Ontario School of Commerce and Technology

Policy and Procedure Manual

These policies apply to all students enrolled at OSOCAT. The College is registered under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005. Select a policy from the list to jump to it, or scroll to read the full manual.

  • Version: 1001-2026
  • Effective: July 01, 2026
  • Approved by: Prof. Basir Chand
  • Enquiries: admin@osocat.ca

Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities

Every student enrolled in a vocational program at OSOCAT receives a copy of the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities developed by the Superintendent of Career Colleges, together with a copy of this College's fee refund policy and student complaint procedure, at the time the student enrolment contract is signed, as required under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.

This manual sets out the student-facing policies and procedures of the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"). It has been prepared for a career college registered under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 and its regulations, and applies to all students enrolled in any vocational program approved by the Superintendent of Career Colleges.

Each policy follows the same structure: Scope and Purpose, Policy, Procedure, and Reference. Policies are grouped by theme, and each begins on a new page so that individual policies may be extracted and distributed separately if required.

Reference

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

Occupational Health and Safety Act

Ontario Human Rights Code

Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), 2000

Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005, S.O. 2005, c. 28, Sched. L

Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 – O. Reg. 415/06: GENERAL

Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 – O. Reg. 414/06: TRAINING COMPLETION ASSURANCE FUND AND OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS

Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997

Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997

The development of these policies and procedures is derived, defined and refined on the bases of similar policies and procedures developed by Ontario Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology and Ontario registered career colleges.

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Student Complaint Policy and Procedure

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for receiving, reviewing, and responding to student complaints in instances where no other appropriate policy and procedure address the concern of the grieved party. It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College, and to former students, where the alleged incident(s) occurred while the person was a student and warrants a complaint.

This policy is established in accordance with section 31 of the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 and section 36 of O. Reg. 415/06. A copy of this procedure is provided to every student before the student enters into a contract with the College.

2. General Definitions of Complaint

Informal Resolution of Complaint: An initial step for a student to take in an effort to request a meeting with the employee responsible for the course to discuss the complaint.

Formal Resolution of Complaint: A student complaint not resolved to the satisfaction of the student in the informal resolution process may be escalated to the appropriate College administrator for further review and resolution.

3. Policy

  1. OSOCAT seeks continuous improvement in its delivery of teaching, learning, and service to its students and encourages its students to communicate with the College when there is cause for concern or situations calling for improvement.

  2. OSOCAT is committed to addressing student complaints in a prompt and fair manner.

  3. Students will not be subject to any form of retaliation, sanction, or reprisal as a result of filing a complaint.

  4. All student complaints must be made in writing. A student making a complaint may be represented by an agent or a lawyer.

  5. No fee is charged to a student for making or handling a complaint under this policy.

  6. College employees are responsible for responding to student complaints in a professional and timely manner.

  7. Students are responsible for initiating each step of the student complaint procedure in accordance with the timelines stated in this policy and procedure.

  8. Students making a complaint should do so as soon as possible, but no later than 10 business days of the incident(s) giving rise to the concern.

  9. OSOCAT's resolution processes will strive to address complaints in a manner that is fair to all parties.

  10. All student complaints shall be considered individually; group complaints are not permissible.

  11. Student complaints deemed to be false, frivolous, vexatious, or made in bad faith will be addressed through the Student Code of Conduct Policy and Procedure.

This policy and procedure do not address student complaints in instances where a more appropriate College policy or procedure, grievance, or appeal process exists, including but not limited to:

  • Anti-Racism, Discrimination and Harassment Policy and Procedure;

  • Sexual Violence Policy and Procedure;

  • Sexual Violence / Harassment Policy;

  • Grade Appeal Policy;

  • Fee Refund Policy and Procedure;

  • Student Code of Conduct Policy and Procedure;

  • Student Expulsion Policy; and

  • Student Attendance Policy.

Confidentiality between the relevant parties will be maintained where possible, having regard for:

  • the circumstances giving rise to the incident(s);

  • privacy and data management requirements;

  • the need to share information in order to resolve concerns; and

  • the fact that confidentiality does not mean anonymity.

4. Procedure

I. Step 1 — Informal Resolution of Complaint

a. The student will request a meeting with the employee responsible for the course to discuss the complaint. In communicating a complaint to the affected employee, students will state their concern clearly, preferably in writing. Students should retain a copy of their written complaints for future reference.

b. An employee who receives a complaint will review it and seek clarification as needed. Complaints received about other employees will be referred to them, as appropriate.

c. The student and the employee will explore ways to resolve the complaint(s) informally and document the resolution for action/distribution as appropriate.

d. If the student and the employee are unable to resolve a concern, the student may choose to proceed to Step 2 — Formal Resolution of Complaint. OSOCAT employees will provide students who are seeking to pursue a formal complaint with the name and contact information for the relevant College administrator.

II. Step 2 — Formal Resolution of Complaint

a. Complaints not resolved to the satisfaction of the student in the informal resolution process may be escalated to the appropriate College administrator.

b. The student will complete the College's Student Complaint Form and submit it to admin office or at admin@osocat.ca

c. The relevant College administrator will review the student's complaint and seek clarification from the student, as needed.

d. Within five (5) business days of receiving a complaint from a student, the relevant College administrator will initiate an investigation, which may include dialogue with appropriate employees or witnesses. The investigation will follow any method deemed appropriate. Relevant employees will have an opportunity to respond to the specific concerns raised in the complaint within five (5) business days of being notified of the investigation by the College administrator.

e. As needed, the College administrator may escalate the complaint to Campus Coordinator or Registrar for a decision or bring the employee(s) and student together to discuss the concern, clarify aspects of the complaint, and/or develop a resolution strategy. Students who do not engage in this step of the process when requested will have their complaints deemed abandoned.

f. If the complaint is deemed to have merit, the College administrator will identify a resolution and advise the student and relevant employee(s) in writing of the outcome.

g. If the complaint is deemed to lack merit, the College administrator will inform the student and relevant employee(s) in writing and provide a rationale for why no further action will be taken.

h. If the complaint is deemed to be false, frivolous, vexatious, or made in bad faith, the College administrator will forward the investigation for review as a breach of the standards of student conduct.

i. The College will provide the student with a written decision setting out the reasons for the determination within thirty (30) days of the date on which the complaint was made.

III. Step 3 — External Review

If the student's complaint is not resolved at the College level, the student may submit a student complaint to:

Superintendent of Career Colleges

Ministry of Colleges and Universities

77 Wellesley Street West, Box 977, Toronto, Ontario M7A 1N3

A student who is not satisfied with the resolution of their complaint may submit their complaint to the Superintendent of Career Colleges through PARIS, the automated system, at: https://www.pcc.tcu.gov.on.ca/PARISExtWeb/public/login.xhtml

A guide for creating a student user account is available at: http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/pepg/audiences/pcc/paris-enrolment-guide-for-new-users.pdf

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Student Code of Conduct Policy and Procedure

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the standards of conduct expected of students at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") and the procedure the College follows in responding to alleged misconduct. It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

Students are expected to meet and adhere to this Code of Conduct while completing a program of study at OSOCAT. Where a student requires clarification of any provision of this Code, the student should request it from the College. In this policy, "student" means a person who is presently enrolled at OSOCAT.

2. Scope of Application

This Code applies while on OSOCAT premises, during classes and scheduled learning activities, during internship or work placement, at activities or events hosted by the College, and in communications through College email, the learning management system and online learning platforms.

3. Policy — Standards of Conduct

While on OSOCAT premises or during activities or events hosted by the College, students:

  • Must comply with all applicable OSOCAT policies, including the Student Attendance Policy.

  • Must treat all students, employees, instructors, contractors and visitors with respect, and must not engage in physically aggressive, threatening, harassing, discriminatory or otherwise offensive behaviour. Such conduct will be dealt with in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the College's Anti-Racism, Discrimination and Harassment Policy.

  • Must not steal, misuse, destroy or deface College property.

  • Must not consume, possess or distribute alcohol, cannabis, or controlled or restricted substances on college premises, and must not attend class or placement under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Must not possess a weapon on college premises.

  • Must not contravene any provision of the Criminal Code (Canada) or any other federal, provincial, or municipal statute or regulation.

  • Must speak English during class. Speaking in non-English languages during class is prohibited unless permission is obtained from the instructor.

  • Must not sleep, listen to music, play games, use cell phones, or read material unrelated to the course during class time. Cell phones must be turned off during class. Students who are unable to participate may be asked to leave.

  • Must not use an electronic dictionary in the classroom unless the instructor permits it for a specific purpose.

  • Must not engage in academic dishonesty, including cheating and plagiarism, which is addressed under the Academic Honesty Policy.

  • Must observe the College's Smoking Policy.

  • Must clean up after themselves to help keep the College clean.

Students who damage College property will be responsible for the cost of the damage and may be subject to further action depending on the severity of the incident.

The list above describes prohibited conduct on OSOCAT premises. It is intended to help students understand the types of conduct subject to discipline and is not exhaustive. Violations of the Student Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary procedures up to and including expulsion.

4. Procedure

  1. All concerns relating to student misconduct shall be directed to the College. Concerns may be brought forward by employees, instructors, students, contractors or members of the public.

  2. The College will arrange to meet with the student within five (5) business days of receiving the concern. Where the alleged conduct is serious, the College may consider immediate suspension pending investigation, or immediate expulsion in accordance with the Student Expulsion Policy.

  3. Further enquiries or investigation will be conducted to substantiate the concerns.

  4. The investigation will be completed within five (5) business days of the initial meeting.

  5. The College will meet with the student and may determine that the concerns are unsubstantiated, or that the concerns are substantiated and, in that case, may: (a) issue a verbal warning; (b) issue a written warning setting out the consequences of further misconduct; (c) set a probationary period with conditions; or (d) recommend expulsion from the College in accordance with the Student Expulsion Policy.

