PSW Course Requirements

A common question that I receive via e-mail is:

“What are the standard requirements for personal support worker courses in Ontario?”

The most common PSW School requirements are:

High school diploma or GED

In technical terms most schools ask for a OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent. However, some school’s do not require a high school diploma, as they will accept mature students (typically 19 and over). Most mature students will have to take a test before admission that focuses on basic english and math skills

Record of Immunization 

Up to date hepatitis shots. Check with your school to see if they require any other immunization shots.

Current Certification in First-Aid and CPR

The majority of colleges require completion of first-aid and CPR. For more information on obtaining these certifications you can visit

Pass a police check

Submit a clean police check that is no more than one month old at the start of the first semester. For minor infractions such as driving, etc each school may show some leniency. If in question contact the head of your prospective course

Before you apply to a PSW Course try to have the previous four requirements completed and up to date.