Apply Now!
Space is limited and subject to availability.
Apply early to secure your spot and start your academic journey smoothly. Submit your application at least three weeks before the term begins to avoid the waitlist.
Academic Upgrading
Your Pathway to College or a New Career
Why Should I Apply?
Free Academic Pathways for Career & College Success
Academic Upgrading is a tuition-free program that provides you with the admission requirements needed for:
- College certificate, diploma, and advanced diploma programs
- Apprenticeship
- Workplace skills needed for employment
Is Academic Upgrading for me?
If you:
- Are at least 18 years old and an Ontario resident
- Need admission requirements for a college program
- Are out of school and looking to brush up on your academic skills
Sheridan’s Academic Upgrading program could be your next big step.
Program Recognition Information
The program is recognized by all colleges in Ontario and is designed to meet your specific educational needs.
Program Fees
Fees below are approximate:
- Term 1 Domestic Course Tuition: $2,750
- Term 2 Domestic Course Tuition: $1,200
- Textbook Fees: $550 (includes 3 online textbooks and access to Evolve elearning site activities)
- Additional Materials: students will require a lab kit for this program. (A materials fee of $141.26 is included in the tuition, but is non-refundable after the first class.)
Ontario Needs You!
The Facts
50,000
RPNs
There are currently 50,000 RPNs working in Ontario, according to the Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (WeRPN).
29%
practice > five years
But nearly 29% of Ontario’s RPNs intend to practice for less than 5 years, creating a serious shortage – and an opportunity for those to advance in nursing. (WeRPN)
22,000
short
In fact, Ontario is estimated to be nearly 22,000 registered nurses (RN) short on a per-capita basis, according to the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO).
60,000
shortage
The Canadian Nurses Association predicted a shortage of about 60,000 RNs across Canada by 2022.
15,000
aren’t practising
About 15,000 Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) in Ontario aren’t practising as a nurse, despite their qualifications. (RNAO)
Ask Our Experts
Our live Information Sessions are a great way to learn about:
| Program details and information |
| Program guidance and academic pathways |
| Sheridan services available |
| Career opportunities |
| Website navigation and registration |
| and more! |
Date: April 12, 2023
Time: 12–1 p.m.
Location: Virtual (we highly recommend joining via a desktop or laptop computer as there will be a presentation aspect to these sessions)
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions by exploring the FAQs below.
If you still cannot find answers to your questions, feel free to contact us.
Which subjects are offered?
Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) high school College-Level Credit Equivalencies:
ACE Core Subjects
- Communications (up to Grade 12C)
- Mathematics (up to Grade 12C)
- Chemistry (up to Grade 12C)
- Biology (up to Grade 11C)
Elective Subjects
- Computer Applications
- Strategies for Success
When does the program run?
Academic Upgrading operates on a three-term year, with each term lasting 14 weeks.
- Fall Term:
September – December - Winter Term:
January – April - Spring/Summer Term:
May – August - Submit your application at least 3 weeks prior to the start of a term, as seats fill up quickly!
How long does Academic Upgrading take to complete?
Your time spent in the program is based on your academic needs or goals.
- Competency level is determined by your pre-admission assessment scores.
- The number of courses required to achieve your goal.
When do classes take place?
Academic Upgrading is offered in-class, on weekdays.
Classes run for 3 hours, 1–2 days per week, depending on the course.
- Mornings:
9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. - Afternoons:
1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. - Evenings:
6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. - Note: Schedules may be subject to change.
Where is Academic Upgrading delivered?
Sheridan College delivers this program at:
- Oakville (Trafalgar Campus)
- Brampton (Davis Campus)
- Mississauga (Hazel McCallion Campus)
What is the Cost?
- All courses are free of cost
- Academic Upgrading is a tuition-free program, funded by Employment Ontario for Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents of Ontario.
Is Financial Assistance Available?
Yes! Students enrolled in an Academic Upgrading course can apply for Financial Assistance for:
- Public Transportation
- Childcare
- Internet-related expenses
This support aims to reduce barriers to learning for students with low household income and resources. To learn more about this assistance and how to apply, please email academicupgrading@sheridancollege.ca
Are ACE Courses Offered Online?
- No, virtual ACE courses are not offered at Sheridan College, as we are committed to in-person learning at each Campus.
- If you are interested in taking upgrading online, you may visit the ACE Distance Delivery provider to determine if online learning is right for you:
Website: www.acedistancedelivery.ca
Contact: info@cscau.com (for inquiries in English)
infofr@cscau.ca (for inquiries in French)
How do I qualify?
Eligibility criteria:
- Age 19+
- Ontario Resident
- Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Convention Refugee
- English fluency (Canadian Language Benchmarks: level 6 in all four skills)
- Successful completion of pre-admission assessment
