February 23rd, 2026
Information Regarding the 2026 Spring Writing of the Literacy Test for BCI Students
On March 25 & 26 during period A all Grade 10 students will write the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) during the spring administration. We are setting these times so all students have 150 minutes of writing time if needed. Students must successfully complete this literacy requirement for the granting of their Ontario Secondary School Diploma.
Key Dates to Note:
- March 9-13 Period A- Practice test
- March 11-12 Lunch and Learn
- March 25 Literacy Test Day (session 1) in period A
- March 26 Literacy Test Day (session 2) in period A
How can I help my student prepare for the OSSLT?
Before the Test
- Encourage your student to participate in preparation offered by the school.
- Encourage your student to review the format and tools available by previewing the practice test
- Encourage your student to try the practice test which will be found at HERE.
- Students eligible for special accommodations will be contacted by the Special Education Department in advance of the test.
The Day of the Test
- Remind your student to be on time to their Period A class.
- Ensure your student has a fully charged Chromebook.
- Encourage your student to take the full amount of allotted time. Each booklet is designed to take 60-75 minutes, but students are allowed to use up to 150 minutes to complete each booklet. They will be given another space to continue to write.
- Encourage students to reread and check their work.
- Some students may want to bring a mouse.
- Encourage students to do their best.
- Remind students to bring a book or asynchronous work to occupy their left over time.
Parents and students interested in learning more about the OSSLT are invited to visit the EQAO website at https://www.eqao.com/the-assessments/osslt/. If you have any further questions please contact your guidance counsellor or vice principal.
