What is Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) for International Students?

International students who have previously completed high school courses may be eligible for PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition) credits, an option that can significantly reduce the number of courses needed to earn the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

At Royal Ontario Academy (ROA), PLAR helps students avoid “starting over” by building on the progress they’ve already made.

What is PLAR?

PLAR is an evaluation process that assesses a student’s prior education and grants equivalent Ontario high school credits for courses they have already completed in their home country.

In other words, if you’ve already learned it and can demonstrate it through your academic record, PLAR may allow those achievements to count toward your OSSD pathway.

How PLAR Works for International Students at ROA:

Transcript Evaluation

Students submit official academic transcripts from their home country.

Course Matching

Our Principal reviews prior coursework and determines Ontario equivalent credits.

Credit Allocation

Students are awarded Ontario high school credits based on the subjects they have already completed.

Remaining Course Selection

Students complete only the remaining required Ontario credits to qualify for the OSSD.

What ROA Can Recognize Through PLAR

Through Royal Ontario Academy, students can receive recognition for many completed courses:

• Grade 9, 10, and 11 courses can be evaluated and recognized toward OSSD requirements.
• Students may be able to transfer up to 22 credits, while completing 8 additional credits at ROA to obtain the OSSD.
• Students must also complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC).
• Students must also fulfill 40 hours of community involvement (volunteering) to graduate and earn their OSSD.

Examples

A student who has completed Grades 9 and 10 in their home country may only need to complete Grade 11 and 12 Ontario courses to earn their OSSD.

A student who has completed high school but does not yet meet Canadian university entrance requirements may only need to take specific Grade 12 prerequisite courses.

Support for International Students at ROA

At ROA, we support students throughout the process with:

• PLAR Credit Assessments to help maximize prior learning and reduce course load.
• Academic Advising for course selection and graduation planning.
• University and College Application Support (applications, transcripts, recommendation letters).
• Flexible Scheduling so students can learn at their own pace.
• Ongoing Communication with regular check-ins for progress tracking.

Contact us today to learn more about PLAR: info@royalontarioacademy.com

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Through Royal Ontario Academy, students can receive recognition for many completed courses:

Grade 9, 10, and 11 courses can be evaluated and recognized toward OSSD requirements.

Students may be able to transfer up to 22 credits, while completing 8 additional credits at ROA to obtain the OSSD.

Students must also complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC).

Students must also fulfill 40 hours of community involvement (volunteering) to graduate and earn their OSSD.

FAQ:

What does PLAR mean?

PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition) in Ontario lets eligible students earn OSSD credits based on previous learning—through equivalency (credit review) or challenge for credit—so you don’t repeat what you already know.

Learn more about how international students and mature students can receive course credits for previous study or work experience at www.royalontarioacademy.com/PLAR