Education & Employment How do I finish high school?

How do I finish high school?

Can I get high school credits for my life experiences?

Many schools offer ‘life experience’ credits that recognize activities beyond traditional classes. This means you can be creative about achieving the credits you need to graduate. If you’re interested, ask the guidance counsellor at your school for more information.

Please note: ‘Life experience’ credits may affect your eligibility for post-secondary school. Speak with your school’s guidance counsellor to explore if this option is right for you.

What options do I have to finish high school?

Before completing high school, you can decide if you want to pursue post-secondary education (like college or university) or if you just want to get your high school diploma.

Finishing High School

If your goal is to finish high school and you’re 19 years old or younger, you have options:

Mainstream School

You would choose this school based on where you live, course availability (do they offer the courses you need?), and if you prefer virtual or in-person learning. Attending a mainstream school will depend on where you are in your high school journey.

Send an email to the Education Liaison that can support you to get started.

Alternative School

These programs have required attendance but allow you to rejoin the program in the future if you don’t meet the attendance requirements. Alternative schools also offer independent learning opportunities.

See a list of alternative schools in Ottawa, their area, and contact information.

Students of these programs need to be very independent, but there is help available. Send an email and request a tutor.

If your goal is to finish high school and you’re over 19 years old you can attend adult education:

Adult Education

See a list of adult education schools in Ottawa, their area, and contact information.

Consider your preferences and circumstances to figure out the best path for you to complete high school. If you need guidance or support along the way, there are lots of resources available to you, don’t hesitate to ask for help!

Pursuing Post-Secondary Education

If you want to finish high school with the goal of attending a post-secondary institute (like college or university), make sure you tell your teachers and guidance counsellors that this is your goal. They can help make sure that you’re getting the credits you need. Send an email to get help finishing high school to attend post-secondary.

Don’t know if you have the right courses or grades to attend college or university? Read about the Bridge Programs offered by Colleges and Universities on Ottawa.