  6. A written summary of the determination will be prepared, provided to the student, and placed in the student file.

  7. Where a warning or probation is issued, the student and the College representative will sign the document. A copy is provided to the student, and the original is placed in the student file.

  8. Where expulsion is recommended, the matter proceeds under the Student Expulsion Policy, including the notification and appeal provisions of that policy.

  9. Any refund due to an expelled student will be calculated and paid in accordance with the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure and O. Reg. 415/06.

  10. Tuition or fees owed to the College may be collected by the College.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Academic Honesty Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the standard of academic honesty required of all students at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"), and the disciplinary action that follows an act of academic dishonesty. It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

Academic honesty is expected and required of all OSOCAT students. Any act of academic dishonesty, including cheating and plagiarism, is considered a serious offence.

2. Cheating

Cheating occurs when a student uses or attempts to use unauthorized aids, assistance, materials, or methods.

Examples of Cheating:

  • Providing information to or obtaining it from another student during an exam or quiz without authorization

  • Unauthorized use of materials such as devices, textbooks, notes, or formula lists during exams or quizzes

  • Storing answers in a calculator or other device for use by oneself or others during exams or quizzes

  • Submitting take-home exams or assignments completed in whole or in part by someone else as one's own

  • Submitting the same assignment for grading in more than one course without prior instructor permission

  • Submitting a co-authored assignment without prior instructor permission

3. Plagiarism

Plagiarism occurs when a student represents the words or ideas of others as their own.

Examples of Plagiarism:

  • Borrowing ideas, theories, illustrations, data, or language without proper quoting and citation

  • Paraphrasing substantially without acknowledging the source

  • Combining one's own words with substantial uncited or insufficiently cited phrases

  • Using synonyms to change words in sourced phrases and presenting them as original

  • Failing to cite the correct source of quotations

  • Not acknowledging co-authors' contributions where appropriate

  • Submitting assignments previously graded in other courses without disclosure

4. Working with a Study Partner or Group

Collaborative learning is encouraged as part of the learning process. However:

  • Students must ensure the work they submit is their own and is fully understood by them

  • Students must not provide answers or work to others that those others do not understand

  • Where an instructor requires independent work, collaborating constitutes academic dishonesty

5. Disciplinary Action

If it is determined that a student committed an act of academic dishonesty, the College will proceed with disciplinary action in the following manner:

  1. For a first offence, the assignment, quiz, exam, essay, project, or other work involved will be awarded a grade of zero ("0"), to be incorporated into the calculation of the final grade.

  2. For a second offence, the assignment, quiz, exam, essay, project, or other work involved will be awarded a grade of zero ("0"), to be incorporated into the calculation of the final grade, and the student may receive a grade of Fail for the course.

  3. For any further offence, the student may be expelled from OSOCAT in accordance with the Student Expulsion Policy.

A record of all disciplinary action taken in connection with academic dishonesty will be kept in the offending student's official file in accordance with the Retention of Student Records Policy.

A student who wishes to dispute a determination of academic dishonesty may do so through the Student Complaint Policy and Procedure. A student who wishes to dispute the resulting grade may do so through the Grade Appeal Policy.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Admission and Language Proficiency Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the admission requirements and the English language proficiency requirements at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"). It applies to all applicants to, and students enrolled in, any vocational program offered by the College.

OSOCAT has a responsibility to ensure that students are admitted in accordance with the admission requirements approved by the Superintendent of Career Colleges for each vocational program. The College will not admit a student to a vocational program unless the student meets the admission requirements for that program as approved by the Superintendent and published on Service Ontario.

2. Policy

  1. Admission requirements for each vocational program are those approved by the Superintendent of Career Colleges and are published on Service Ontario and in the student enrolment contract.

  2. OSOCAT will not impose undue pressure on, coerce or otherwise require a student to obtain a product or service from a particular person, including the College and any of its affiliates, as a requirement for admission to a vocational program.

  3. Applicants who knowingly or in error misrepresent their applications are subject to expulsion in accordance with the Student Expulsion Policy.

  4. Where a student is admitted on the condition that the student meet specified admission requirements before the program start date and the student does not meet those requirements before that date, the student is entitled to a refund of all fees paid except the service fee, in accordance with the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

  5. Where a student does not meet the program's admission requirements when the program starts, the student is entitled to a refund of all fees paid except the service fee, in accordance with the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

3. English Language Proficiency

All instruction, learning activities and assessment at OSOCAT are conducted in English. It is therefore essential that all students possess acceptable writing, comprehension, and speaking skills in English in order to meet the academic demands of, and to successfully complete, the College's vocational programs.

If English is not the applicant's first language, or if the applicant's previous education was conducted in another language, the applicant must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting evidence of one of the following, at a level appropriate for the program to which the applicant is applying:

  • Completion of Grade 12 or its equivalent in an English language school system where English is the primary language of instruction and evaluation, with acceptable grades in all English courses;

  • Completion of a minimum of two full years of successful study in an accredited university degree program or college diploma program in a country and institution where English is the primary language of instruction;

  • Submission of test results, with scores meeting the program requirements approved by the Superintendent, from one of the following: Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB); Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL); International English Language Testing System (IELTS); or another recognized English language test accepted by the College; or

  • Successful completion of the OSOCAT English language placement assessment with the required score for the program.

Applicants who do not provide proof of English proficiency are required to complete the OSOCAT English language placement assessment and may be offered a conditional offer of admission pending the result.

Where the College administers an admissions test, any fee charged for that test forms part of the service fee and is subject to the limits set out in the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

4. English in the Classroom

Students are encouraged to communicate in English with one another. Students must speak English in the classroom and when engaging with an instructor, unless the instructor has given permission otherwise for a specific purpose. This requirement supports the learning outcomes of the program and is reflected in the Student Code of Conduct.

In case of any questions regarding admission or language proficiency requirements or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca or admission@osocat.ca

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Student Attendance Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the attendance policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"). It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

OSOCAT has established standards of scholastic progress to foster student success, considering these standards as valid indicators of successful progress toward graduation. Given the condensed learning format, every moment of class time is crucial and is therefore scheduled. In alignment with the commitment to student success, this policy outlines the expectations for attendance.

2. Policy and Procedure

OSOCAT encourages all students to attend scheduled learning activities to support their progression toward graduation.

  • Encouraging Attendance: In compliance with regulating bodies, OSOCAT encourages regular attendance as integral to program completion.

  • Responsibility for Missed Classes: Students scheduled for classes must attend each scheduled class and are responsible for fulfilling course requirements missed during absences.

  • Notification of Absence: Students must notify the College of absences.

  • Attendance Monitoring: The College will run daily attendance reports for all classes. Attendance records are kept in each student's file.

  • Contacting Absent Students: OSOCAT will attempt to contact students to assess reasons for absences.

  • Absence Engagement Protocol: OSOCAT will establish an escalating engagement protocol based on days absent.

  • Medical Documentation: Students with medical documentation must return by the 15th day of absence or be withdrawn.

  • Refunds: Where a refund is required, it will be calculated and paid in accordance with the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure and O. Reg. 415/06.

  • Academic Probation: Students missing five consecutive days may be placed on Academic Probation and must develop a Student Success Plan upon return.

  • Further Absences During Probation: Students on Academic Probation missing another five consecutive days may be withdrawn at the discretion of the College.

  • Course Repetition: Students missing more than 40% of a course must repeat it.

  • Expulsion: Repeated failures to attend or maintain academic progression may result in expulsion in accordance with the Student Expulsion Policy.

  • Documentation for Absences: Students missing five or ten consecutive days must provide valid documentation. Failure to do so will result in withdrawal and potential expulsion.

  • Documentation: Valid documents must be entered into the student file.

  • Re-starting Program: Students absent for valid reasons beyond their control may apply to re-start their program.

  • Course Miss and Marks: Students with valid documentation missing a course will receive a mark of "0" unless they miss 40% of their program or receive four failures.

  • Lateness: Lateness is disruptive; instructors may refuse entry until a scheduled break. Two late arrivals will count as one absent day.

  • Orientation and Onboarding: Attendance rules and regulations will be explained during student orientation.

  • Internship Attendance: Students must attend all scheduled internship or work placement hours.

  • Termination for Absences: Missing internship or work placement time may result in termination of the placement.

  • Internship Timesheets: Timesheets must be submitted every Monday at noon.

3. Valid and Invalid Reasons for Absence

Valid reasons: Illness, family emergency, child-care issues, care of elderly or infirm relatives, family breakdown, and homelessness.

Invalid reasons: Holiday booked, wedding planned, booked surgery, or pregnancy where the absence could reasonably have been scheduled outside of class time.

Absences due to illness must be accompanied by a medical note. Students who submit a medical note may request missed class information from their instructors.

4. Absence from a Scheduled Evaluation

Students with valid documented absences who miss a scheduled test or examination may be permitted to complete an alternate assessment at the discretion of the College. An alternate assessment must be completed within seven (7) business days of the original date and will be supervised by College staff.

5. Contract Cancellation for Non-Attendance

It is a condition of the contract between the student and OSOCAT that the College may cancel the contract within the first 45 days of the program start date specified in the contract if the student does not attend the program within the first 14 days following the program start date. Where the College cancels a contract on this basis, it will give written notice of the cancellation and will refund all fees paid except the service fee, in accordance with the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

Note on attendance and refunds

Where a student is withdrawn or expelled for failure to meet the attendance requirements of this policy, any refund owing is determined solely by the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure and sections 25 to 33 of O. Reg. 415/06. Attendance-based withdrawal does not remove a student's entitlement to a refund calculated under those provisions.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any attendance related concern or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Academic Progress and Evaluation Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the standards of satisfactory academic progress at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"), the procedure for identifying students who are not meeting those standards, and the College's obligation to evaluate and inform students of their progress. It applies to all students enrolled in a vocational program at OSOCAT.

