Academic Upgrading: Get ready for post‑secondary

Get the confidence and skills you need to succeed.

Not everyone takes the same educational path. That’s why we have many options to help you reach your goals –including online learning, in-person workshops, and full-time programs. Our courses are flexible and tuition-free.

What is Academic Upgrading?

Interested in upgrading your academic skills, but not sure where to begin? Academic Upgrading at George Brown is a tuition-free program funded by Employment Ontario for adults who need to upgrade their English Communications, Math and/or Science skills. The program is designed to help students meet the entry requirements for college-level certificate and diploma programs or move successfully into apprenticeships or employment.

Who can benefit from this program?

Are you an English-speaking Ontario resident, 19 years or older, who’s been out of school? If English is your second language, are your skills at the Canadian Language benchmark level 8 or higher? If you answered yes and you want to start improving your academic skills, then our Academic Upgrading program might be right for you!

When and where is Academic Upgrading delivered?

Academic Upgrading classes take place online between 9 am and 2:00 pm, Monday to Friday throughout the year. The program offers intake twice each semester. When in-person classes are available, they take place at our St. James Campus on King Street East.

Which scenario best describes your needs?

I'd like to learn more about my options and how to get started

Choices

If you’re thinking about college but are not sure how to get started or which programs may be the right fit for you, consider our 1-week CHOICES program.

I want to attend college but need to upgrade my skills

For Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Students

Classes offered to Deaf and Hard of Hearing students in American Sign Language to improve your English, math and ASL to prepare for post-secondary and employment success.

Degree Program Applicants

For applicants missing some University Level (U-Level) credits, we offer bridging programs to gain the required courses to enter a George Brown degree program.

I'm ready to apply to George Brown College

Mature Students Assessment Preparation (MSAP)

We offer a unique 3-week program to prepare for your mature student assessment test before you start your post-secondary program.

Placement Test Assessment Preparation (PTAP)

You have been ACCEPTED into a post-secondary program at George Brown College and you’ve been informed that you need to write a math placement test. Join our free Math Placement Test Assessment Preparation Test before you write your placement test.

Free classes are offered on weekends at our St James Campus.