About College

College can be a great option for students who want to develop practical skills, gain hands-on experience and prepare for a specific career or industry.

Ontario colleges offer hundreds of programs across a wide range of fields, including business, health care, technology, skilled trades, hospitality, community services, media, engineering and more.

As you explore your options, think about your interests, strengths and future goals, and research programs that align with your pathway plans.

What Is College?

College programs are designed to prepare students for work in a specific field or profession. Many programs combine classroom learning with hands-on experiences such as labs, field placements, clinical experiences, co-op opportunities or applied projects.

Depending on the program, students may graduate with a:

• Certificate
• Diploma
• Advanced Diploma
• Bachelor's Degree
• Graduate Certificate (typically completed after another post-secondary credential)

Program lengths vary from a few months to four years or more.

Do Your Research

Explore Programs that Interest You

Ontario colleges offer programs in many areas. Visit Ontario Colleges to explore available programs across Ontario.

When researching programs, consider:

• admission requirements, including required Grade 11 and 12 courses
• program content, courses and length
• co-op, internship or placement opportunities
• campus location
• student supports and services
• residence and housing options
• tuition and other costs

Creating a shortlist of programs can help you compare your options and make informed decisions.

Attend Open Houses and Events

One of the best ways to learn about a college is to visit. Many colleges offer open houses, campus tours and information sessions.  These experiences can help you learn more about programs, student life and campus supports, and give you a chance to ask questions. Visit:

• the annual Ontario College fair
• post-secondary fairs held at YRDSB secondary schools
• college websites or listings of college events 

Review Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by program and institution. Many college programs require:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
• Grade 12 English
• Additional prerequisite courses for specific programs
• College preparation high school courses (C) and will accept university (U), university/college (M) and open (O) courses

Some competitive programs may have higher admission requirements or limited enrolment.

Always check the college website for the most current admission requirements and program details. If you need help with your research, please make an appointment to see your Guidance Counsellor.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

If your first language is not English, you may be required to write an English language proficiency test as one of the requirements for admission to an Ontario college. Check the college websites for information on English Language Requirements specific to your college or university. 

The most common tests are TOEFL - the Test of English as a Foreign Language and Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).

Explore Options

Many colleges offer pathways that can help students continue their education. These may include:

• College degree programs
• Joint college-university programs
• Degree completion opportunities
• Transfer pathways to university

Students can often build on their education over time as their interests and goals evolve.

Learn more through Ontario's Transfer and Pathway Guide.