2. Mid-Point Progress Evaluation

It is a condition of the approval of every vocational program that OSOCAT inform each student enrolled in the program of the result of an evaluation of the student's progress, in writing, before the mid-point of the program. This requirement is set out in section 12 of O. Reg. 415/06 and is a mandatory obligation of the College.

  1. Where a vocational program is scheduled to be up to 12 months in duration, the student is entitled to at least one evaluation of progress before half of the scheduled hours of instruction for the program have taken place.

  2. Where a vocational program is scheduled to be more than 12 months in duration, the College divides the hours of instruction into study periods and conducts an evaluation before half of the hours of instruction in the initial 12-month period have been completed, and before the half-way point of each subsequent study period.

  3. Every mid-point evaluation is provided to the student in writing, and a copy is placed in the student file.

  4. Where OSOCAT fails to provide a required progress evaluation in writing before the mid-point, the student is entitled to a refund of all fees paid for the program in accordance with the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

The College is encouraged to take advantage of other appropriate opportunities to review a student's progress before the mid-point in order to keep students informed of their academic status.

3. Satisfactory Academic Progress

Student records are reviewed on an ongoing basis. A student who is not meeting the standards of satisfactory academic progress for their program may be placed on Academic Probation.

  1. A student placed on Academic Probation will be notified in writing and will be required to develop a Student Success Plan with the College.

  2. The Student Success Plan will identify the standards the student must meet and the period within which the student must meet them.

  3. A student who does not meet the conditions of Academic Probation within the period specified may be withdrawn from the program or expelled in accordance with the Student Expulsion Policy.

  4. Students who fail to achieve the required academic standing in their program may be expelled from the program. OSOCAT may at its discretion offer alternatives to a student.

4. Qualifications of Instructional Staff

OSOCAT will ensure that instruction is delivered by instructors who are qualified in accordance with section 41 of O. Reg. 415/06. Where a student receives instruction from an instructor who is not qualified under section 41 for more than 10 per cent of the program's duration, the student is entitled to a refund of all fees paid for the program in accordance with the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

In case of any questions regarding academic progress or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Examination and Grades Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out how student learning is assessed and how grades are determined and communicated at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"). It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

2. Policy

  1. Instructors will provide students with a course outline on the first day of class, which will clearly set out how grades will be allocated in the course, the scheduled assessments, and the assignment due dates.

  2. Assessment methods and weightings are those approved for the vocational program.

  3. Most courses include a mid-course assessment and a final assessment. Scheduled dates are published in the course outline.

  4. Most courses also allocate grades to homework and to participation. Students should understand that all assignments are important. Marks given for participation are not merely for attendance but also take into consideration behaviour in class and verbal participation in question-and-answer periods throughout the course.

  5. Students are entitled to a written evaluation of their progress before the mid-point of the program, in accordance with the Academic Progress and Evaluation Policy.

3. Missed Examinations

Students who miss a scheduled examination will only be permitted to write an alternate examination within a seven (7) business day period if they:

  • Provide a valid medical note; or

  • Are dealing with extenuating circumstances.

Students in such situations must contact the College as soon as possible to explain their circumstances. The decision to permit an alternate examination lies at the discretion of the College. Alternate examinations are supervised by College staff.

Students planning to travel are strongly advised to book travel departing after the final examination period for their program.

4. Viewing of Examinations

After an examination is complete and has been submitted to the College office, students may request to view their examination through the following procedure:

  • Prior to final grades being released: examinations may be viewed only with the presence and consent of the instructor, within five (5) business days of writing the examination.

  • Following the release of final grades: examinations may be viewed by scheduling a time with the College. The request must be made in writing.

In case of any questions regarding examinations or grades or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Grade Appeal Policy and Procedure

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for a student to appeal a grade. It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

OSOCAT understands the importance of ongoing assessment, and as a result, instructors and students will continually discuss grades as well as core course concepts. Where there is a discrepancy in the grade assigned to a student, the procedure set out in this policy is to be followed.

2. Policy

  1. Appeals of grades must be made within fifteen (15) business days of the release of the grade. Students are notified when grades are released.

  2. A student may be represented by an agent or a lawyer in an appeal under this policy.

  3. A student will not be subject to any form of retaliation as a result of bringing an appeal under this policy.

  4. A separate appeal must be submitted for each course.

3. Grounds for Appeal

A grade may be appealed on the following grounds:

  • A human error or miscalculation of the grade; or

  • The grade awarded does not fairly reflect the student's academic performance.

4. Procedure

Step 1 — Discussion with the Instructor

If a student is dissatisfied with a grade received and can provide evidence that a higher grade is warranted, the student should discuss it with the instructor. The instructor will reconsider the grade and, if warranted, assign a different grade. Students should review the criteria for grading of assignments, essays and examinations with the instructor.

Step 2 — Formal Appeal

If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of the appeal to the instructor, the student should complete the College's Grade Appeal Form and submit it to the College. Before submitting the form, students should note the following:

  • An application fee is required when submitting the form. This fee will be refunded if the grade is raised.

  • A separate form must be submitted for each course.

  • All assignments, essays, and examinations to be reviewed must be attached to the application form.

The College will arrange for another instructor to reassess the work.

  1. If the student achieves a higher grade on reassessment, the higher grade will be assigned to the student, and the application fee will be refunded.

  2. If the student achieves a lower grade on reassessment, the original grade will be retained.

  3. The decision on the grade appeal will be provided to the student within thirty (30) days of the College's receipt of the written appeal. The grade determined on reassessment is final.

A fee charged for rewriting an examination or for an appeal is an optional fee within the meaning of O. Reg. 415/06 and is subject to the requirement that it be disclosed to and published by the Superintendent before it is charged or collected.

In case of any questions regarding a grade appeal or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Late Assignment Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") governing the acceptance of assignments submitted after the due date. It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

At OSOCAT it is expected that all written assignments will be completed and submitted on time. All assignments are due on the date indicated in the course outline or as communicated by the instructor. Students are responsible for taking note of assignment due dates.

2. Policy

  1. Extensions may be granted by instructors in the event of a student's serious illness, in the event of death or serious illness in the student's immediate family, or in similar extenuating circumstances.

  2. Requests for an extension should be made through communication with the instructor. Requests must be accompanied by appropriate documentation (for example, a medical note). Instructors will consider the appropriateness of each request and the fairness of any extension to other students registered in the course.

  3. If an extension is granted, a new due date will be assigned.

  4. Assignments submitted past the due date where approval to do so has not been granted will be penalized 5% of the total value of the assignment for each weekday the assignment is late.

  5. No assigned work will be accepted after the last day of classes for the course unless an extension has been granted.

  6. All late assignments must be submitted to the College office, where they will be date-stamped on receipt and forwarded to the instructor.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Student Withdrawal Policy and Procedure

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") where a student wishes to withdraw from a vocational program or to cancel their contract with the College. It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

A student may withdraw from a program or cancel a contract for any reason and does not have to explain their decision when providing notice. However, the student must deliver a written notice of withdrawal or cancellation to the College in order to be eligible for a refund.

2. Policy

  1. A notice of withdrawal or cancellation must be delivered directly to the College, and not to an instructor.

  2. A notice of withdrawal or cancellation must be sent by email, fax, courier, or registered mail.

  3. Students should keep a copy of the notice and any delivery confirmation.

  4. A notice of withdrawal or cancellation delivered by registered mail is considered to have been received by the College three (3) business days after the day it was mailed.

  5. The date on which the College receives the written notice determines the refund owing to the student under the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

  6. A student who wishes to withdraw should also complete the College's Withdrawal Form and return their student identification card to the College office.

3. Cooling-Off Period

A student may rescind (cancel) their contract with OSOCAT, without reason, within two (2) days of receiving a copy of the signed contract. Where a student rescinds the contract within this period, the College will refund all fees paid for the program. This right is set out in section 36 of the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 and is reflected in the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

4. International Students Unable to Obtain a Study Permit

A notice provided to the College by or on behalf of an international student or prospective international student stating that the student has not been issued a temporary resident visa as a member of the student class under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) is deemed to be written notice that the student is rescinding the contract or withdrawing from the program. Refunds in these circumstances are processed in accordance with the international student provisions of the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

5. Effect of Ceasing to Attend Without Notice

Students who do not deliver a written notice of withdrawal, but who have stopped attending class, or have never attended class, and have not completed any assignments or examinations, will receive a grade based on their performance in the course. Ceasing to attend is not a withdrawal and does not, on its own, trigger a refund. Students who are absent without notice are also subject to the Student Attendance Policy, including the College's right to cancel the contract where the student does not attend within the first 14 days of the program.

In case of any questions regarding withdrawal from a program or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Student Expulsion Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for the expulsion of a student. Students who do not support the academic and ethical goals of the College for themselves and their fellow students may be subject to penalties, up to and including expulsion. In conjunction with this policy, OSOCAT will ensure that students receive and are aware of its Student Code of Conduct, plus its academic and attendance policies. Where no specific policy exists, the College will provide sufficient detail to allow the student to comprehend the conditions that will result in expulsion.

The College will make every reasonable effort to resolve a situation without expulsion. Counselling, verbal warning, written warnings and suspension may precede this final and most serious of actions. Where OSOCAT deems the integrity, safety or wellbeing of other students, staff, visitors, and other guests to be in danger, expulsion may be warranted at any point in the process.

OSOCAT is committed to taking all reasonable steps to ensure that students can successfully complete their programs, and to ensuring that, within this general framework, all students are treated fairly and equitably.

