The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) is a mandatory exam for high school students in Ontario aiming to earn their diploma. While exact failure rates fluctuate yearly, recent data from the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) shows that roughly 10% to 15% of first-time test-takers do not meet the provincial standard. For example, in the 2022–2023 school year, approximately 86% of students passed on their first attempt, meaning around 14% did not.
It’s important to note that students who don’t pass the OSSLT on their first try have options. They can retake the test in subsequent sessions or complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC) as an alternative pathway to fulfill the literacy requirement. Because of these options, the overall eventual pass rate is significantly higher, often exceeding 95% by the time students graduate.
Several factors influence OSSLT outcomes, including reading comprehension skills, writing clarity, and familiarity with the test format. Students from under-resourced schools or those learning English as an additional language may face additional challenges, which can impact initial pass rates.
For students preparing for the OSSLT, targeted practice especially in interpreting informational texts, writing news reports, and crafting opinion pieces can dramatically improve performance. The EQAO provides official sample questions and past assessments, which are invaluable for realistic preparation.
If you're a Grade 10 student (or supporting one) in Ontario, don’t be discouraged by the OSSLT’s reputation. With focused prep and access to the right resources, most students successfully meet the literacy requirement. Remember: a single attempt doesn’t define your ability Ontario’s education system offers multiple pathways to success.