1. How do I know if my English is good enough to attend BALC?
At the registration, you will write an English Assessment. If your language skills are not strong enough to be successful at BALC, the Counsellor will refer you to an appropriate program.
2. Is there an age requirement to attend the BALC Adult Program?
Yes, you must be at least 21 years of age to register.
3. If I have an Ontario High School Diploma, may I attend BALC?
Yes, you must have a career or educational goal and agree to take only certain courses that lead to that goal.
4. Will my previous education from another country or province count towards the Ontario Secondary School Diploma?
Yes, we will evaluate your documents and award Ontario Equivalent Credits for your other education.
5. When can I start attending BALC Adult Program?
The school year is divided into 4 quadmesters or terms. Thus, you can begin at BALC 4 times per year… in September, November, February, and April.
6. How is each day divided up?
Each day is divided into 3 periods, each 2 hours long.
Period 1 - 8:25 a.m. to 10:
25 a.m.
Period 2 - 10:35 a.m. to 12:35 p.m.
Period 3 - 1:15
p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
7. Does BALC have Night School?
No, there is no Night School at BALC. However, BALC students have the opportunity to attend both Night and Summer School operated by the Toronto District School Board - Continuing Education in various other locations across Toronto.
8. If I am employed during the day, do you have any programs for me?
Yes, we have the Outreach Co-Op Program, a 4-credit package designed for those who hold a daytime job and cannot attend school during regular daytime school hours. Please see the full description in the Program Description section.
9. How can I get an Ontario high school diploma?
You need:
· at least 30 credits
· 18 Compulsory credits, 12 Elective credits
· 16 credits at the grade 9 and 10 level; 14 credits at the grade 11 and 12 level
· ENG4C or ENG4U (Grade 12 English)
· OLC4O (Ontario Literacy Credit) or pass the OSSLT
· 40 Hours of community volunteer service
10. How many credits is each course worth?
Each course is worth 1 credit. In addition to individual courses, there is a Co-op package which has 2 credits.
11. Do adults require an Ontario High School Diploma in order to apply to Community College?
No, but all pre-requisite credits for entry must be completed. Mature students need to demonstrate academic skills at a college level of study.
12. How many credits can I earn in one quadmester?
You can earn a maximum of 3 credits each quadmester. It is recommended that students attempt two credits per quadmester.
13. What is a quadmester?
A quadmester is 45 days long. Courses offered at Burnhamthorpe are completed in 1 quadmester. There are 4 quadmesters in the year.
14. Can I come three days a week because of my work schedule?
Unfortunately, you must be available to come to school Monday to Friday for the full 45 days of the quad.
15. Is parking available?
Parking is available and free of charge, all students must obtain a parking pass to identify your vehicle as a student vehicle.
16. Is Daycare Available?
There is a 'Not-for-Profit' daycare on site. Students must apply for a daycare placement.
17. Does attendance at BALC qualify me to use the Education Deductions on my Income Tax?
No, BALC is not a Post-Secondary Institution that charges Tuition Fees.
18. Does BALC provide financial support for me while I am attending?
No, students must provide their own means of financial support while attending BALC.
19. Can I attend BALC and collect Employment Insurance?
While this is possible, it is up to you to negotiate this with your E.I. Worker.
20. Is there an Attendance Policy?
Daily attendance is required and success at BALC depends upon good attendance. Poor attendance or chronic lateness could result in removal from a course or program removed from the program.
21. Is there a special BALC Graduation Diploma?
BALC graduates receive the same Ontario Secondary School Diplomas as any other Ontario students of any age.
22. Transcript?
Students currently enrolled or recent graduates (up to one year) receive all transcripts from BCI/BALC for FREE.
For transcript inquires during March break, Christmas vacation and when the school is closed during July and August, please contact the Central Transcript Office at 416-396-4783.
Central Transcript Office
The Central Transcript Office will handle requests for those students who have been out of school for more than five years. Please contact their office at 416-396-4783.