MSS Guidance - Post-Secondary

Post-Secondary Information

Work - Apprenticeships - College - University - Scholarships/Awards

Start by getting your OSSD! Also make sure you have the correct high school courses required for your post-secondary plans.

Application Supports

Application to College:

Here's a website to assist with Special Education programs in Post-Secondary

Not sure what career is right for you?

Check out these resources:

Application to University:

Applying to College and University

The application process starts in October with possible early acceptances starting in November. Most programs require final 1st semester marks and guarantee equal consideration for all applicants by the end of January.

Step 1: (September of Gr12 or earlier) Research possible College/University programs. www.myBlueprint.ca is a great place to start.

Step 2: Discuss your research with your parents, teachers and guidance counsellors.

Step 3: Visit possible schools in person or through their virtual tours and information sessions. Some post-secondary schools send representatives to us and then we arrange a special classroom session for the presentation. Each school is different and will have contrasting options available, so check their websites for up to date options. As much as possible we will post event dates on our calendar on the home page.

Step 4: (October) sign up and attend Information sessions on how to apply led by our guidance team. These usually happen in one of the scheduled Gr12 class, but anyone interested can attend.

Step 5: (October/November) Complete your online application either through OCAS (Colleges) or OUAC (Universities) There are sessions available to help you complete these applications - see your guidance counsellor for more information.
NOTE: you will not be able to complete your University applications until you receive your PIN from your guidance counsellor.

Transitions to the Workplace and Apprenticeships

There are several types of assistance provided to facilitate a transition directly to the workplace. The Co-op program is an excellent way for students to gain experience and establish professional contacts in the local community. There are also career fairs that occur throughout the school year that offer a wide variety of information for future employment. Assistance is also available with various print and online resources to help students find their place in the workplace. For students who would like help in finding a job on Manitoulin Island they can contact Cambrian College’s Manitoulin Campus Employment Services at 368-3194.

Apprenticeships (Video) are the gateway to many trades, providing a solid career. In an apprenticeship students go through a mix of class instruction and practical training in preparation to become a certified tradesperson. Although the Co-op program provides excellent opportunity for an introduction to a particular career, students interested in trades should look into the OYAP as a way to jump-start their apprenticeships while still in secondary school. Keep in mind there are two pathways to the trades: 1) start working with a journeyman right out of high school, or 2) go to College for the training first and then get your job hours.

NOTE: there is a coming shortage in the skilled trades! This is a great opportunity for students to get excellent jobs for a secure future.

Scholarships & Bursaries

Link to our Scholarships Pamphlet

There are thousands of scholarships available to help you pay for post-secondary studies. Many of them are automatic and you don't need to apply such as:

Entrance Scholarships based on your entrance average
SHSM Program Scholarships

However, many scholarships require research to find them. Hundreds of organizations offer scholarships, but there is no ONE system to find them. Here are some excellent research locations to start looking:

For many of these scholarships you will need to write a personal essay, or provide letters of reference from your teachers or other adult connections. Some may even require a personal portfolio or that you write a test. It will take several hours of research, but it could also result in $1000s for your future studies.
Start early to make sure you're ready.

Here are a few reference websites to help you along with the process:

Build your Resume:

You should start early to partipate in activities that can build your skills and broaden your horizons, things that can build your resume too. Scholarships are usually looking for people who are in need in a particular way, or show particular interests and aptitudes. Check out this special enrichement programs if your interested:

Know of another opportunity to add to this list? Tell us about it!

OSAP - Ontario Student Assistant Program

Post-secondary studies are getting more and more expensive, but there is help. All students should consider applying for OSAP to help them with the costs associated. This program can provide grants and loans to help you get through your post-secondary studies. Grants are support money given to students in need and don't need to be paid back. Loans do need to be paid back after you complete your studies, however they are interest free until many months after you graduate, and still a good investment for your future career.

Link to OSAP Application Website

MSS AWARDS

The community of Manitoulin Island is very supportive of its local students. Each year the student awards committee helps coordinate about $60,000 worth of scholarships and bursaries donated by individuals, groups, municipalities and businesses to help you with your post-secondary studies. Some are based on academic performance, some leadership experiences, some on volunteer experience, and others on particular programs of study. Remember to thank the donors for their continued generosity and support of all our mustangs! Check our school social media for the application form, usually due around Thanksgiving the same fall that you start post-secondary studies.

Looking for inspiration on ideas? Check out this reference Modern Life Skills