1. A recognized degree with at least 120 credit/semester hours of relevant post-secondary education.
2. A minimum of 18 credits in upper-level (third and fourth year) academic courses or 30 credits in any level academic courses in at least one valid teachable subject area.
3. If the applicant lacks the 30 credits (18 upper-level credits) in a teachable area, they may receive 30 credits for their first language (other than English) provided they have:
   • Completed high school and a post-secondary degree in a country where English is the primary medium of instruction.
   • Earned six credits in literature and composition at the post-secondary level in English.
   • A letter from the attended institution may be required to confirm the English language instruction for your program.

Proficiency in English:

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in accordance to the Independent School Teaching Certificate Standards. You can prove proficiency in the English language by meeting one of the following criteria:

• Completed secondary education, including grade 12, in English, in Canada.
• Completed a recognized teacher training program in English, in Canada.
• Completed at least four years of post-secondary education in English, including a recognized teacher training program.
• Have at least three years of verified full-time (or equivalent part-time) K-12 teaching experience in English, in Canada within the five years immediately before applying.
• Have at least three years of verified full-time (or equivalent part-time) K-12 teaching experience in English, in a school where English is the primary language of instruction within the five years immediately before applying.
• We may require documentation or reports to verify your qualifications and teaching experience.

Fitness to Teach:

To qualify for certification, you must demonstrate good moral character and suitability for teaching. This assessment is based on the following documents you provide with your application:

• Completed application forms with personal information.
• Confidential character references.
• Assessment forms and teacher evaluation reports.
• Results of a criminal record check (no more than 12 months old).
• Academic transcripts.
• Statements of standing, if you are certified in another jurisdiction or have taught in a jurisdiction without holding certification there.

OCCIT Certification

• Independent Teaching Credential for Private & International Schools
• The Ottawa-Carleton College of Independent Teachers (OCCIT) issues a private, non-governmental teaching credential based on an independent review of an applicant’s existing qualifications and professional experience.
• This certification is intended exclusively for educators seeking employment in private, independent, and international schools outside Canada.
• Does not qualify individuals to teach in public schools
• Acceptance of this credential is entirely at the discretion of the hiring institution

Purpose of OCCIT Certification

• OCCIT certification serves as a professional credential
• Documents and summarizes verified teaching experience
• Confirms that an applicant meets OCCIT’s independent credentialing standards
• Assists private and international schools in evaluating candidates
• Supports employment applications where government licensing is not required
• OCCIT does not provide job placement services or employment guarantees
• OCCIT certification is issued only after a documented review of existing credentials and experience.
• Verification of academic qualifications
• Review of teaching experience and professional history
• Reference verification
• Identity and background documentation
• Professional review interview (if required)
• No instructional courses, training programs, or teaching preparation are provided as part of this process.
• OCCIT certification is a private, experience-based professional credential issued following an independent review of qualifications and teaching experience, intended for private and international schools