High school students outside Canada who want to attend a Canadian college or university face several challenges, including finding accredited prerequisite courses, personalized academic guidance, and a schedule that accommodates their existing studies and daily routines. Or, at least, they used to.
Ontario Virtual School (OVS), understanding these challenges, offers a Dual Diploma Program. This program allows students outside of Canada to take accredited courses online, get credit for courses completed in their home schools, and earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) alongside a diploma from their home school. It also provides dedicated academic advisors to help international students navigate the Canadian post-secondary landscape with ease.
Dedicated Academic Advisors and Flexible Course Schedules
From the moment a student enrolls, they are assigned an academic advisor who assists with course selection, ensures that their chosen subjects align with their university and career goals, and helps them track their progress toward earning the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). These advisors provide ongoing support, answering questions about assignments, deadlines, and university preparation.
Additionally, OVS’s self-paced model allows students to complete their courses at a speed that fits their personal schedules. Unlike traditional schools that follow a fixed academic calendar, OVS operates on a rolling enrollment system, meaning students can begin their courses at any time of the year. Moreover, courses can be completed in as little as 4 weeks. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for international students balancing their local curriculum with their OSSD studies, as it enables them to work at their own pace without feeling overwhelmed by rigid deadlines.
By offering individualized academic support and a learning structure that adapts to each student’s unique needs, OVS ensures that students worldwide can pursue a Canadian education without disrupting their existing studies or commitments.
Access to Certified Canadian Teachers and Personalized Feedback
A major concern for students studying online is whether they will receive the same level of instruction and support as they would in a traditional classroom. At OVS, students benefit from learning under the guidance of certified Ontario teachers who provide expert instruction and personalized feedback throughout their courses.
Unlike many online programs that rely on automated grading or generic feedback, OVS teachers actively engage with students, offering detailed evaluations of assignments, constructive criticism, and tailored advice to help students improve their academic performance. Through written feedback, video explanations, and one-on-one support, teachers ensure that students fully grasp course material and develop essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication.
Furthermore, students have the flexibility to reach out to their teachers at any time for clarification or additional support. This accessibility creates an interactive and engaging online learning experience, allowing students to feel connected to their instructors despite studying from different parts of the world.
With access to dedicated teachers and personalized feedback, OVS students receive a high-quality education that mirrors the experience of a traditional classroom while enjoying the added benefits of online learning.
Resources for University & College Preparation
Recognizing that many international students aim to pursue higher education in Canada or other top global institutions, OVS goes beyond standard academic instruction to offer tailored resources that help students navigate the complex university application process with confidence.
Personalized Academic Guidance
OVS provides individualized academic counselling to help students select the right courses that align with their university goals. Whether a student aspires to study engineering, business, health sciences, or the arts, OVS advisors guide them in meeting specific prerequisites required by universities worldwide. This ensures that students are not only meeting the OSSD requirements but also strategically preparing for competitive post-secondary programs.
University Application Support
Applying to universities, especially abroad, can be overwhelming. OVS helps ease this process by offering expert advice on crafting strong applications. Students receive guidance on writing compelling personal statements, preparing academic resumes, and securing effective letters of recommendation. Additionally, OVS assists with navigating platforms like the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), which streamlines the application process for Canadian institutions.
Pathway Partnerships and University Connections
OVS’s strong relationships with Canadian and international universities provide students with valuable insights into post-secondary options. In some cases, OVS students may benefit from pathway agreements or receive preferential consideration through established partnerships. Regular webinars, virtual university fairs, and Q&A sessions with admissions representatives further enhance students’ understanding of their options and expectations.
Preparation for Standardized Tests and Language Proficiency Requirements
For students applying to English-speaking universities, OVS offers resources to prepare for standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, or English proficiency exams like IELTS and TOEFL. OVS’s English courses also focus on developing academic writing and communication skills, ensuring students are well-equipped for university-level coursework.
Through these targeted resources, OVS empowers students to not only earn their OSSD but also to confidently take the next step toward their academic and career aspirations, equipped with the knowledge and support needed to succeed in the global education landscape.