Adult Education/PLAR
Complete your Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD—your way!)
Welcome to CDSBEO Adult Education
Welcome to CDSBEO Adult Education
We believe every learner deserves a pathway to success. Our Adult Education programs provide flexible options for earning your OSSD, upgrading skills, and preparing for future opportunities. Through PLAR, you can receive credit for the knowledge and skills you’ve gained through life and work experience. PLAR allows you to earn up to 26 high school credits for what you already know—through work, parenting, volunteering, or other life experiences.
What is PLAR?
mPLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition for Mature students) allows adult learners (those turning 18 before the end of the school year) to earn high school credits for what they already know. Your experience matters—whether it comes from employment, parenting, volunteering, or other life roles.
You can earn up to 26 credits toward your diploma. Credits are based on demonstrated knowledge and skills aligned with Ontario curriculum expectations.
Who is Eligible?
To participate in PLAR, you must be 18 years of age or older by August of the current school year. You must also be working toward your Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). This means you need to be enrolled in a course, submitting assignments, and passing the course to be eligible.
How Does mPLAR Work?
mPLAR assessments recognize both junior (Grades 9–10) and senior (Grades 11–12) level learning:
Junior credits are earned through written assessments or demonstrations of knowledge. These assessments are proctored by St. James staff.
Senior credits are based on life experience and self-assessment. For example, if you have parenting experience, you may qualify for a Parenting course credit without taking the full course. Assessment packages will be provided for you to complete on your own.
Students enrolled in a course will be contacted after midterm reports (November and April) to complete PLAR assessments. All PLAR assessments must be completed before January and June.
Why Choose PLAR?
PLAR helps you save time by earning credits faster and reducing the number of courses you need. It’s a personalized approach—your experience counts toward your diploma.
How to Apply
- Complete the PLAR Application Form (See below for the links to the applications).
- Submit required documentation (proof of age, prior learning details).
- Meet with an advisor to plan your pathway.
Need Support?
We offer academic guidance and accessibility accommodations to help you succeed.
Students enrolled in a CDSBEO Day School who are interested in seeing if they are eligible for PLAR are encouraged to make an appointment with their guidance counsellor.
Contact Us
For more information or to start your PLAR application:
📞 Phone:613-284-2613 ext 2
📧 Email: [email protected]