Explore Your Admissions Options at Durham College

Ready for college, but not sure where to start? Durham College has got your back.

Are you ready for college but not sure where to start? Whether you need to upgrade a course, build your confidence, or explore your options, we're here to help you move forward.

Durham College offers several pathways designed to help you qualify for your program of choice, gain key academic skills, and feel prepared for the college experience. Explore the options below to find the one that's right for you.

Academic and Career Entrance Courses (online)

Who's it for?
Students 18+ who want to complete grade 12 equivalents in English, Math, Biology, and/or Chemistry, who want to refresh academic skills after time away from school, or want to upgrade workplace-level credits.

What's the timeline?
Courses start every month.

What's the delivery method?
Asynchronous online — learn at your own pace with set assessment deadlines.

What's the cost?
Free! (You must successfully complete the ACE application to qualify.)

What are the benefits?
Access to a full range of student supports, including academic advising, tutoring, and campus services.

Learn more about online academic and career entrance courses.

Academic Upgrading (in person)

Who's it for?
Students 18+ who want to complete grade 12 equivalents in English, Math, Biology, and/or Chemistry, who want to refresh academic skills after time away from school, want to upgrade workplace-level credits, or are looking to get Canadian credentials after an international education.

Further, there are additional free courses in Financial Literacy, Conversational English, Self Management, and Computer Foundations available.

What's the timeline?
Courses start every semester.

What's the delivery method?
Fully in-person.

What's the cost?
Free!

What are the benefits?
Access to a full range of student supports, including academic advising, tutoring, and campus services. Personalized goal setting and college transition support, including guidance with applications and next steps for postsecondary success. You'll also earn ACE certification upon completion.

Learn more about academic upgrading at Durham College.

Pre-admission testing

Who's it for?
Students 19+ who do not have the required program credits (i.e. Grade 12 English or math).

What's the timeline?
Book online for available test dates.

What's the delivery method?
In-person at a Test Centre at the Whitby or Oshawa campuses.

What's the cost?
$33.90 (CAD) for each test taken.

What are the benefits?
The option to write a test instead of completing a full course to meet college admission requirements.

Learn more about pre-admission testing.

General Arts and Science (GAS) programs

Who's it for?
Students looking for flexibility, transferable credits, and a pathway into other college or university programs — even if you didn't initially meet the admission requirements.

What's the timeline?
Two semesters.

What's the delivery method?
Fully in-person.

What's the cost?
Variable; explore tuition costs on the Durham College website.

What are the benefits?
Build your academic confidence, explore what inspires you, and earn credits towards future programs, all while gaining real-world skills that strengthen your resumé.

Learn more about GAS programs at Durham College.

Still not sure which path is right for you? The Durham College Student Recruitment team is here to support you with whatever questions or concerns you might have. Reach out to the Student Recruitment team anytime and we'll be happy to help!