Why does Ontario make students take EQAO tests?
The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) tests measure your progress compared to the standard set for your grade. The results also show what needs improvement in public schools and help ensure students learn what they need to.
When do I have to take the EQAO tests?
Students take the EQAO test at different points throughout their public education. Every student in Ontario has to take the EQAO test in:
- Grade 3: Assessment of Reading, Writing and Mathematics, Primary Division
- Grade 6: Assessment of Reading, Writing and Mathematics, Junior Division
- Grade 9: Assessment of Mathematics
- Grade 10: The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)
Do I need to study for the EQAO tests?
The EQAO tests are based on the curriculum you're following as a student in Ontario, so no additional studying is required. As long as you keep up with what's taught in your classes, you will be prepared to pass the tests.
Still, if you'd like to do additional preparation and familiarize yourself with the test format, visit www.eqao.com for more resources.
What's the OSSLT?
The OSSLT is the final provincial test and is particularly important because it measures whether students are meeting the minimum standard for literacy across all subjects up to the end of grade 9. Students must pass the OSSLT to graduate from high school.
Students who fail their literacy test can retake it until they pass.
Do the results of the tests affect my grades?
EQAO results do not count towards your Grade 3 or 6 report card grades.
The results from the Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics will be used as part of your final mark in the Grade 9 mathematics course. Ask your math teacher for more information.
The OSSLT results do not count towards your school grades, but you must pass this test to receive your high school diploma.
Read EQAO’s general FAQ page for more information.
What happens if I fail the OSSLT?
You can take the OSSLT as many times as you need to in order to pass.
If you're struggling to pass the test after multiple attempts, you may want to consider taking the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC) instead. The course was created to give students the intensive support they need to demonstrate that they've achieved provincial literacy standards.