Adult Education

In the modern economy, learning is a lifelong process. Ontario offers many opportunities for adults to improve their skills and education.

This section takes you to information on how you can upgrade your job skills, get language training for specific jobs, earn your high school diploma as an adult, and apply for postsecondary studies as an adult.

Upgrading Your Skills

Employment and Training in Ontario

Getting Licensed provides information to newcomers about getting licensed to work in the jobs in which they’ve been trained.

Did you know?

Many secondary schools in Ontario offer continuing education courses for adults. Find the local school board in your community to see what courses are available for adults.

Going back to school

Learn about how to attend a college or a university as a mature student. To read more, select your language from the drop-down menu above. Information provided by Settlement.org

ONTARIO IMMIGRATION

General Information and Articles about Adult Education

Adult education for newcomers

Adult Learning

High School for Adults

Getting a high school diploma as an adult

Going back to school

Learn about how to attend a college or a university as a mature student. To read more, select your language from the drop-down menu above. Information provided by Settlement.org

Courses for adults that are offered by the Independent Learning Centres

High school equivalency exams recognized over North America

Application for the high school equivalency exam (PDF)

Post-secondary Education for Adults (Continuing Education)

List of schools that offer distance education (learning online)

If I am an international student, what are my employment options?

There are employment opportunities for international students while studying in Canada. Certain students are eligible to work in their field of study for up to two years after graduating. Eligible students must apply to Citizenship and Immigration Canada for a work permit. Please note that you need a social insurance number to work in Canada.
Are international students eligible for loans and bursaries?

International students are not eligible to receive financial support from the Ontario Student Assistance Program. However, each post-secondary institution has its own financial assistance plan for international students. Contact the financial aid office of Ontario's universities and community colleges.
How can I get my international credentials assessed?

Read about academic credential assessment services on our site for information and contacts.
If I am an adult, what education programs are available?

Adults who want to earn a high school diploma in Ontario may do so by attending classes through local school boards. Adults may also earn a high school diploma by studying at home through the Ontario Government's Independent Learning Centre. Universities and community colleges accept mature post-secondary students and will often offer continuing education programs.
Where can I get information about Ontario's universities and colleges?

The Ministy of Training, Colleges and Universities gives you information about about Ontario's universities, community colleges, student financial assistance plans and post-secondary education in Ontario.
How long does it take to process my application to study in Ontario?

Application processing times vary. You can check your application status online for process updates.
What are the costs for processing international student applications?

Refer to the fee schedule for citizenship and immigration services. You can also calculate your total application fees using this tool.
What should I do if I want to study in Ontario?

Get some information on coming to Canada to study and about studying in Ontario. Please note that universities and community colleges have their own admission requirements for international students. Contact the university or the college that interests you to get more information.
Are refugees eligible for OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program)?

You could be eligible to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) if you meet the eligibility conditions.
Where can I learn about Ontario's education system?

Find information about the school system and academic programs in Ontario.