2. Concerning Actions and Conditions

The following conditions and actions by a student may trigger the process and cause of expulsion:

A. Academic Dishonesty

Students may be subject to expulsion at the discretion of OSOCAT for academic dishonesty. Academic dishonesty is any word, action or deed performed alone, or with others, for the direct or indirect intention of providing an unfair advantage or benefit to oneself or other student(s), including:

  • Cheating

  • Plagiarism

  • Unapproved collaboration

  • Alteration of records

  • Bribery

  • Lying

  • Misrepresentations

B. Financial Obligations and Outstanding Fees

Students who fail to remit outstanding fees owed to OSOCAT may be expelled after a written warning has been provided by the College and the student fails to comply within the stated parameters.

C. Code of Conduct

All students are required to adhere to OSOCAT's published Student Code of Conduct. OSOCAT may expel a student who has received a suspension for failure to comply and has since violated any of the terms of the Student Code of Conduct. Students who are found under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, or carrying weapons, will be subject to immediate expulsion.

D. Significant Omissions or Errors in Admissions Documentation

OSOCAT has a responsibility to ensure students have been admitted in accordance with the admission requirements for the program. Students who knowingly or in error misrepresent their applications are subject to immediate expulsion.

E. Academic Failure

Students who fail to achieve the required academic standing in their programs may be expelled from the program. OSOCAT may at its discretion offer alternatives to a student; these are outlined in the Academic Progress and Evaluation Policy.

F. Attendance

Students who do not achieve the required attendance as stated in the Student Attendance Policy are subject to expulsion. Students who are absent from class for more than five consecutive days without sufficient cause may be expelled in accordance with that policy.

G. Harassment or Discrimination

OSOCAT does not condone harassment or discrimination of any student, staff member, client, or visitor. Students participating in harassing or discriminatory activities are subject to immediate suspension pending investigation. Expulsion is mandatory for any student who is determined by investigation to have engaged in harassing or discriminatory activities.

In determining what constitutes harassment or discrimination, OSOCAT refers to the Ontario Human Rights Code. Students requiring more specific information may refer to the Code as posted on the provincial website, and to the College's Anti-Racism, Discrimination and Harassment Policy.

H. Misuse of College Property

College property is for the provision of College services. Students who damage, misuse, steal, or otherwise use the property in a way that is prohibited may be expelled and required to make restitution.

I. Endangerment of Staff or Students

OSOCAT is committed to the safety of all College staff, students, clients, and visitors. Students who by action or neglect in any way endanger the safety of themselves or others may be expelled.

Prior to expulsion, depending on the severity and nature of the situation, OSOCAT may take intermediate steps at its discretion including:

  • Verbal warning

  • Written warning

  • Suspension

  • Expulsion

3. Notifications — Due Process

Students who are subject to expulsion for any reason will be notified in writing, either via digital communication, hand delivery, or registered mail with a return receipt. OSOCAT is not responsible for non-delivery by registered mail if the student has not provided a valid home address where the student currently resides.

The notification will contain a description of the basis for the expulsion and the effective date. The reason for the expulsion must align with this policy. The student will be given a fair opportunity to explain the behaviour and actions in question before the expulsion takes effect.

A student who disputes the facts of the expulsion must appeal the decision within three (3) business days of the notification, following the Student Complaint Policy and Procedure, and providing sufficient information to support the appeal.

Students who file an appeal and are unsuccessful are considered withdrawn from OSOCAT. Further appeals may be filed through the complaints process of the Superintendent of Career Colleges, Ministry of Colleges and Universities, provided the student is attending a vocational program approved under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.

A student who is expelled by OSOCAT will be considered withdrawn from their program on the effective date of the expulsion. OSOCAT will officially withdraw the student and settlement of the student's account will be completed under the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure.

Important — expulsion and refund entitlement

Where a student is expelled for a reason permitted under this policy, the student is entitled to a partial refund calculated under section 27 of O. Reg. 415/06 if the expulsion occurs before the program mid-point.

Where a student is expelled for a reason, or in a manner, that is contrary to this policy or to the College's Sexual Violence Policy, the student is entitled to a refund of ALL fees paid for the program under section 25 of O. Reg. 415/06.

For this reason, the reason for expulsion stated in the notice must align with this policy, and the due process steps above must be followed in every case.

4. Return of Property

A student who is expelled is responsible for the return of any College property in their possession within ten (10) days and will be held financially responsible for any property not returned in good condition or as outlined in the student enrolment contract. OSOCAT may deduct from a student's fee refund, as set out in the enrolment contract, any amount owing by the student with respect to such property, in accordance with section 31 of O. Reg. 415/06.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Graduation and Credentials Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for the award of credentials on completion of a vocational program. It applies to all students enrolled in a vocational program at OSOCAT.

2. Policy

  1. Upon successful completion of all required courses and program requirements, students will be awarded the credential approved by the Superintendent of Career Colleges for that vocational program.

  2. OSOCAT will only grant a credential that has been approved by the Superintendent for the program in question.

  3. The credential will be issued in the name in which the student is registered with the College.

  4. A student who has an outstanding financial obligation to the College may be required to settle the account before a credential is released.

  5. A fee charged for a graduation ceremony, or for a duplicate credential, is an optional fee and must be disclosed to and published by the Superintendent before it is charged or collected.

In case of any questions regarding graduation or credentials or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Fee Refund Policy and Procedure

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the fee refund policy at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"). It applies to all students enrolled in a vocational program at OSOCAT.

This policy is adopted under section 29 of the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005. Sections 25 to 33 of O. Reg. 415/06 are prescribed provisions that every career college is required to include in its fee refund policy. Those provisions are reproduced in this policy and govern in every case.

A copy of this policy is provided to every student and is included in the student enrolment contract. When signing the contract, the student acknowledges that they have received a copy of this policy.

Definitions — section 24(2), O. Reg. 415/06

"earned fees" means the amount of all fees paid for a vocational program that is proportional to the number of instruction hours that have taken place when a withdrawal or expulsion occurs;

"program mid-point" means the point in the progress of a vocational program where half of the scheduled hours of instruction for the program have taken place;

"service fee" means the lesser of 20 per cent of all vocational program fees and $500.

2. Fee Collection

  1. OSOCAT will disclose all fees for its vocational programs to the Superintendent of Career Colleges.

  2. OSOCAT will only charge or collect compulsory or optional program fees that are equal to or less than the amounts approved by the Superintendent.

  3. OSOCAT will not charge or collect fees from students until the fees have been published on Service Ontario. All fees are charged in Canadian dollars.

  4. OSOCAT will issue a receipt and keep a record of the transaction for every payment made by a student.

  5. Before OSOCAT and a student sign a contract, the College may charge a service fee, being the lesser of 20 per cent of the total program fees and $500. This fee may be used to process applications or to give admissions tests and must be included in the enrolment contract.

Fee Types

Compulsory fees are directly related to a vocational program and include (but are not limited to) fees for tuition, books and supplies, administrative charges, field trips, professional examinations, and work placements.

Optional fees are directly related to a vocational program but not every student is required to pay them. These include (but are not limited to) fees for rewriting examinations, additional lessons or class time, graduation ceremonies, and duplicate transcripts or credentials.

Non-program fees are fees not directly related to a vocational program, and could include fees for parking, lockers, NSF cheques, and meal plans. The law does not require this refund policy to cover non-program fees.

3. Full Refunds — Section 25, O. Reg. 415/06

If a student has entered into a contract with a career college for a vocational program, the college shall give a refund of all fees paid for the program in the following circumstances:

  1. The student rescinds (cancels) the contract in writing within two days of receiving a copy of the contract, in accordance with section 36 of the Act.

  2. The college, while continuing to operate, discontinues the vocational program before the student completes the program.

  3. The approval of the vocational program is revoked by the Superintendent.

  4. The college collects any fees in relation to the program before the college was registered or before the program was approved under the Act.

  5. The college collects any fees other than a service fee before the student has entered into a contract with the college.

  6. The student is expelled from the college for a reason, or in a manner, that is contrary to the college's expulsion policy or its sexual violence policy.

  7. The college does not provide the student with the evaluation of the student's progress in writing before the program mid-point, as required.

  8. The contract does not include all of the terms required under the Act.

  9. The student is induced to enter into the contract by an untrue statement that constitutes a fundamental breach of the contract, including a false or misleading statement, image or video; a guarantee of admission to or completion of the program; a guarantee of employment after completing the program; or a statement guaranteeing the right to enter Canada or to receive a visa or work permit.

  10. The student receives instruction from an instructor who is not qualified under section 41 of O. Reg. 415/06 for more than 10 per cent of the program's duration.

A refund under this section is not payable unless the student gives the College a written demand for the refund, except in the case of a rescission under section 36 of the Act.

4. Full Refunds Less the Service Fee — Section 26, O. Reg. 415/06

A career college shall give a refund of all fees paid for a vocational program, except the service fee, in the following circumstances:

  1. The student gives written notice to the college, before the program start date specified in the student's contract with the college, that the student is withdrawing from the program.

  2. The student is admitted to the program on the condition that the student meet specified admission requirements before the program start date specified in the student's contract with the college, and the student does not meet the requirements before that day.

  3. The student does not attend the program within the first 14 days of the program after the program start date specified in the student's contract with the college and is given written notice from the college that the contract is cancelled. The college must give this notice within 45 days of the program start date.

  4. The college receives a notice, before the program mid-point or the mid-point of the first 12-month period, that an international student has not been issued a temporary resident visa as a member of the student class under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada).

5. Partial Refunds — Section 27, O. Reg. 415/06

A career college shall give a student a refund of the fees paid for a vocational program in accordance with this section if:

  • the student withdraws from the program after the program start date specified in the student's contract with the college; or

  • the student is expelled from the program for a reason permitted under the college's expulsion policy.

