October 28th, 2026

This November, Grade 10 students enrolled in English during Semester 1 at Bluevale Collegiate Institute (BCI) will write the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) during their regularly scheduled English classes.

Students who were previously unsuccessful, enrolled in e-learning, or did not have an opportunity to write the test in Grade 10 last year will also have an opportunity to complete the assessment this fall.

Successful completion of the literacy requirement is necessary to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

Grade 10 students enrolled in Semester 2 English will write in the Spring of 2027.

Important Dates

To help students feel confident and prepared, BCI will provide opportunities to become familiar with the test format, practise using their Chromebooks, and access additional support.

  • November 4 & 5 – OSSLT Orientation: Students will learn how to access and navigate the literacy test using their Chromebooks during their English classes.
  • November 10 – Optional Lunch & Learn: Students who have questions or would like additional support are invited to attend a drop-in session in the library during lunch.
  • November 11 & 13 – Practice Test: Students will complete an OSSLT practice test during their regularly scheduled English classes in Blocks A, B, C, and D. Instructions will be shared in class.

OSSLT Test Dates

Students will write the OSSLT in their English classrooms during their regularly scheduled English blocks on the following dates:

Date Students Writing
Tuesday, November 17 Session 1 – English Blocks A, B and C

Wednesday, November 18

Session 2 – English Blocks A, B and C
Monday, November 23 Session 1 – English Block D
Tuesday, November 24 Session 2 – English Block D

Students in Block D will write on November 23 and 24 to accommodate the school’s flip schedule and ensure sufficient time to complete the assessment.

How Can I Help My Student Prepare for the OSSLT?

Before the Test

  • Encourage your student to participate in the preparation activities offered at school.
  • Encourage your student to attend the optional Lunch & Learn session if they have questions or would benefit from additional support.
  • Encourage your student to review the test format and tools available through the EQAO OSSLT practice test.
  • Students eligible for special education accommodations will be contacted by the Special Education Department in advance of the test.

On Test Days

  • Remind your student to arrive on time for their scheduled English class.
  • Ensure your student brings a fully charged Chromebook.
  • Encourage your student to use the time available, carefully read each question, and review their answers before submitting.
  • Each test session is designed to take approximately 60–75 minutes, but students may use up to 150 minutes to complete each session.
  • Students may wish to bring a mouse or headphones. Earbuds can be provided at BCI if needed.
  • Encourage your student to do their best.
  • Remind your student to bring a book or asynchronous work to occupy any remaining time.

Additional Information

Parents, guardians, caregivers, and students interested in learning more about the OSSLT are encouraged to visit the EQAO Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test website.

If you have any further questions, please contact your student’s guidance counsellor or vice-principal.