because our courses are fully flexible, an athlete can train, travel, and compete without falling behind — and without sacrificing the quality or credibility of their education.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDER

WHAT COMES NEXT

Throughout the season, families will see Aubrey Academy featured across NPH broadcasts, newsletters, and league communications, along with a video series introducing our school leadership, teachers, NCAA eligibility guidance, and student-athletes. Our goal is simple: make it easier than ever for student-athletes to be prepared for everything expected of them at the next level.

READY TO GET STARTED?

If you're a student-athlete or parent who wants to learn more or enroll, getting started is simple:

1. Complete our registration form (linked below)
2. Send us a transcript or recent report card so we can verify credits
3. We'll help place you into the right courses for your goals

Have questions? Contact our admissions team at info@aubreyacademy.caor use our Contact Us page.

Read the full partnership announcement on NorthPoleHoops.com.

Aubrey Academy is an Ontario Ministry-inspected private online high school (BSID #665140) offering flexible OSSD credit courses for domestic and international students, with a focus on supporting student-athletes.