Programs scheduled to be up to 12 months in duration

  1. If the withdrawal or expulsion occurs before the program mid-point, the College shall give a refund equal to the amount of all fees paid, less the service fee and any earned fees.

  2. If the withdrawal or expulsion occurs after the program mid-point, no refund is required for the program.

Programs scheduled to be more than 12 months in duration

For the initial 12-month period, and for each subsequent period:

  1. If the withdrawal or expulsion occurs before half of the scheduled hours of instruction have taken place for the period, the College shall give a refund equal to the amount of all fees paid for the period, less the service fee and any earned fees.

  2. If the withdrawal or expulsion occurs after half of the scheduled hours of instruction have taken place for the period, no refund is required for that period.

  3. If a period has not yet started at the time of the withdrawal or expulsion, the College shall give a refund of all fees paid for that period.

How OSOCAT calculates earned fees

The length of each OSOCAT vocational program is approved and expressed in hours of instruction. Earned fees are calculated on the hours of instruction delivered at the time the withdrawal or expulsion occurs.

Worked example: A student pays in full for a program that costs $6,000 and includes 100 hours of instruction. The service fee is $500 (the lesser of 20% of $6,000 = $1,200, and $500). The student withdraws after 20 hours of instruction have been delivered. The earned fee for 20 hours is $1,200.

Refund = $6,000 (paid) − $500 (service fee) − $1,200 (earned fees) = $4,300.

OSOCAT tracks student participation in order to identify the training hours delivered and to determine the earned fee for the refund calculation.

6. Refund of Compulsory Fees — Section 28, O. Reg. 415/06

  1. A career college may only charge or collect compulsory fees in relation to a vocational program after the fees have been published by the Superintendent under subsection 43(2) of the Act.

  2. If a career college collects a compulsory fee that has not been published by the Superintendent, the college shall give a refund of the fee to the student on written request from the student.

7. No Retention of Refund — Section 29, O. Reg. 415/06

A career college shall not retain any refund of fees payable to a student under sections 25 to 28 in order to recover or set off an amount a student owes the college for any service or program other than a vocational program offered by the college.

8. Timing of Refunds — Section 30, O. Reg. 415/06

A refund payable by the career college must be issued to students within 30 days after the day a student:

  • delivers a written notice to withdraw from the program to the college;

  • is given a written notice of expulsion by the college; or

  • delivers a written request for a refund to the college under subsection 28(2).

9. Treatment of Books and Equipment — Section 31, O. Reg. 415/06

In calculating a refund under sections 25 to 28, a career college may retain the retail cost of books or equipment that the career college supplied to the student if the student:

  • fails to return the books or equipment to the career college within 10 days of the student's withdrawal or expulsion from the program; or

  • returns the books or equipment to the career college within the 10-day period referred to above, but fails to return it unopened or in the same state it was in when supplied.

10. Notice of Withdrawal for International Students — Section 32, O. Reg. 415/06

A notice to a career college that is provided by or on behalf of an international student or of a prospective international student, and that states that the student has not been issued a temporary resident visa as a member of the student class under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada), is deemed to be written notice to the college that the student is rescinding (cancelling) the contract under section 36 of the Act or withdrawing from the program.

Where such a notice is received before the program mid-point or the mid-point of the first 12-month period, the international student is entitled to a refund of all fees paid except the service fee. This applies even if instruction hours were delivered before the notice of withdrawal.

11. Currency — Section 33, O. Reg. 415/06

Any refund of fees that a career college is required to pay under the Act shall be paid in Canadian dollars.

12. Procedure for Requesting a Refund

  1. The student delivers a written notice of withdrawal, or a written demand for a refund, directly to the College (not to an instructor), by email, fax, courier or registered mail.

  2. Written notice should be sent to admin@osocat.ca The student should retain a copy of the notice and any delivery confirmation.

  3. The College acknowledges receipt of the notice and determines the refund owing in accordance with sections 25 to 33 of O. Reg. 415/06 as set out above.

  4. The College issues the refund in Canadian dollars within 30 days of the triggering event set out in section 8 of this policy.

  5. The College provides the student with a written statement showing how the refund was calculated, including the fees paid, the service fee, the earned fees, and the amount refunded.

13. Sponsors and Third-Party Payments

Where fees have been paid to OSOCAT by a third party on behalf of a student, any refund will be paid to the person who paid the fees, in accordance with the requirements of the Act and applicable federal anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing legislation. Nothing in this section limits the College's obligation to issue a refund within the time required by section 30 of O. Reg. 415/06.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or a refund or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Fee Payment Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out how fees are paid at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"). It applies to all students enrolled in a vocational program at OSOCAT. This policy is subject in all respects to the Fee Refund Policy and Procedure and to sections 24 to 33 of O. Reg. 415/06.

Regulatory limits that govern this policy

OSOCAT may not charge or collect any fee that has not been disclosed to, and published by, the Superintendent of Career Colleges.

Before a contract is signed, OSOCAT may collect only the service fee — the lesser of 20% of all program fees and $500. No other fee may be collected before the student enters into a contract.

Any fee collected in advance of registration or program approval must be refunded in full.

The College's right to restrict a student's participation for non-payment does not override the student's refund entitlements under O. Reg. 415/06.

2. Payment Options

Students at OSOCAT have the following options for the payment of fees. The specific amounts, instalments and due dates applicable to a student are set out in that student's enrolment contract.

Option 1 — Full Payment Before Program Start

Students who pay their full program fees before the program start date directly to the College may receive a discount, where such a discount has been disclosed to the Superintendent and is set out in the enrolment contract.

Option 2 — Instalment Plan

Students who prefer to pay in instalments must follow the payment schedule set out in their enrolment contract. Students must adhere to instalment deadlines to maintain their enrolment status. Where a program includes a work placement, any placement fee must be paid before the start of the placement.

Special Consideration

If a student is unable to meet an instalment deadline, they may submit a formal request to the College for special payment arrangements. Approval of a special request is at the discretion of the College, based on the student's academic standing and financial situation.

3. Accepted Payment Methods

Students may submit fees through the following methods:

  • Bank transfer (details provided by the College upon request)

  • Certified cheque or bank draft payable to the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology

  • Electronic transfer (details provided by the College upon request)

Proof of payment must be submitted to the College at admin@osocat.ca OSOCAT will issue a receipt and keep a record of the transaction for every payment made.

4. Late Payment

  1. All students must pay their fees according to the schedule set out in their enrolment contract.

  2. A late payment charge may be applied to an overdue payment only where that charge has been disclosed to and published by the Superintendent and is set out in the enrolment contract.

  3. Where a payment remains outstanding, the College will contact the student in writing and will seek to make arrangements before taking any further step.

  4. Where an account remains in arrears, the student may be restricted from participating in scheduled learning activities and assessments until the account is settled.

  5. Continued failure to remit outstanding fees, after a written warning has been provided and the student fails to comply within the stated parameters, may result in expulsion in accordance with the Student Expulsion Policy.

A student who is expelled for non-payment is entitled to a refund calculated under section 27 of O. Reg. 415/06 where the expulsion occurs before the program mid-point. The College may not retain a refund payable under sections 25 to 28 in order to set off amounts owing for any service or program other than a vocational program.

5. Financial Assistance

For any payment-related concern or to discuss payment arrangements, students may contact admin@osocat.ca

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Sexual Violence Policy and Procedure (Students)

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for responding to sexual violence involving students. It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

OSOCAT is committed to the prevention of, and appropriate response to, sexual violence. This policy is established in accordance with the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 and addresses sexual violence involving students.

This policy is read together with the Employee Sexual Violence / Harassment Policy, which sets out the College's rules and disciplinary measures with respect to sexual behaviour involving employees and students, as required as a condition of registration.

2. Definition

Sexual violence refers to a spectrum of non-consensual sexual contact and behaviour including the following:

  • sexual assault;

  • sexual exploitation;

  • sexual harassment;

  • stalking;

  • indecent exposure;

  • voyeurism;

  • the distribution of a sexually explicit photograph or video of a person to one or more persons other than the person in the photograph or video without the consent of the person in the photograph or video and with the intent to distress that person;

  • the attempt to commit an act of sexual violence; and

  • the threat to commit an act of sexual violence.

3. Complaints and Reports

A Complaint of sexual violence is different from a Report of sexual violence.

A Complaint is when the victim/survivor discloses or chooses to tell someone at the institution of an incident of sexual violence in order to seek support but may not want to make a formal report to police or to the institution.

A Report is a formal notification of an incident of sexual violence to someone at the institution accompanied by a request for action. A Report does not have to be made by the victim/survivor.

A student making a Complaint will be provided with resolution options and, if appropriate, accommodation, and will not be required or pressured to make a Report.

4. Making a Complaint

The process for making a Complaint about sexual violence involving a student is as follows:

a. A student may make a complaint, any grievances by contacting at admin@osocat.ca

b. If that person is unavailable or is named in the Complaint, the student may contact Registrar in person or via email to admin@osocat.ca

5. Responding to a Complaint

  1. The College will acknowledge receipt of the Complaint within two (2) business days.

  2. The College will meet with the student within three (3) business days to: assess immediate safety or health needs; provide appropriate accommodations (for example, academic flexibility, class scheduling adjustments, no-contact directives); offer information about internal and external supports (counselling, advocacy, legal aid, medical services); and clarify the difference between a Complaint and a Report.

  3. Confidentiality: information will remain confidential except where disclosure is required to prevent imminent risk of harm, to meet legal obligations, or to ensure fairness if the Complaint becomes a Report.

Outcome of a Complaint:

  • Complaints remain informal unless the student elects to file a Report.

  • Outcomes may include accommodations, referrals, and support measures.

  • No disciplinary action is taken solely on the basis of a Complaint.

