What if I fail the OSSLT twice, are there other options?

The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) is one of the 32 requirements for earning an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Successfully completing the OSSLT demonstrates that a student meets the provincial literacy standards. Below is a guide tailored for Chinese students studying through Ways Ivy Academy’s online courses:

 Retaking the OSSLT

Students who fail the OSSLT can retake it during the next administration period determined by the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO). Students typically have unlimited opportunities to retake the test. If you have an Individual Education Plan (IEP), you are entitled to accommodations specified in your IEP during the test. For instance, English language learners may be eligible for extended time or translation assistance.

 Enrolling in the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC)

If you have attempted the OSSLT twice and failed at least once, you become eligible to enroll in the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC). Principals may also permit enrollment in the OSSLC before a second attempt if they deem it in the student’s best interest. Mature students (18 years or older) can directly enroll in the OSSLC without first attempting the OSSLT.

The OSSLC is a Grade 12 English course designed to help students acquire the literacy skills required for graduation. Upon successfully completing the course, you will fulfill the literacy graduation requirement. The credit earned from the OSSLC can also be used to satisfy the Grade 11 or Grade 12 compulsory English credit requirement or the Group 1 compulsory credit requirement for the OSSD. Accommodations (not modifications) will be provided for students with special education needs as outlined in their IEPs.

 Special Cases: Adjudication Process

If you have an IEP that documents accommodations required during the OSSLT administration but those accommodations were unavailable during part or all of the test, you may be eligible for the adjudication process established by your school board. To qualify, you must have been present to take the test but lacked the necessary accommodations or a reasonable alternative.

 Other Considerations

   Communication with School: If you fail the OSSLT twice, promptly discuss your situation with your school principal or guidance counselor. They can provide personalized advice and support to help you choose the most suitable pathway.

Utilizing Learning Resources: Leverage various learning resources to improve your literacy skills. For example,  EQAO’s website also provides OSSLT practice tests and study materials.

Seeking Tutoring Services: Consider enrolling in tutoring programs. Tutor STEM, for instance, offers one-on-one tutoring, group sessions, and virtual learning options led by Ontario Certified Teachers to help students build exam strategies, time management skills, and academic confidence.

The OSSLT assesses literacy skills expected to be acquired up to the end of Grade 9. Its purpose is to ensure students possess the reading and writing abilities needed for success in school, work, and daily life. Even if you fail the OSSLT twice, there are alternative pathways to meet the literacy graduation requirement. With proper preparation and support, you can still obtain the OSSD.