Ontario’s education system
Ontario’s education system
Learn how Ontario’s postsecondary education system is structured and how institutions, programs and credentials fit together.
Overview of Ontario’s postsecondary system
Ontario’s publicly assisted postsecondary system includes a range of institutions and programs designed to support different learning goals, career paths and educational journeys.
The system is made up of:
Colleges
Ontario colleges offer programs that are often career-focused and emphasize applied, hands-on learning.
Colleges may offer:
- certificates
- diplomas
- advanced diplomas
- undergraduate degrees
- postgraduate certificates
- applied master’s degrees
College programs can prepare learners for the workforce, support career advancement or provide pathways into further study.
Universities
Ontario universities offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs, often with a focus on academic study, research and professional preparation.
Universities may offer:
- bachelor’s degrees
- master’s degrees
- doctoral (PhD) programs
- professional degrees
University programs may be entered directly from high school, after completing a credential at another institution, or after time in the workforce, depending on program requirements.
Indigenous Institutes
Programs are designed to lead to credentials, which are formal recognitions of learning such as certificates, diplomas or degrees.
Credentials may:
- stand alone as career-ready qualifications
- build on one another over time
- connect to further study through defined pathways or transfer assessment
Understanding credentials is also helpful when reviewing admission requirements, especially when applying with previous postsecondary education or returning after a break.
Additional requirements
While Ontario’s postsecondary system is publicly assisted, institutions operate independently and may differ in programs, admission requirements and academic policies. Each institution type plays a distinct role in Ontario’s postsecondary system and the right choice depends on your goals, interests and learning preferences. For more information, see:
- For colleges: ontariocolleges.ca
- For universities: ontariouniversitiesinfo.ca and ouac.on.ca
- For Indigenous Institutes: iicontario.ca or Ontario Institutions profiles
Information for learners who studied internationally Learn more
Applying for postsecondary education
To apply to college, university or an Indigenous Institute, learners typically need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent qualification.
If you did not complete high school, you may still qualify through alternative admission routes, such as:
- mature or adult learner admission
- academic upgrading or equivalency credentials
- relevant work or life experience (where applicable)
Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB)
Some institutions may recognize AP or IB courses for admission or credit. Recognition varies by institution and program, so it’s important to confirm details directly with the schools you’re considering.
Admission and entry points
Admission requirements vary by institution and program. Entry into postsecondary education may be based on:
- high school courses and grades
- a completed postsecondary credential
- work or life experience
- mature or adult learner admission categories
Each institution sets its own admission policies, timelines and processes.
What affects admission
Admission requirements and competitiveness vary by institution and program, and meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Admission depends on several factors:
- courses and prerequisites: programs require specific courses. For example, most Biological Science degrees need Grade 11 and 12 Biology
- course types: in Ontario, high school courses have levels (U-, M-, C-, O-). Many programs require specific courses like ENG4U or ENG4C
- grades: programs set minimum grade point averages (GPAs) and sometimes specific course grades. Meeting the minimum doesn’t guarantee admission — especially for competitive programs
- additional requirements: some programs may ask for reference letters, portfolios, performance assessments or evidence of extracurricular involvement
Admission processes can feel complex, but institutions provide detailed program information to help applicants understand expectations before applying. Always review program-specific details directly with the institution you are researching. Find more information on our institution profiles.
Learn more and explore your options
LEARN ABOUT PostSecondary Credentials in Ontario
Explore the different types of credentials offered in Ontario (certificates, diplomas, degrees) and what they mean for your education and career goals.
Learn about Mobility, pathways and transfer
Get a clear explanation of what transfer means, how transfer pathways can provide flexibility for your education plan.
learn about TRANSFERrING To and from Ontario
What to expect when you transfer to or from Ontario.
key terms
Learn important words and phrases related to mobility, transfer and policies to support your decision-making.
frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Do you have questions? Find answers about mobility, transfer pathways, credit policies and more.