6. Making a Report

A Report may be submitted in writing to registrar in person or at email at admin@osocat.ca. Where that person is unavailable or is named in the Report, it may be submitted to campus coordinator.

7. Responding to a Report

  1. The College will review the Report within four (4) business days and provide written confirmation of the subsequent steps to the person who submitted the Report.

  2. An investigation will be initiated.

  3. The College will maintain regular communication with all parties involved throughout the investigation.

  4. All parties will be allowed to provide information for consideration.

  5. The final decision will be communicated in writing to all relevant parties.

8. In All Instances

In all instances the College will:

  • Ensure the safety of the victim/survivor.

  • As appropriate, provide emergency numbers for on- and off-campus security, law enforcement, medical assistance, mental health services, and other services.

  • Respect the right of the individual to choose the services they consider most appropriate.

9. Retaliation Prohibited

It is contrary to this policy for the College to retaliate, engage in reprisals or threaten to retaliate in relation to a Complaint or a Report.

Any process undertaken pursuant to this policy will be based on the principles of administrative fairness. All parties involved will be treated with dignity and respect.

10. Confidentiality

All information related to a Complaint or Report is confidential and will not be shared without the written consent of the parties, subject to the following exceptions:

  • If an individual is at imminent risk of severe or life-threatening self-harm.

  • If an individual is at imminent risk of harming another.

  • Where there are reasonable grounds to believe that others in the institutional community may be at significant risk of harm based on the information provided.

  • Where reporting is required by law.

  • Where it is necessary to ensure procedural fairness in an investigation or other response to a Complaint or Report.

11. Expulsion Contrary to This Policy

Where a student is expelled from the College for a reason, or in a manner, that is contrary to this policy, the student is entitled to a refund of all fees paid for the program under section 25 of O. Reg. 415/06.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Anti-Racism, Discrimination and Harassment Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for the prevention of, and response to, racism, discrimination and harassment. It is the responsibility of faculty, staff, students, and management to comply with this policy.

OSOCAT is committed to providing a respectful, inclusive, safe and healthy working and learning environment. The College does not condone or tolerate conduct prohibited by this policy. Members of the OSOCAT community found to have engaged in conduct prohibited by this policy will be disciplined, up to and including expulsion from the College, or termination of employment or contract.

This policy is not intended to interfere with the natural course of education and does not infringe upon the right of employees and students to take part in discussions of potentially controversial topics such as religion, age, race, sex and sexual orientation. These are valid topics and, when discussed in a mutually respectful manner, are not limited by this policy.

2. Scope of Application

This policy applies to students, employees, instructors and contractors, in relation to conduct that occurs on OSOCAT premises, during classes, during activities and events hosted by the College, during work placements, and through College email or online learning platforms.

3. Protected Grounds

Discrimination and harassment are prohibited on the protected grounds set out in the Ontario Human Rights Code: age; ancestry, colour, race; citizenship; ethnic origin; place of origin; creed; disability; family status; marital status; gender identity; gender expression; record of offences; sex (including pregnancy and breastfeeding); and sexual orientation. This policy also applies to conduct based on a perceived protected ground, or on association with a person identified by a protected ground.

4. Definitions

Racism: Conduct, comments, practices or policies that treat a person or group unfairly, exclude them, or create hostility because of race, colour, ancestry, Indigenous identity, place of origin, ethnicity, language or culture.

Discrimination: Treating a person differently, negatively or adversely because of a protected ground, or applying a rule or practice that appears neutral but has an adverse effect based on a protected ground.

Harassment: Comments or conduct that a person ought reasonably to know are unwelcome, and that create an intimidating, humiliating, hostile or offensive learning or working environment. Harassment may consist of a single incident or several incidents, and may occur in person or through electronic communication, online platforms or social media. Examples include threats, intimidation or verbal abuse; unwelcome remarks or jokes about a protected ground; the display of offensive images; and inappropriate physical contact.

Sexual Harassment: Comments or conduct of a sexual nature, or based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, by a person who ought reasonably to know that the comment or conduct is unwelcome, and which negatively affects the learning or working environment. Sexual harassment may involve individuals or groups, may be direct or indirect, and may occur on or off campus.

Sexual Violence: Sexual assault, sexual exploitation, stalking, indecent exposure, voyeurism, the distribution of intimate images without consent, sexual harassment, and any other sexual conduct that occurs without consent. Sexual violence involving a student is addressed under the Sexual Violence Policy and Procedure.

Reasonable Person Test: The standard used to assess whether a reasonable person in a similar situation would consider the comment or conduct to be unwelcome, discriminatory or harassing. OSOCAT applies this test in determining whether conduct breaches this policy.

Retaliation: Any adverse action or negative treatment against a person because they made a complaint, acted as a witness, or took part in a process under this policy. Retaliation is prohibited.

5. Responsibilities

The Complaints Officer

The person designated by the College to receive complaints under this policy will:

  • receive complaints made under this policy;

  • provide students with information about how to make a complaint;

  • determine whether a matter proceeds by informal or formal process;

  • meet with the complainant, the respondent and any witnesses;

  • issue a written decision to the parties;

  • determine disciplinary action where a breach is found;

  • notify external authorities in severe cases; and

  • place records of complaints and decisions in the student file in accordance with the Retention of Student Records Policy.

The Senior Officer (Campus Coordinator or Registrar)

The senior officer of the College will:

  • receive a complaint from any person who does not wish to bring the complaint to the Complaints Officer;

  • assume the role of the Complaints Officer in all steps of this policy where the Complaints Officer is the complainant or the respondent, or has a personal interest in the matter; and

  • conduct the third-party review or appoint a reviewer.

A complaint may be made to either the Complaints Officer or the Senior Officer. Where a complaint is made to the Senior Officer, that officer determines whether it is dealt with by the Complaints Officer or by the Senior Officer.

Administrative Staff

  • refer a complaint received to the Student Services Officer or the Senior Officer without delay;

  • provide a student, on request, with information about how to make a complaint and about the student's right to be represented by an agent or a lawyer; and

  • maintain confidentiality.

Instructors, Employees and Contractors

  • comply with this policy;

  • report to the Complaints Officer any conduct that may breach this policy; and

  • maintain confidentiality and take part in any investigation.

Students and Visitors

  • treat all members of the College community with respect;

  • not engage in conduct prohibited by this policy; and

  • maintain confidentiality where they are a party to, or a witness in, a complaint.

6. Procedure

OSOCAT recognizes the importance of confidentiality. The College will respect the rights of both the respondent and the complainant, and will keep proceedings private, disclosing information only where required by law or where necessary to respond to the complaint. Where the complainant wishes to bring forward witnesses, the witnesses will be asked to sign a release form. No fee is charged to a student for making or handling a complaint under this policy. A student may be represented by an agent or a lawyer. A student will not be subject to any form of retaliation as a result of making a complaint.

Informal Process

  1. A person who feels harassed or discriminated against is encouraged to first address the person directly and ask that the behaviour stop.

  2. Where the complainant is uncomfortable doing so, they may seek advice and support from the Complaints Officer without filing a formal complaint. The Complaints Officer will discuss the matter with the complainant and suggest options for informal resolution.

  3. A complainant may choose to pursue either the informal or the formal process at any time.

Formal Process

A formal complaint process will be initiated where the complainant chooses to proceed following an informal meeting, or where the Complaints Officer determines that the nature of the conduct requires a formal complaint.

  1. The complainant provides a written statement setting out the facts of the complaint to the Complaints Officer.

  2. The Complaints Officer meets with the complainant, the respondent and any witnesses. Each party is given the opportunity to provide their account, and the discussions are documented. Informal resolution may still be attempted at any point.

  3. The Complaints Officer issues a written decision to the parties. The written decision will be provided within thirty (30) days of the date the complaint was made.

  4. Where harassment, discrimination or sexual violence is found to have occurred, disciplinary action will be taken based on the merits of the case, up to and including expulsion from the College, or termination of employment or contract.

If either party is dissatisfied with the outcome, they may request a third-party review. The result of the review is binding on both parties.

7. Interim Measures

Pending the outcome of a complaint, the College may put measures in place to protect the safety of the parties, including a direction that the parties have no contact with one another, a change to class schedule, or a temporary restriction on access to the premises. Interim measures are not disciplinary findings.

8. External Authorities

Nothing in this policy prevents a person from contacting the police, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, or the Superintendent of Career Colleges. In severe cases, the College will notify the appropriate external authorities for further investigation.

A student who is dissatisfied with the determination may file a complaint with the Superintendent of Career Colleges, Ministry of Colleges and Universities, 77 Wellesley Street West, Box 977, Toronto, Ontario M7A 1N3, or through PARIS at https://www.pcc.tcu.gov.on.ca/PARISExtWeb/public/login.xhtml.

9. Records

Records of complaints, decisions and disciplinary action taken under this policy are maintained in accordance with the Retention of Student Records Policy.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Retention of Student Records Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for the creation, maintenance, retention and disposal of student records. It applies to all students enrolled at OSOCAT in any course or program offered by the College.

OSOCAT is committed to maintaining student files in such a way that data can be accessed when needed and that all required documentation is stored safely and privately, in accordance with section 45 of O. Reg. 415/06 and applicable privacy legislation.

2. Policy

  1. Every student at OSOCAT must have a student file, which may be maintained in paper form, electronic form, or both.

  2. OSOCAT will retain a physical or electronic copy of the student's enrolment contract for at least three years after the date the student ceases to be a student at the College, as required by section 23 of O. Reg. 415/06.

  3. OSOCAT will maintain student records in accordance with the requirements of section 45 of O. Reg. 415/06 and will make them available to the Superintendent on request.

  4. Student records are maintained securely, and access is restricted to authorized College personnel.

  5. Personal information is collected, used and disclosed in accordance with applicable privacy legislation, and only for purposes related to the student's enrolment and the College's regulatory obligations.

