What does the legalization of cannabis mean for youth?

What's cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant that's often used as medicine or as a recreational drug. 

Since October 17, 2018, under federal law, individuals over 18 years of age are allowed to possess and consume recreational cannabis. However, in many cases, the provinces have further increased this age requirement. In Ontario, only individuals over 19 years of age may possess and consume recreational cannabis.

What is OSAP?

How does OSAP work?

OSAP can fund your education through:

  • Grants: money you don't have to pay back
  • Loans: money you have to pay back, with interest, after you graduate

You’re automatically considered for both grants and loans when you apply for OSAP, but you have the option of declining the loan.

If you do accept OSAP’s loan, you’ll be expected to pay that money back once you finish your studies. The loan begins accruing interest six months after you graduate.

What's high school like?

Getting ready

Before school starts, you and your parents will need to make sure you’re registered and placed at the right grade level. You’ll also need to pick your courses. In Ontario schools, there are many courses to choose from. Some are required (like English and certain levels of math) while others (called electives) are optional.

What is an EQAO test and do I have to take it?

Why does Ontario make students take EQAO tests?

The tests are a way to measure your progress against a provincial standard of educational achievements. The results also show what needs improvement in the public education system, and holds educators accountable for what they're supposed to be teaching. 

When do I take the test?

Students take the EQAO test at different points throughout their public education. Every student in Ontario has to take the EQAO test in:

How do I get my driver's licence?

You will need:

  • To be over 16-years-old
  • Identification: (1) a personal ID, like a health card, and (2) a foreign or Canadian passport, citizenship card, a Permanent Residency Card (PRC) or other permanent or temporary immigration documents. (original ID and non-expired)
  • Money
  • Time
  • A car (for the road tests)
  • To pass tests including an eye exam

Step 1: Get your G1

To get your first licence (G1) you will need to take a written test.

What is "sexual" consent?

How do I give and get consent?

You get consent by asking your partner(s) for permission to do something sexual.

You give consent by allowing your partner(s) to do something sexual.

If you try to be sexual with someone without their consent, you’re doing something that they haven’t agreed to, and that’s considered sexual assault or rape.

How do I ask for consent?

You need to give consent and get consent before doing anything, whether it’s hugging, kissing, touching, sex or anything else.

What are anxiety and depression?

What can lead to anxiety or depression?

Young newcomers experience lots of mental health challenges. Many young newcomers experience anxiety or depression because of moving to a new place, adjusting to a new culture, facing language barriers and racial discrimination, which can all cause stress.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is when you start worrying about things more than usual. You can tell if you are anxious if: