PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition)

Interested in completing your high school diploma? You may be closer than you think!

 

The number of credits you require for your diploma depends on your age, your past education and employment, and other prior learning experiences.

An Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) requires 30 secondary school credits which includes some mandatory credits.

If you started secondary school prior to 1984, you may be eligible for the Secondary School Graduation Diploma (SSGD) which requires 27 credits.

What is Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) for Mature Students?

PLAR for mature students is the formal evaluation and credit-granting process whereby mature students may obtain secondary credits for prior learning. These credits can be applied towards earning an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). In some cases, applicants may be eligible for up to 26 of the 30 credits required.

The goal of PLAR is help mature students move faster and remove barriers to achieve an OSSD and move forward to sustainable employment, postsecondary education, and apprenticeship.

An Ontario Secondary School Diploma requires 30 total credits

Up to 26 of the 30 credits may be earned through PLAR for Mature Students 

16 (9/10 PLE) + 10 (SR EQV credits) = 26 + (Final 4 SR credits post maturity) = 30

Up to 16 Grade 9 and 10 credits

can be earned through assessments or by taking the course

Up to 10 Grade 11 and 12 credits

can be earned through the equivalency process, or by taking the course

Final 4 senior credits

must be earned by taking the course.

Who is a mature student?

A mature student is a student who is at least 18 years of age on or after January 1st of the current school year and who is enrolled in program for the purpose of obtaining an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

Is there a cost for PLAR?

PLAR is free for residents of Ontario and for those who meet one of the following criteria:

  • refugee claimant

  • permanent resident

  • Convention refugee

  • Canadian citizen

For more information, contact us.

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