Self-paced online courses offer a great deal of flexibility, which can be both a blessing and a challenge. On one hand, you have the freedom to strategically plan and complete assignments, tests, and exams at a time that suits you best. Ideally, you should only schedule or take an assessment when you feel fully prepared and confident in your ability to perform well. On the other hand, this independence requires strong time management skills, and without regular commitment, many students fall behind or struggle to retain the material needed to achieve high grades.

At Royal Ontario Academy, we strongly recommend setting a clear course completion date right from the start. While you have a full 12 months to complete your course, we believe consistent engagement with the material is essential for deep learning. For example, if you set aside two evenings a week for a couple of hours each, you’ll create a steady and manageable routine that allows you to progress through the course and complete it within 4-6 months, depending on your learning pace.

Commit to Regular Study

The key to success in online learning is regularity. Without the structure of an in-person classroom, it can be easy to skip weeks or lose focus. To avoid this, establish a study schedule and stick to it. This ensures you stay on track and continue building on what you’ve learned. A steady pace not only improves retention but also reduces the stress that often comes from last-minute cramming.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Many students completing their OSSD credits online are aiming for high grades. Whether online or in-person, getting extra help can make all the difference. Online learning often involves a great deal of independent study, and relying solely on your own ability to grasp every concept can be risky. We encourage you to consider tutoring services to provide that extra support needed to excel. At Royal Ontario Academy, we offer live tutoring from certified teachers for an additional fee, ensuring personalized guidance for those tricky subjects.

It’s important to remember that while tutors can help you master the material, assessments such as final exams are proctored, and no outside assistance is allowed during these assessments.

Seek Support After a Setback

If you find that you haven’t done as well as you hoped on an assignment, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. At Royal Ontario Academy, we believe in second chances for students who are genuinely trying their best. If you’ve experienced a setback, you can reach out to the Principal to discuss possible options for retaking an assignment or being assessed through an alternative task. However, to be considered for a second chance, you need to explain the reasons for your initial performance and outline the steps you’ll take to improve in the future.

Ultimately, the decision rests with the Principal, but we always strive for mastery of course concepts, as our main goal is to ensure students fully understand the material.

Prioritizing Mental Health

At Royal Ontario Academy, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes affect academic performance. We are here to support your academic journey, but your mental health and well-being are just as important. If you’re struggling with life events or stress, we encourage open communication. Balancing academics with personal well-being is key to long-term success, and we are committed to offering guidance and support to help you thrive.

In conclusion, achieving a high grade in online OSSD courses is entirely possible with regular study, proactive communication, and the willingness to seek help when needed. At Royal Ontario Academy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.