FAQ: OCDSB International Certificate Program

What do I “get” by completing the OCDSB International Certificate Program?

Each student who successfully completes the requirements of the program will receive a special certificate presented at a graduation ceremony in their grade 12 year.
Students who qualify for the “Honours” designation will receive a special seal on the certificate.
There is an intrinsic value in participating in a unique program which encourages student leadership and global citizenship along with fellow students who may have similar values and aspirations. The student will gain cultural competency and the certificate may provide an opportunity to explore future educational and career opportunities.

Why would I want to complete this program?

Learning or improving another language
Increasing global awareness
Immersing yourself in another culture
Making lifelong friendships
Becoming more independent and confident
Exploring opportunities for your future
Hosting an international student in your family
Traveling and visiting other countries and cultures
Understanding differences and similarities between cultures
Connecting personal experience with coursework
Developing leadership skills
Contributing to local and foreign communities
Participating as a global citizen

Upon completing the certificate, do I receive any special consideration for university or college acceptance?

Huron at Western College and Carleton University’s Bachelor of Global and International Studies offer ICP graduates the chance to apply for their $1000 first-year scholarships.

How do I enroll in the OCDSB International Certificate Program?

Fill out the enrolment form on this website or ask who your school’s ICP advisor is.

What is the role of the International Certificate Advisor at my school?

The International Certificate Advisor is a teacher who has volunteered to assist in promoting the program and to help you in planning the pathway you choose to take to meet the requirements for obtaining the certificate.
In many schools the International Certificate Advisor will hold regular meetings for all students enrolled in the program and also advise you on course selections, along with your Guidance counselor, in order to complete the program.
The advisor will be well informed about the program to give you advice and monitor your progress.

If I travel overseas with my family during the summer or school year can I receive credit towards the “International Experience and Engagement” requirement?

In many cases this will count but you are encouraged to get PRIOR approval from the International Certificate Advisor or International Education Coordinator.
If it does count, you will need to share a reflection about your experience.

If my “mother tongue” is a language other than English or French, does this automatically count towards a student completing the language requirement?

In most cases this would not be acceptable since you must complete an Ontario Ministry of Education credit to qualify for the language requirement. The intent of this component is (1) to learn another language besides English, French, or your language spoken at home, OR (2) to further develop proficiency in your “mother tongue.”

If my family hosts an international student in Homestay more than once, or if I am an international student who stays in Homestay more than one semester, can I get credit for more than 50 hours?

A student enrolled in the International Certificate Program can receive a maximum of 50 hours credit for Homestay experience, whether the students’ family is hosting more than once or if the student is an international student who lives in a Homestay for more than one semester.

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International Certificate Program - ICP

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