Frequently Asked Questions about Academic Upgrading
We've compiled the most common questions we get asked about Entry Advising and grouped them into categories. Expand the categories below to learn more!
Academic Upgrading basics
Q1. What is Academic Upgrading?
Academic Upgrading is a tuition-free program for adults who want to improve their skills in reading, writing, math and science. Whether you want to take your courses in person or online, we will support you in building a learning plan to help meet your goals and you'll get career advice, counselling and other supports at George Brown.
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca, or give us a call 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
Q2. What courses are offered?
Our courses help individuals meet college and apprenticeship entry requirements in English Communications, math and science. We also offer courses in computer skills, as well as personal and professional exploration. Courses are offered at varying levels up to the Academic and Career Entrance level, commonly known as ACE. ACE is a credit level accepted and recognized by Ontario colleges for admission purposes.
Q3. I have no idea what I want to do. Where do I start?
CHOICES at George Brown is a free, one-week program that helps you learn about yourself and set goals for the future.
By the end of the week, you'll be clearer about your career interests and goals. You'll have a plan of action and our coaches will help you take your next steps.
Want to know more?
Email us at choices@georgebrown.ca.
Q4. What courses will I need to take in the Academic Upgrading Program?
Your courses will depend on your program. Many of our courses are available both in-person and online. George Brown upgrading courses are offered in English, math and science. Different levels of English and math are offered, right up to ACE (Academic and Career Entrance). Science courses are offered at ACE (Academic and Career Entrance) level only. ACE credits are recognized by Ontario colleges for application to postsecondary and apprenticeship programs. Many employers recognize the ACE Certificate.
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca, or give us a call 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
Q5. How long does it take to complete a course in the Academic Upgrading program?
Academic Upgrading courses are all different and can take from 4 months to a year or more depending on personal goals, academic needs and progress.
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca, or give us a call 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
Who can apply?
Q6. Who is eligible to take Academic Upgrading programs?
You can take our upgrading programs if you are:
- Age 19 and older
- A permanent resident of Ontario
- Fluency in English (for Academic Upgrading) with a minimum level 8 in all four skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) with Canadian Language Benchmarks Test or know some ASL (for Deaf Academic Upgrading)
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca, or give us a call at 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
Q7. I am Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing - am I eligible to take Academic Upgrading?
Yes! If you are age 19 or older, know some ASL and live in Ontario you are eligible for Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing Academic Upgrading. You can also take courses online through Deaf Learn Now.
Want to know more?
Email us at deafupgrading@georgebrown.ca or visit the Deaf Learning Now website
Q8. I am receiving Employment Insurance. Can I participate in this program?
EI benefits may not be available when participating in programs or workshops under academic upgrading. For clarification on your rights and obligations as an EI claimant, please contact Service Canada.
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca or give us a call at 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
Cost
Q9. How much do upgrading courses cost?
All Academic Upgrading courses at George Brown are tuition-free for permanent residents of Ontario. They are funded by Employment Ontario. There is a fee for some ACE Distance courses, depending on when you take them.
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca, or give us a call at 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
Q10. Do you offer subsidies for transportation, like TTC?
Yes! Students in the Academic Upgrading Program and the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Upgrading Program can apply for transportation subsidies.
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca or give us a call at 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
Next steps
Q11. Will I get my high school diploma (Grade 12, OSSD) if I complete the Academic Upgrading program?
No, but you can get an equivalent credential. Through Academic Upgrading, you can get the ACE (Academic Career Entrance) Certificate by completing 4 ACE level credits. English, math and two other ACE courses.
- ACE credits do not give you a high school diploma, but they are recognized by Ontario colleges for applying to college-level programs and apprenticeship programs.
- Most students only need to complete 1 or 2 ACE credits for admission into their college program.
- Students who complete 4 ACE Credits are eligible for the ACE Certificate, which is accepted as an alternative to the Ontario high school diploma.
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca, or give us a call at 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
Q12. What happens when I've completed my Academic Upgrading program?
Your teachers, counsellor and other program staff will work to support you in planning your next steps.
Want to know more?
Email us at upgradinginfo@georgebrown.ca or give us a call at 416-415-5000 ext. 3560.
