High School 

Finishing high school or getting your General Education Development (GED) is very important before you leave government care. In fact, many of our youth members say it is probably one of the most important things you can try to do in order to prepare yourself for exiting the system. It is very difficult to finish school on your own and hard to find employment without your grade 12 education or equivalent. Make a plan and find adult allies to support you to stay on track. 

Adult Learning Options 

If it is not possible to obtain your high school education before the age of 18, there may be a variety of programs to attend, available where you live, in order to receive your high school diploma or GED. Talk to your adult allies about what options may be available in your community.

Extension of Supports 

If you are a permanent or long term ward you have the right to apply for what is called an Extension of Supports or Section 56. This is a voluntary agreement that allows you to receive support from the Ministry of Social Services from the age of 18 until the age of 21, to continue your education, obtain employment, or receive additional supports if you have a disability. Talk to your social worker about this option, so that you have the support you need to finish school and/or find employment. Tip: It is much easier to stay in care voluntarily and receive supports than to return to it. DON’T LET ANYONE talk you into leaving care before you know you are ready! 

Post-Secondary Schooling 

If you are planning to continue your education after high school, start researching your options early. If you are thinking about going to a university, college or vocational school, you must apply for admission. The application process will have strict deadlines. Discuss your plans with an adult ally and get them to help you out! Check out college, vocational, and university websites. See what entrance or application fees are or what pre-requisites (high school classes, average) you may need. Make an appointment to visit these locations. Often, post-secondary campuses have “open” days for people checking out the school to have an organized visit that shows you where everything is and how it all works. You can find out more by calling their “Admissions” offices. Talk to a school counsellor or other adult ally about submitting your application and remember to submit on time! Remember, if you are under a Section 56 (Extension of Supports) agreement, you will have the financial support to attend post-secondary schooling until your 21st birthday.

Financial Aid 

Continuing your education will cost quite a bit of money. You may need help to pay for school. There are many different types of financial aid that you may be able to get, from Canada Student Loans, individual educational loans from a bank, to scholarships and bursaries. Some types of financial supports are based on grades and others on need, some you will have to pay back and others you will not. Talk to an adult ally about your best options for financial aid.