3. Contents of the Student File

Each student file is to contain the following documents, where applicable:

  • The signed student enrolment contract;

  • Evidence that the student met the admission requirements approved for the program, including the results of any admissions or language placement assessment;

  • Transcripts or credentials from institutions the student attended prior to OSOCAT, where relied upon for admission;

  • A copy of the student's identification and, for international students, a copy of the study permit;

  • Records of all fees paid, including receipts issued for every payment;

  • The written mid-point progress evaluation provided to the student, and any subsequent progress evaluations;

  • Attendance records;

  • Grades and assessment records;

  • Any Student Success Plan and records of Academic Probation;

  • Records of any warning, probation, suspension, or expulsion, and the written summary of any determination;

  • Incident reports, where applicable;

  • Records of any complaint made under any College policy and the written decision;

  • Any grade appeal and its outcome;

  • Any notice of withdrawal or notice of expulsion, and the refund calculation and payment record;

  • A copy of any credential awarded;

  • Copies of any transcripts or letters prepared at the student's request;

  • Copies of written communication exchanged between the student and the College;

  • The student's contact information.

4. Student Access to Records

Students may request to view their file at any time, free of charge. Students may request transcripts and letters in accordance with the Transcripts and Letters Policy.

5. Retention and Storage

After a student withdraws, is expelled, graduates, or otherwise ceases to be a student, the College will:

  1. Prepare a final transcript and place it in the student's file;

  2. Retain the student's enrolment contract for at least three years after the date the student ceased to be a student, as required by O. Reg. 415/06;

  3. Retain student records for the period required by the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005, its regulations, and any policy directive of the Superintendent; and

  4. Store records securely, with access restricted to authorized College personnel.

Where OSOCAT ceases to operate, student records will be dealt with in accordance with the directions of the Superintendent of Career Colleges and the requirements of the Training Completion Assurance Fund.

In case of any questions regarding student records or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Transcripts and Letters (official documents) Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for student access to transcripts and for the issuing of letters at a student's request. It applies to all students and former students of OSOCAT.

OSOCAT follows the rules and practices prescribed under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 to ensure that its students and former students have access to their transcripts.

2. Policy

  1. Students and former students are entitled to access their transcripts in accordance with the requirements of section 30 of the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 and section 34 of O. Reg. 415/06.

  2. To request a transcript, a student must complete a transcript request form and submit it to the College.

  3. A fee may be charged for a duplicate transcript or credential. A fee for a duplicate transcript is an optional fee and must be disclosed to and published by the Superintendent before it is charged or collected.

  4. Transcripts will include the student's full name, student number, and the results of all courses taken at OSOCAT.

  5. Students may request letters confirming their enrolment or status at the College by completing the appropriate form.

  6. A student who is unable to attend the College in person may submit a request in writing by email.

In case of any questions regarding transcripts or letters or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Health and Safety Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the health and safety policy at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"). It applies to students, employees, instructors, contractors and visitors.

OSOCAT is committed to providing a safe and healthy learning and working environment. Students, staff and instructors will be guided by the College's health and safety policies in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Ontario) and its regulations.

2. Policy

Each member of the OSOCAT community is responsible for their own safety and is expected to be mindful of the wellbeing of co-workers and students. Each person must:

  • Read and understand the OSOCAT policies;

  • Always behave in such a way as not to cause harm to themselves or to others;

  • Immediately report all unsafe acts and conditions to the College office;

  • Report all work-related injuries to the College office;

  • Notify the College office when equipment needs repair or replacement.

3. First Aid

OSOCAT maintains a first aid kit on the premises and staff trained in first aid, in accordance with the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulation 1101 (First Aid Requirements) under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997.

4. Fire and Emergency Preparedness

OSOCAT maintains compliance with all applicable fire regulations under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997 and the Ontario Fire Code. The College participates in fire drills as required and maintains an approved fire safety plan. Emergency escape routes are posted in each classroom for students and staff to familiarize themselves with.

The designated emergency assembly area for the College is parking lot.

5. Security

Where the College operates security cameras, notices are posted to that effect. Visitors and maintenance workers are required to report to the College office on arrival.

In case of any questions regarding health and safety or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Critical Incident and Crisis Management Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out how the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") manages critical incidents and crisis situations. This policy is read together with the OSOCAT Health and Safety Policy.

This policy applies to students, employees, instructors and contractors, and to critical incidents that occur on OSOCAT premises, during the classes or activities, during work placements, or off campus where the incident directly affects OSOCAT students, employees or operations.

2. Definition

A critical incident is a sudden or serious event that threatens the life, health or safety of any member of the OSOCAT community, or that threatens College property or the continued operation of College programs. A crisis is a critical incident that requires the involvement of emergency services, notification of external authorities, or a coordinated response by College’s leadership.

Critical incidents include, but are not limited to, fire or evacuation; serious injury or medical emergency; death; a mental health crisis or risk of self-harm; violence, a threat of violence, or the presence of a weapon; sexual assault; a missing student where there is a concern for safety; and the closure of the building.

3. Responsibilities

Senior Officer

  • leads the College response to a critical incident;

  • is the sole spokesperson for the College, or appoints a spokesperson;

  • approves the closure of the campus and the cancellation of classes; and

  • determines which external authorities are notified.

Designated Campus Contact

  • is the College's point of contact for emergency services;

  • notifies the Senior Officer of a critical incident;

  • coordinates the response affecting students and classes;

  • authorizes contact with a student's emergency contact;

  • arranges support for affected students and employees; and

  • ensures the incident is documented and the record retained.

Office Administration

  • maintains emergency contact information for students and employees;

  • assists with evacuation for students and employees;

  • directs emergency responders to the location of the incident; and

  • completes the record of the incident.

Instructors and Employees

  • take immediate steps to protect the safety of students in their classroom or work area;

  • call 911 where there is a fire, violence, a weapon, a serious injury, a medical emergency or any immediate danger;

  • follow evacuation, lockdown and shelter-in-place instructions, and direct students to the assembly area;

  • report the incident to the College as soon as it is safe to do so; and

  • refer any media inquiry to the Senior Officer.

Students and Visitors

  • follow the instructions of College staff, instructors and emergency responders;

  • report an emergency, threat, injury or unsafe condition to a member of College staff immediately, and call 911 where there is immediate danger;

  • proceed to the assembly area during an evacuation and remain there until released; and

  • not share unverified information about an incident, including the identity of any person involved.

4. Immediate Response

Any person who becomes aware of a critical incident must take the following steps, as appropriate to the circumstances. No person is required to obtain authorization from OSOCAT before calling 911.

  1. Protect life and personal safety and move away from immediate danger where possible.

  2. Call 911 where there is a fire, violence, a weapon, a serious injury, a medical emergency, a sexual assault, an overdose or any immediate danger.

  3. Provide first aid only where trained and where it is safe to do so.

  4. Notify the College as soon as it is safe to do so.

  5. Follow instructions to evacuate, lock down or shelter in place.

  6. Document the incident once immediate safety concerns have been addressed.

5. Emergency Procedures

Fire, Smoke or Explosion

  • Activate the fire alarm where safe to do so and call 911.

  • Evacuate immediately by the posted emergency escape route. Do not use elevators.

  • Proceed to the assembly area and remain there.

  • Do not re-enter the building until emergency services or building management confirm that it is safe.

Medical Emergency

  • Call 911 for any life-threatening condition.

  • Notify the College office and request a staff member trained in first aid.

  • Do not move an injured person unless it is necessary to avoid immediate danger.

Violence, Threat or Weapon

  • Call 911 immediately.

  • Where it is safe to leave the area, evacuate.

  • Where it is not safe to leave, lock down: secure the room, turn off the lights, silence phones, stay away from doors and windows, and remain quiet until the police give instructions.

  • Do not confront an armed or violent person.

Mental Health Crisis or Risk of Self-Harm

  • Call 911 where there is an immediate risk to the person or to others.

  • Do not leave the person alone where there is immediate risk and it is safe to remain.

  • Notify the College as soon as possible.

  • Refer the person to emergency, medical or community support services.

Death of a Student, Employee or Visitor

  • Call 911 immediately.

  • Notify the Senior Officer immediately.

  • Do not notify family, students, employees or the public until the information has been confirmed and the Senior Officer has approved the communication.

Sexual Assault, Racism or Harassment Incident

  • Call 911 where there is violence, a weapon, a sexual assault or other criminal conduct.

  • Notify the College.

  • Respond under the Sexual Violence Policy and Procedure or the Anti-Racism, Discrimination and Harassment Policy, as applicable.

Missing Student

  • Notify the College immediately.

  • Call 911 where there is a concern for the safety of the student.

Building Closure

  • Notify the College office, building management and the Senior Officer.

  • Suspend affected classes or evacuate where the building is unsafe.

  • Communicate the cancellation, relocation or reopening of classes to students and employees.

6. Evacuation, Lockdown and Shelter-in-Place

Evacuation means leaving the building because it may be unsafe to remain. Students, employees and visitors must follow the posted emergency escape routes and the instructions of College’s staff and emergency responders.

Lockdown means securing people inside a room because it may be unsafe to leave. During a lockdown, remain quiet, silence phones, stay away from windows and doors, and wait for instructions from the police.

Shelter-in-place means remaining inside, or moving to a safer interior location, because it may be unsafe to go outside.

7. Communication

OSOCAT will communicate information about a critical incident to students and employees as soon as reasonably possible, while protecting privacy and safety. Communication may be by in-person instruction, email, telephone, the learning management system, a notice on the College website, or a notice posted on campus.

Only the Senior Officer, or a spokesperson appointed by the Senior Officer, may speak publicly on behalf of OSOCAT. Employees, instructors and students who receive a media inquiry must refer it to the Senior Officer.

