Is a master's worth it for Ontario teachers?

Compare the gross salary difference between categories on a published board grid. Use it alongside course costs, study time and your own career plans.

A master’s degree does not automatically change your salary category. Confirm your individual requirements with QECO before enrolling.

Using the published 2025-26 grid for HDSB.

A1 → A4 over 25 years
$534,245
illustrative gross salary difference (HDSB)
That's about $25,459 more every year at the top step in each category.

A rough estimate using HDSB's published grid shown here, assuming you move up one step each year. It doesn't count the cost or time of the qualifications, or raises to the grid itself. Category placement depends on your qualifications and an official evaluation. Confirm the requirements before paying for a course.

How salary categories work

Your grid salary depends on your recognised experience step and qualification category. Your board applies the relevant agreement and confirms which experience counts.

There are different routes to a higher category, including certain degrees and additional qualifications. Ask QECO for advice based on your existing qualifications before paying for a course. A salary increase depends on meeting the requirements and submitting the correct documents.

The calculator is an estimate on your selected published grid and doesn't subtract the cost or time of the courses. Check your exact placement with QECO and your board. Future raises, taxes, course costs and time away from work can change the result.

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