Quebec students are exploring Grade 12 options

Recent language law reforms in Quebec, known as Bill 96 (Law 14), have been implemented to safeguard the French language. These reforms bring about new restrictions and curriculum changes for English language CEGEPs. Notably, the enrollment of English CEGEP students will be limited to a maximum of 17.5% of the entire CEGEP network. Starting in 2024, English CEGEP students will be required to take five courses in French. Students with a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) have the option to take all five credits as French as a Second Language courses or mix regular courses in French. On the other hand, students without a COE must choose a combination of French as a second language and regular classes in French. Additionally, students without a COE must pass an exam in French called Épreuves uniformes en langue d’enseignement et littérature (ÉULEL) in order to graduate, a requirement also applicable to French CEGEP students.

Prior to Bill 96, language laws only affected students from kindergarten to grade 11. Students with a COE have the choice to be educated in English or French, while those without a COE have no choice. They are educated in French. After graduating from Secondary V, Allophones, Anglophones, and Francophones were eligible to apply to any Quebec CEGEP. While the majority of Francophones opt for French CEGEPs, a significant number chose English CEGEPs to enhance their English skills or to be better prepared to attend an English university in Quebec or elsewhere. However, as of Fall 2024, admission to an English CEGEP will be restricted to a total of no more than 17.5% of the entire CEGEP population. Dawson College for instance, has an enrollment limit of 7,915 students. Given the cap limit and the fact that English CEGEPS will give priority to CEO holders, there will be fewer positions available to francophones and allophones interested in attending English CEGEP.

Dissatisfied with the curriculum change that requires 5 additional French courses, and the cap limit on English CEGEPs, students and families have been seeking alternative post Secondary V options. Since July 2023, SchoolAdvice has received an overwhelming number of calls and emails from Quebec families inquiring about Grade 12. A growing number of English private schools now offer Grade 12 as a pre-university alternative, effectively bypassing the need for CEGEP attendance. While this option is viable, it may not be affordable for many families as it ranges from $20,000 to $28,000, and availability is limited. These Grade 12 programs are truly independent private schools that do not accept the Quebec government grant, allowing them to admit students with or without a COE.

SchoolAdvice recommends a more affordable option for families and students: the program offered by Virtual High School in Bayfield, Ontario. This school is registered with the Ontario Ministry of Education as both a primary and secondary school. It is renowned for its innovative online learning programs and has even licensed its Grade 12 program to some Quebec private schools. The cost of courses ranges from $600 to $850, and completing a Grade 12 program typically requires 8 to 12 courses, depending on the students’ credit transcripts earned at the end of Secondary V in Quebec.

ONE – EXPANDING CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:

By pursuing online Ontario Grade 12, Quebec students can enhance their English language skills and increase their competitiveness in the job market. Fluency in English opens doors to a broader range of career opportunities, both locally and internationally. Many high-demand professions require strong English proficiency, and having a solid foundation in English at the post-secondary level can significantly boost employability.

TWO – PREPARATION FOR ENGLISH-SPEAKING POST-SECONDARY INSTITUTIONS

Quebec Allophone and Francophone students who wish to improve their English skills in advance of applying to English-speaking universities inside or outside of Quebec can benefit from the online Ontario Grade 12 program.  A required English Literacy test, administered by the Ontario Ministry of Education provides students with a valid testament to their English skills.

THREE – ENHANCED ACADEMIC FLEXIBILITY:

Online education provides students with the flexibility to customize their learning experience. This is particularly beneficial for Quebec students who want to access English post-secondary education. They can choose subjects and courses aligned with their academic interests and career goals that may not be available in their local curriculum. The flexibility of online learning allows students to explore various subjects that might not otherwise be accessible in traditional classroom settings.

FOUR – CONVENIENT AND COST EFFECTIVE:

Online Ontario Grade 12 options offer convenience and cost-effectiveness to Quebec students. By studying online, students can avoid the need to relocate to pursue their education. This eliminates the additional costs associated with housing, transportation, and living expenses. Online courses are often more affordable than traditional in-person programs, making them a viable option for students seeking English post-secondary education.

FIVE – DIVERSE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT:

Engaging with online Ontario Grade 12 courses gives Quebec students the opportunity to interact with a diverse learning community. Interacting with students from across Ontario provides a multicultural experience that promotes cultural understanding and appreciation. This exposure to different perspectives and backgrounds can broaden students’ horizons and prepare them for the multicultural environment they may encounter in their future academic and professional endeavors.

SIX – GREAT ALTERNATIVE FOR MATURE STUDENTS:

Are you considering returning to school? Do you need additional credits to apply to University and don’t want to deal with CEGEP? Online Grade 12 is an ideal solution. Complete your Grade 12 OSSD while you continue your part time or full time job.

Register today and start next week! SchoolAdvice rolling admissions offers an online facilitated Grade 12 program for students in the Greater Montreal area. SchoolAdvice educators help you register, assist with program and profile selection, and determine credit equivalency.