Unverified information, and the name or condition of any person involved in an incident, must not be shared.

8. Support Following an Incident

Following a critical incident, OSOCAT will refer affected students and employees to emergency medical, counselling or community support services.

9. Documentation

A critical incident is documented once immediate safety concerns have been addressed. The record includes the date, time and location of the incident; the persons involved and any witnesses; a description of what occurred; the actions taken; the emergency services or external authorities contacted; any injury or damage; and the name of the person completing the record.

Incident records are maintained in accordance with the Retention of Student Records Policy. An incident report is placed in the student file where applicable.

10. External Notification

The Senior Officer determines which external authorities are notified of a critical incident. These may include the police, fire or ambulance services, the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, public health authorities, building management, the College's insurance provider, and the Superintendent of Career Colleges.

In an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency after-hours contact with the College, call 311 Services or 905-453-3311.

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Work Placement and Internship Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for work placements and internships that form part of an approved vocational program. It applies to all students enrolled in a program that includes a work placement component.

2. Policy

  1. OSOCAT provides work placements for students enrolled in programs where a placement forms an approved part of the vocational program.

  2. The College ensures that work placements offer students the opportunity to apply and enhance the skills learned during their program.

  3. The College seeks placements with employers committed to supporting student learning.

  4. OSOCAT collaborates with placement hosts to evaluate students' performance during placements.

  5. A fee charged in relation to a work placement is a compulsory fee within the meaning of O. Reg. 415/06 and must be disclosed to and published by the Superintendent before it is charged or collected.

  6. Students must attend all scheduled placement hours. Attendance during placement is governed by the Student Attendance Policy.

3. Procedure

  1. Locating Hosts: Placements are identified through networking and direct contact by College’s staff.

  2. Proposed Training Site: Upon identifying a potential site, the College contacts the host to assess their commitment to student learning and explains expectations for joint evaluation of student performance.

  3. Host Organization Approval: If approved, the host's contact details are added to the College's roster of placement sites.

  4. Placement and Training Plan: When a student is ready, the College contacts the host to discuss the placement and training plan and arranges an interview for the student.

  5. Agreement: Upon a successful interview, the College prepares the Work Placement Agreement and Training Plan, meets with the student to sign them, and files copies. The student delivers the originals to the host.

  6. Follow-up: The College maintains contact with the host at least biweekly and conducts site visits during the placement, documenting all results.

  7. End of Placement Assessment: At the end of the placement, the College, host and student meet to assess the student's performance. The completed assessment is signed by all parties, with copies provided to the host and student, and the original placed in the student file.

4. Insurance and Workplace Injury

Students on a work placement that forms part of an approved vocational program are covered under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997 while on placement. Coverage for unpaid student placements is provided through the Ministry of Colleges and Universities' Work Education Placement Agreement program, where applicable, and is confirmed by the College before the placement begins.

  1. Students must immediately inform the College of any workplace accident, injury or incident, regardless of severity.

  2. Workplace injuries must be reported to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board in accordance with the timelines and requirements of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997.

  3. Copies of all injury documentation are placed in the student file.

  4. Placement hosts are required to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act in respect of students on placement.

Placement coverage — verify before each placement

Insurance arrangements for student placements differ depending on whether the placement is paid or unpaid, and on the agreement in place with the host employer. The College confirms the applicable coverage in writing before each placement begins and records it in the Work Placement Agreement.

In case of any questions regarding work placements or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Smoking and Vaping Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the smoking and vaping policy at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College"). It applies to students, employees, instructors, contractors and visitors.

2. Policy

  1. Smoking and vaping are prohibited anywhere inside OSOCAT premises, in accordance with the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017.

  2. Smoking and vaping are prohibited within nine (9) metres of any entrance or exit of the building, in accordance with the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017.

  3. The prohibition applies to tobacco, cannabis, and electronic cigarettes and vaping products.

  4. Students who fail to observe this policy are subject to the Student Code of Conduct.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

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Evaluation of Instructors Policy

1. Scope and Purpose

This document sets out the policy at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as "OSOCAT" or "the College") for the evaluation of instructors by students.

2. Policy

  1. OSOCAT is committed to providing its students with high quality education and will conduct student evaluations of instructors on a regular basis.

  2. Instructors will be evaluated by students at least once during each program intake in which they teach.

  3. OSOCAT will ensure that all instruction is delivered by instructors qualified in accordance with section 41 of O. Reg. 415/06, and will maintain records of instructor qualifications.

  4. Student evaluations are confidential and are used to support instructor development and the quality of instruction.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or any related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca

Reference

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

Occupational Health and Safety Act

Ontario Human Rights Code

Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), 2000

Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005, S.O. 2005, c. 28, Sched. L

Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 – O. Reg. 415/06: GENERAL

Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005 – O. Reg. 414/06: TRAINING COMPLETION ASSURANCE FUND AND OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS

The development of these policies and procedures is derived, defined and refined on the bases of similar policies and procedures developed by Ontario Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology and Ontario registered career colleges.

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Sexual Violence / Harassment Policy (Employee)

Scope and Purpose

This document set out the employees/students/staff regarding sexual Violence / Harassment policy and procedure at the Ontario School of Commerce and Technology (hereafter referred to as “OSOCAT” or “the College”) for receiving, reviewing, and responding to Violence / Harassment and complaints in instances where no other appropriate policy and procedure address the concern of the grieved party. All the employees, enrolled students, at OSOCAT, in any course or program by the College, and even the former students, when the alleged incident(s), has been occurred and warranted a complaint.

Background and Significance:

On July 1, 2023, Bill 26 amends the Private Career Colleges Act, 2005. Including rules respecting sexual Violence / Harassment toward students by employees of career colleges, and to address related matters. Effective January 1, 2024 the ‘Private Career Colleges Act, 2005’ is amended to the ‘Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.’ Definition of Employee: An employee of OSOCAT is defined as anyone who provides services and/or performs work for wages.

Definition and Scope

Sexual Violence / Harassment is broadly defined as any act that includes sexual harassment, sexual violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sexual exploitation. In relation to a student enrolled at the college, all employees of OSOCAT shall not:

a) Engage in physical sexual relations with a student, touching of a sexual nature with a student or behave or make remarks of a sexual nature towards a student where i. ii. iii. the act constitutes an offence under the Criminal Code (Canada) the act infringes the right of the student under clause 7 (3) (a) of the Human Rights Code to be free from a sexual solicitation or advance, or the act constitutes sexual Violence / Harassment as defined in the OSOCAT employee sexual Violence / Harassment policy or contravenes the policy or any other policy, rule or other requirement of the career college respecting sexual relations between employees and students, or

b) Engage in any conduct that infringes the right of the student under clause 7 (3) (b) of the Human Rights Code to be free from a reprisal or threat of reprisal for the rejection of a sexual solicitation or advance.

2. Discharge or Discipline for Sexual Violence / Harassment If an employee of OSOCAT commits an act of sexual Violence / Harassment toward an enrolled student, the college may discharge or discipline the employee for that act, and,

a) the discharge or disciplinary measure is deemed to be for ‘just cause’ for all purposes;

b) the employee will not be entitled to notice of termination or termination pay or any other compensation or restitution as a result of the discharge or disciplinary measure; and

c) despite subsection 48 (17) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995, and despite any provision of an employment contract specifying a penalty for the infraction, no arbitrator, arbitration board or other adjudicator shall substitute any other penalty for the discharge or disciplinary measure imposed by OSOCAT.

If an employee of OSOCAT commits an act of sexual Violence / Harassment toward a student enrolled at the college and the college discharges the employee for that act or the employee resigns from their employment, OSOCAT shall not subsequently re-employ the employee.

If OSOCAT determines that it has re-employed an individual contrary to subsection (3), the college shall discharge the employee, and clauses (2) (a) to (c) shall apply to the discharge.

Non-disclosure Agreement: Subject to subsection (6), an agreement between OSOCAT and any person, including an agreement settling existing or contemplated litigation, that is entered into on or after the day section 1 of Schedule 2 to the Strengthening Post-secondary Institutions and Students Act, 2022 comes into force, shall not contain any term that, directly or indirectly, prohibits OSOCAT or any person related to the college from disclosing that an allegation or complaint has been made that an employee of OSOCAT committed an act of sexual Violence / Harassment toward a student of college, and any such term that is included in an agreement is void.

Limited Exception: OSOCAT may enter into an agreement that contains a term described in subsection (5) if the student requests that the college do so, provided that,

a) the student has had a reasonable opportunity to receive independent legal advice;

b) there have been no undue attempts to influence the student with respect to the request;

c) the agreement includes an opportunity for the student to decide to waive their own confidentiality in the future and the process for doing so; and d) the agreement is of a set and limited duration.

7. Contrary Terms, Rules, etc. Subsections (2) to (6) apply despite any contrary term in an employment contract or any contrary rule or principle of common law or equity. 8. Requirement of Registration It is a condition of registration that OSOCAT have an Employee Sexual Violence / Harassment Policy that includes at a minimum, a) OSOCAT rules with respect to sexual behavior that involves employees and students enrolled at the college, and b) Disciplinary measures that may be imposed on employees who contravene the policy.

In case of any questions regarding this policy or attendance related concern, please contact at admin@osocat.ca.

  1. Reference

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Occupational Health and Safety Act

Ontario Human Rights Code

Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), 2000 Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005, S.O. 2005, c. 28, Sched. L

Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005, - O. Reg. 415/06: GENERAL

Ontario Career Colleges Act. 2005, - O. Reg. 414/06: TRAINING COMPLETION ASSURANCE FUND AND OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS

The development of this policy and procedure is defined and refined on the similar policies and procedures developed by Ontario Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology and Ontario registered career colleges.

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