Free Grade 12 Equivalent Courses | Top 5 Reasons to Choose Durham College Posted on July 9, 2025 at 9:00 am. Still need Grade 12 credits to qualify for college or an apprenticeship? You’re not alone. Many adult learners find themselves needing those final high school credits to move forward with their career goals. The good news is you don’t need to return to high school or pay expensive private school fees to get there. Durham College’s Academic Upgrading program offers FREE Grade 12 equivalent courses that are fully funded by Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). These courses are designed for adult learners like you who want to take the next step in their education or career journey. In this article, we’ll show you the five biggest reasons why Durham College’s free grade 12 equivalent courses might be exactly what you need to move forward. Reason #1 – No-Cost, High-Value Education Imagine getting the education you need without the financial stress. Most adult learners are surprised to learn just how expensive academic upgrading can be through traditional routes. Private schools and some continuing education programs charge anywhere from $700 to $1,200 per course, costs that can be a significant barrier when you’re working toward college admission requirements. At Durham College, our Academic Upgrading program eliminates this financial barrier completely. Every course is 100% tuition-free thanks to Employment Ontario funding. Whether you’re working toward college admission requirements or pursuing an ACE Certificate (which some employers and apprenticeship programs recognize as equivalent to an OSSD), you can focus on learning rather than worrying about how to pay for your education. Even better, qualified students may also receive additional financial support for daycare and transportation costs through our Training and Support Allowance Funds (while funding is available). Reason #2 – Meet College & Apprenticeship Admission Requirements Faster Don’t put your future on hold any longer. As a prerequisite, many Ontario colleges and trade unions require Grade 12 English or Math for program admission, but returning to traditional high school can add years to your career timeline. Durham College’s Academic Upgrading program offers a faster, more efficient path forward with courses specifically designed for adult learners. Our Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) Communications and ACE Apprenticeship Math courses provide the Grade 12 equivalency credentials needed for Mathematics and English. They’re recognized by all Ontario colleges and many apprenticeship programs throughout the province. Instead of fitting into a high school schedule designed for teenagers, you’ll complete your ACE certificate requirements in an environment built for adults. Best of all, once you’ve completed your required credits and are ready to apply to college programs, our Student Advisors will guide you through the application process, helping you transition seamlessly to your next educational step. Reason #3 – Flexible, Personalized Learning Designed for Adults Learning that fits your life, not the other way around. As an adult with responsibilities, your time is valuable. That’s why Durham College offers Academic Upgrading courses every semester, with scheduling options designed to work around your existing commitments to family and work. Our curriculum follows the Ontario Adult Literacy Curriculum Framework (OALCF), which means it’s specifically task-based and relevant to real-world adult situations. This practical approach helps you build skills you can apply immediately in your daily life while preparing for future education. We also provide essential skills training, like retail training and customer service, free of charge, to help you improve the skills to gain employment in some of the most in-demand industries. If you want to fast-track your career, we’ll get you there quicker. You’ll start with a skills assessment that identifies exactly where you need to focus, allowing us to create a customized learning plan that addresses your specific needs; there’s no time wasted on material you’ve already mastered. Reason #4 – Supportive College Environment & Modern Resources Experience the benefits of a real college campus. Unlike online upgrading programs or isolated adult education centers, Durham College’s Academic Upgrading program gives you access to a complete college environment with all its resources and energy. You’ll learn in small, comfortable classes led by qualified instructors who specialize in adult education. The face-to-face, interactive instruction creates opportunities for deeper learning and meaningful connections with both instructors and fellow students. Plus, you’ll have full access to Durham College’s extensive resources on campus, including the library, tutoring services, computer labs, and student support services. Perhaps most importantly, you’ll be studying alongside other motivated adult learners who share similar goals and life experiences. This supportive community creates natural accountability and helps build the confidence you need to succeed. Reason #5 – Boost Career Opportunities & Earning Power Invest time in yourself for real financial returns. The numbers don’t lie: advancing your education opens doors to better-paying opportunities. By completing these Grade 12 equivalent credits or earning your ACE Certificate through Durham College’s free program, you’re making a direct investment in your earning potential. Having Durham College on your transcript or micro-credential signals credibility to employers who recognize the institution’s reputation for quality education. This can make the difference between getting an interview and being overlooked in a competitive job market. Most importantly, these credits open doors to further post-secondary programs, whether that’s a college diploma, an apprenticeship program, or other specialized training that can significantly increase your career options and income potential. How to Get Started (It’s Easy!) If you’re ready to refresh your learning, your next step is simpler than you might think. Complete our quick online application form to express your interest in Academic Upgrading. Schedule your skills assessment in Reading and/or Numeracy (don’t worry—this helps us help you). Meet with an advisor to select your courses and create your personalized learning plan. Begin your classes and start your journey toward your goals! Apply for Academic Upgrading Today Remember, seats in our Academic Upgrading program fill quickly each semester. Don’t miss your chance to start this term! Your New Future Starts Here Completing your free Grade 12 equivalent courses at Durham College opens doors to opportunities you may have thought were closed. Whether you’re planning to enter a college program, start an apprenticeship, or strengthen your position in the job market, the Academic Upgrading program at Durham College provides the foundation you need to move forward with confidence. Your next academic chapter, and a new career, can start today. SHARE:
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