Prior Learning Assessement and Recognition

What is PLAR?

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) is the formal evaluation and credit-granting process through which mature students may obtain credits for prior learning - the knowledge and skills that adults have acquired, in both formal and informal ways, outside secondary school.

For more information and details about how to apply, contact the guidance counsellor.

The PLAR process for mature students involves three procedures:

a) "individual assessment / equivalency" (Gr. 9 / 10);

b) "equivalency" (Gr. 11 / 12);

c) "challenge" (Gr. 11 / 12).

There is no charge for mature students to participate in the PLAR process.

Who is a Mature Student?

A mature student is a student who is:

a) at least 18 years old on or before December 31 of the school year;

b) is enrolled in a secondary school credit program for the purpose of obtaining an OSSD;

c) has been out of school for a period of at least one year before returning as an adult.

Who participates in PLAR?

Mature students who are new to the Ontario secondary school system as of February 1, 2004, and who are working towards the Ontario Secondary School Diploma(OSSD)under OSS diploma requirements.

Mature students who were enrolled as students in the Ontario secondary school system, and were placed in Gr. 9 in 1999 or later.

Note: Mature students who were enrolled in the Ontario secondary school system prior to 1999 and who continue to work towards their OSSD under OSIS or HS1 diploma requirements do not have to participate in the PLAR process.

Note: Mature students working towards OSS diploma requirements must successfully complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test process and the community involvement activities process in order to graduate.