questions and answers
When can I start?
SKILLSMARKER skills assessments and the Learn to Learn orientation course start on most Tuesdays throughout the year. Free ACE courses normally start on the first business day of January, March, April, June, September and November. Note: at busy times of year, we may have a waiting list.
How long does it take?
The 3-step application, skills assessment and orientation process takes 4 to 6 weeks. Once you’ve successfully completed that process, you’re ready to start your first course. You have up to 20 weeks (5 months) to complete each ACE course, one course at a time. Support courses are shorter (6 to 8 weeks).
Do I have to be online at certain times?
No. You are not required to be online at specific times. There are no scheduled lessons with instructors. You have access to course materials and technical support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: your ACE Distance instructor and academic advisor are available for academic support and consultation via email. They will usually respond within 24 business hours.
How long does it take to get assignments marked?
Assignments are normally marked in 5 business days, except at peak times. Our instructors are real people who are here to provide you with individual attention!
How many ACE Distance courses can I take?
You can take one course at a time.
If you complete all the requirements of your first course, and achieve a final grade of at least 70%, then you can register in another free course. You may continue to register in free courses, one at a time, as long as you complete each one with at least a 70% final grade.
If you want to take more than one course at a time, you can for a fee. Email info@cscau.com for more information.
If a course requires a textbook, where do I get it?
We have 2 courses that require textbooks — ACE Physics and ACE Technical Math. When you register for one of these courses, you will receive information on how to obtain your textbook.
What is SKILLSMARKER and why do I have to complete it?
SKILLSMARKER is a required part of the ACE Distance application process. It’s an online assessment that measures your skills in Reading and Numeracy. You must complete SKILLSMARKER so we can advise you whether you’re ready to register and likely to succeed in an ACE Distance course.
See the
SKILLSMARKER
page for more details.
If I'm already attending an ACE program in a college, can I also take an ACE Distance course?
Yes, you can. If you would like to apply for an ACE Distance course while you are also registered in an in-class college academic upgrading/ACE program, you should first discuss it with your advisor in your college program so they are aware. You can then send an email to info@cscau.com to start the application process for ACE Distance.
What does “registering college” mean?
When we’ve confirmed that you’re eligible to register for your first ACE Distance course, you’ll be asked which of Ontario’s public colleges you wish to register with. That’s your “registering college.”
The registering college will issue you a student number, provide access to the online learning platform for your ACE Distance course, and post your final grade so that it appears on an official college transcript.
Why do I need a course outline?
Every ACE Distance course has a course outline that describes the course content, grading scheme, and other information. Often, employers and educational institutions want to know the outcomes you’ve achieved and the material you’ve covered. You should keep a copy of the course outline for future reference.
What is the ACE Certificate, and what courses do I need to get it?
The ACE Certificate is a Grade 12 equivalent certificate offered by Ontario’s public colleges. To qualify for your ACE Certificate, you need to complete ACE Communications, 1 ACE Math course plus 2 other courses from the 10 approved courses (see the courses page).
Upon completion of the required courses, you can apply at the student records department at your registering college to receive an ACE Certificate.
Many learners take only the courses they need to meet the prerequisites for admission to college certificate and diploma programs. Be sure to confirm the admission requirements of the program(s) you’re interested in at each college where you’re applying.