What OSSD Courses Do You Need for University?
Which OSSD courses do you need for university in Ontario? Learn how to check program prerequisites, what 4U courses are, and how to take a missing prerequisite online before applications are due.
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?
What to Expect When Starting Online High School in Ontario
Thinking about online high school in Ontario? Learn how online courses, teacher support, OSSD credits and assessments work, and what students and parents can expect when they make the switch.
Starting online high school in Ontario can give students more flexibility while still allowing them to work toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Students can complete their coursework online with teacher support, manage their schedules more independently, and build a learning routine that fits their individual needs.
For students and parents considering the transition, understanding how online high school works can make the process feel much less overwhelming. Here’s what to expect when starting an online high school program in Ontario.
How Does Online High School Work in Ontario?
Online high school allows students to complete their courses through an online learning environment rather than attending a traditional school building every day. Students access their coursework online, complete assignments and assessments, communicate with their teachers, and work toward earning their required OSSD credits.
The exact structure can vary between schools, so families should understand how courses, teacher support, assessments, and scheduling work before enrolling.
Do Online High School Students Have Teachers?
Yes. Online learning does not mean students are learning completely on their own.
Students have access to teachers who provide instruction, feedback, clarification, and support throughout their courses. Students should also understand how and when they can communicate with their teachers before beginning their courses.
Can Students Work at Their Own Pace?
One of the reasons families consider online high school is flexibility.
Depending on the school's program and course structure, students may have more control over when and where they complete their coursework. This can be particularly helpful for student athletes, performers, students with demanding schedules, or students who need a learning environment that accommodates their individual circumstances.
Flexibility still requires responsibility. Students need to keep track of their assignments, deadlines, tests, and overall progress.
How Do Students Earn OSSD Credits Online?
Students earn OSSD credits by successfully completing approved secondary school courses and meeting the requirements that apply to their Ontario Secondary School Diploma pathway.
Before choosing courses, students should consider both their graduation requirements and their future plans. Students planning to attend college or university should also look carefully at the prerequisites required for their intended programs.
What Happens With Assignments, Tests and Exams?
Online courses still include assessments. Students may complete assignments, projects, tests, and exams as required by their course and school.
Parents and students should review the school's assessment and examination procedures before beginning a course so they understand what is expected.
Is Online High School a Good Option for Student Athletes?
It can be. Student athletes often have schedules that include practices, tournaments, travel, and competitions.
An online learning environment may give these students additional flexibility to manage their academic responsibilities around their athletic commitments while continuing to work toward their OSSD.
Can Homeschool Students Attend an Online High School?
Yes, an online high school can be an option for families looking for a structured Ontario high school program.
For a homeschool student considering an OSSD pathway, it's important to understand how previous learning and credits will be assessed and which courses are still required.
What About Students Coming From Another School?
Students do not necessarily have to start their high school education from the beginning when they move to an online school.
Their previous coursework and credits can be reviewed to determine what they have already completed and what they may still need to meet their academic goals.
This can be particularly relevant for students transferring from another Ontario high school or students changing schools during high school.
What Should Parents Expect When Their Teen Starts Online High School?
Parents can expect their student to have more independence, but that doesn't mean parents have to manage the learning process themselves.
A successful transition often involves establishing a regular study routine, understanding course expectations, keeping track of progress, and communicating with the school when questions arise.
For some students, this independence is one of the biggest adjustments when moving from a traditional classroom to online learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online high school in Ontario recognized?
Students should confirm that the school they choose is authorized to offer the courses and credentials they are seeking. Families should also understand the school's Ministry status and how its courses contribute toward the OSSD.
Can I start online high school in the middle of the school year?
In many situations, students can transition to an online high school during the school year. The school will need to review the student's academic history, current courses, and remaining requirements.
Can student athletes attend online high school?
Yes. The flexibility of online learning can make it an option for students balancing academics with demanding athletic schedules.
Can I take only certain courses online?
Depending on the school and the student's circumstances, it may be possible to complete individual courses online rather than moving an entire high school program online.
Is online high school completely self-directed?
Not necessarily. Online students are expected to take responsibility for their learning, but they can still have teacher instruction, communication, feedback, and academic support.
Starting Online High School: What Comes Next?
Starting an online high school program doesn't have to be complicated. The first step is understanding your current credits, your OSSD requirements, your future academic goals, and the type of learning environment that works best for you.
Aubrey Academy provides flexible online learning for Ontario students working toward their OSSD, with courses designed to support students with different academic goals, schedules, and learning needs.
If you're considering online high school for yourself or your teen, contact Aubrey Academy to discuss your options and determine which courses may be right for you.
10 Signs Your Teen Might Thrive in an Online High School (Ontario Parents’ Guide)
Could your teen benefit from online high school? Discover 10 signs that an online learning environment may be the right fit and learn how Aubrey Academy helps Ontario students earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with flexible, personalized education.
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.