Going Back to School at 30, 40 or 50: Your Guide to Academic Upgrading in Oshawa Posted on January 30, 2026 at 6:26 pm. If you’re thinking about going back to school in your 30s, 40s, or 50s, we’ve put together this guide to help you overcome the uncertainty that many adult learners face when making this decision. A lot of adults hit a moment in their journey where they think: “I’ve missed my window to attend school” “I’m already exhausted and worry I can’t take on much more” “I freeze up when taking tests and what if it’s too hard?” You don’t have to figure any of this out by yourself! Our program at Durham College is designed to be manageable and encouraging for adults returning to school even after years have gone by. In this guide, you’ll learn what Academic Upgrading (AU) at Durham College is, what classes feel like as an adult, and exactly how to start. First, it’s important to know that you’re not behind for starting now Going back to school as a mature student can feel scary. But age can actually be a big advantage. When you’re older, you often have: Stronger reasons for being there. Real life experience. Patience and focus you didn’t have at 17. A clear goal for why you’re attending college. What Exactly is Academic Upgrading at Durham College? Academic Upgrading is a free program that offers Grade 12 equivalent C level courses for adults 18+. It helps you qualify for post-secondary programs and build your reading, writing, and math skills. This is a great fit if you are: 18+ and missing college admission requirements. Coming back after being out of school for a while. Looking to upgrade your skills for college programs or work. Trained internationally and need Ontario high school credits. What makes Durham’s Academic Upgrading different? It’s designed for adults returning to school to complete their Grade 12 equivalents. Courses are free thanks to government funding. You get face-to-face, in-person instruction. We provide a supportive adult learning environment. Durham College has possible financial support for daycare and/or transportation. Student Advisors are available to help with college applications and questions. And the program is offered every semester, so you can start when the time is right for you. What does class feel like when you’re 30, 40, or 50? We often find that adult learners are on the fence about enrolling in AU because they fear they won’t fit in with the younger students or that it’s going to feel like high school all over again. The good news is that’s not the case in the Durham College program. Academic Upgrading is built as an adult learning space with supportive instructors and face-to-face teaching. Many mature learners notice right away: People in the room actually want to be there. It’s normal to ask questions. You won’t be the only one who feels rusty at first. You can focus on what you need, instead of taking a bunch of random courses. And because it’s on campus, you also get the sense of progress that comes with it. Being in a learning space can help you build momentum fast. What courses can you take? Academic Upgrading at Durham includes these in-person courses: ACE Communications (Grade 12 equivalent ENG4C) ACE Core Math (Grade 11 equivalent MBF3C) ACE Apprenticeship Math (Grade 12 equivalent MAP4C) ACE Computer Foundations ACE Self Management ACE Biology (Grade 11 equivalent SBI3C) ACE Chemistry (Grade 12 equivalent SCH4C) Thinking about the trades? If your goal is an apprenticeship, you may also want to look at completing the ACE Certificate. It’s recognized as a high school equivalency for apprenticeship registration in Ontario, and it has a clear 4-course path: ACE Communications One ACE Math course Any two additional approved ACE courses How to apply (it’s simpler than you think) We have a clear and simple process for applying and getting started with Academic Upgrading. Step 1: Start the Academic Upgrading application Visit the Academic Upgrading Application page and click the Apply Now button. Step 2: Complete the Skills Marker Assessment After you apply, you’ll complete an online Skills Marker Assessment in reading and/or numeracy (math). This helps us understand your current level so we can place you properly. Important: this assessment is not timed and not a pass/fail test. It’s just a starting point so we can best help you in the AU program. Step 3: Complete the enrolment After you submit your assessment, we will follow up with you about completing the enrolment. At that time, you can also schedule an orientation with us if you need further assistance before classes start. In that orientation, we will: go over your personalized learning plan. Complete registration paperwork. Answer your questions. Step 4: Start classes on campus in Oshawa Once you’re registered, you’ll begin classes in person at Durham’s Oshawa campus at the start of whichever semester you enrolled for. Note: We recommend that you plan ahead, because you move through steps like application → assessment → orientation → registration, and courses will fill up in the months leading up to the next semester start. “I’m working and I have a life… can I still do this?” Most mature learners are juggling many priorities in their lives: Work. Kids. Caregiving. A busy home life. Just getting back into learning after a long break. Academic Upgrading is often a good fit because you can build a plan based on your goal and your schedule. One important note for planning: Academic Upgrading is considered part-time, even if you take up to four courses in a semester. You’re not jumping into a full-time schedule of school and can complete the courses you need at your own pace. And if you’re worried about support, there is funding available for things like daycare and/or transportation for qualified learners. What if I don’t have a high school diploma? If you’re 30, 40, or 50, you might be thinking: Can I still even qualify for college? A mature student is anyone over 19 who does not attend high school full-time, and mature students can apply for college programs in different ways depending on their background. If you’re missing a required course (like Grade 12 English or math), Academic Upgrading is one of the most helpful and supportive ways to fill that gap. Want to feel more confident before you apply? Go to an event. Sometimes the best way to feel less nervous is to see what it feels like at our Oshawa campus. We run events like Program Information Nights that you can attend. You can check the Future Students Events page to see what’s coming up next. Quick FAQ for mature students Am I too old to start Academic Upgrading? Nope. If you’re 18+, you can apply. We actively support mature students. What if I’m embarrassed because I’ve been out of school for a long time? It’s perfectly normal. The Skills Marker Assessment helps place you at the right level, and it’s not pass or fail. Is it online or in person? Academic Upgrading courses are in person at the Oshawa campus. Will someone help me choose the right courses? After your assessment, you’ll have the opportunity to set up a one-on-one orientation where staff go over your results and help plan your next steps. Who do I talk to if I have questions before I’m enrolled? You can contact the Academic Upgrading team: Phone: 905.721.3131 Email: academicupgrading@durhamcollege.ca Not sure if Academic Upgrading is the right fit? If your main goal is getting job-ready fast and you want short, targeted training, you may also want to look at our Essential Skills Training. Ready to take the first step? If you’ve been thinking about going back to school at 30, 40, or 50, this is your sign to start small. Step one is simply learning more and starting your application by browsing through our website. You don’t need to have everything figured out today. You just need one small next step. SHARE:
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