Welcome to the College Pathways page.  Here, you’ll find plenty of information, links and resources to help you research Ontario colleges and navigate the steps necessary to apply.

GENERAL INFORMATION

IMPORTANT – EQUAL CONSIDERATION DEADLINE FOR COMPETITIVE PROGRAMS:
FEBRUARY 1st

 Refer to the Ontario Colleges Applicant Checklist!

Register online at www.ontariocolleges.ca. The online application for programs beginning next fall will be available to applicants on September 28th, 2024.

You will need your school OEN number (found on your report card or in SchoolDay) – this is different from your LHSS student ID number.

  • Submit non-refundable payment of $150:
  • List program selections in order of preference
  • You can select up to five choices, but no more than 3 at one college
  • Use the same site to apply to ALL college programs (diploma, certificate, degree)
  • Print a copy for your records
  • Once you have applied online you can still go back to change your choices up to the application deadline (Feb. 1st, 2025)
  • A transcript of all your marks will be sent to the colleges by the high school (along with updates at each mark reporting cycle)

Once you apply you will receive a confirmation emails from the colleges. Make sure you attend any info sessions or portfolio interviews and complete all questionnaires when applicable.

Research OSAP and complete application on line after receiving and confirming acceptance of offer of admission.

IS COLLEGE RIGHT FOR ME?

When deciding on possible post-secondary pathways, you need to determine which choice best fits your personal goals.  Colleges offer many exciting career-specific programs worth exploring, with most offering genuine hands-on, practical experience to prepare you for the “real world.”  If you already have a clear career focus, college may be for you!
Check out the video below if you’re thinking about college as a potential post-secondary pathway.

 WHAT DO I NEED TO APPLY?

Admission requirements for Ontario colleges are quite different from universities.  While Ontario universities all require 6 grade 12 4U/M credits to apply, colleges vary significantly from school to school and program to program.  Typically, you need an Ontario high school diploma (OSSD) or equivalent to apply (or mature student status).Since colleges offer a range of program options (certificate, diploma, degree, apprenticeships), it is very important to research the detailed requirements for the program you’re interested in.

In some cases, a program may require specific high school credits (ex. ENG4CI or MAP4CI) or other acceptable post-secondary upgrade courses.  You may also have to complete tests, essays or interviews or submit portfolios of work. Take the time to contact the colleges to find out what you need – CLICK HERE TO VIEW CONTACT INFO!

Most college websites offer excellent information to help you determine what’s required to apply.  Highly competitive programs have even more rigorous requirements.  Check out the Ontario Colleges information page HERE to help you with this process and make sure to check the specifics for your potential program.As part of your research, consider visiting the schools you’re interested in to make sure they’re a good fit for you!  Remember – you may be committing one to four years of your life to a college, so choose the one that best suits your interests, goals and personality.

HELPFUL TIP:

Many colleges host open-houses in the fall and spring or you can contact the schools for a personal tour.  Also check with your school’s guidance department to see if it’s hosting a college information fair.

 HOW DO I APPLY?

The application process to apply to college is fairly straight-forward.  Check out the Ontario Colleges video below for the basic steps required.  Here are a few key points to get you started:

  • APPLICATION FEE – $150 (non-refundable – have a payment method handy when registering online)
  • Application fee gives you up to 5 programs choices (max. 3 at any one college) and all programs must be in the same academic year (August to July)
  • List choices in order of preference (especially if applying to multiple programs at the same college)
  • If you are currently enrolled at a high school in Ontario, your marks will automatically be uploaded to OCAS for you – no need to order transcripts from your school!

Visit the Ontario Colleges “HOW TO APPLY” page here for more info!

 HOW DO I PAY FOR COLLEGE?

Compared to average tuition of over $9,000 for a regular program at an Ontario university in 2024, college students could save thousands in tuition costs over a few years of study.

To help you cover some of the costs of your college program, make sure you research available bursaries, scholarships and awards at the colleges you’re considering.

You can also apply for OSAP (student loans) or up to 30% tuition grant (money you don’t have to pay back).

Be aware that you can’t apply for financial assistance until you’ve committed to a specific college.  Make sure you apply early to guarantee you’ll receive the maximum amount you’re eligible for.

Check out ONTARIO COLLEGES helpful page on paying for college, with links to bursaries, OSAP, student budgeting and more.