If you are booked for the Ontario 313A certifying exam, check the dictionary rule before you arrive with one. Skilled Trades Ontario (STO) says the exam is available in English or French, that English and French dictionaries are available at its exam locations, and that a candidate may request to bring a foreign-language dictionary. That request is not automatic permission. This answers a candidate logistics question checked on 2026-10-09; STO has not announced a new 313A exam rule here.
Which exam languages and dictionaries does STO provide?
STO says candidates must write in English or French. English and French dictionaries are available at all exam locations. A dictionary is a reference for a word, not an alternate-language exam or a translation of the questions. If you need a different language resource, check the separate approval route before your sitting.
Use your own Authorization to Test Letter and booking confirmation for the details of your appointment. The exam-day checklist covers other belongings; it does not authorize a personal dictionary.
Can you bring your own foreign-language dictionary?
STO says candidates may request to bring one. An approved dictionary must be word-to-word translation only and will be inspected before and after the exam. Ask STO for a decision for your own sitting before bringing a book; do not assume that a technical handbook, annotated dictionary, electronic translator or phone is covered by this permission. If you need a disability-related interpreter or translator, STO treats that as an accommodation request supported by relevant medical documentation. It says low English or French proficiency alone is not the basis for providing an interpreter or translator.
For an accommodation, start before booking and follow STO's form and instructions. Its scheduling page lists accommodations@skilledtradesontario.ca and 1-855-299-0028 for questions. Do not send personal medical information to Examen Studio.
How should you prepare when technical vocabulary is the obstacle?
Make a two-column study list from the terms you actually miss: the English or French term on one side and a plain-language explanation of the component or action on the other. For example, explain what a superheat reading represents before memorizing the word. Practise reading a short question and identifying the requested quantity, then solve it without relying on a translated answer key. This is a study exercise, not a claim about the wording of the real exam.
Check the current 313A exam guide before planning topics: Red Seal still labels its previous standard as the basis of current exams, while exams for the newer standard are under development. The five-question free sample is original, unofficial draft practice awaiting certified-mechanic review; it cannot predict a pass.
Sources
- Skilled Trades Ontario: exam schedulingExam languages, dictionaries and accommodation route; checked 2026-10-09
- Red Seal: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning MechanicCurrent versus newer occupational standard status; checked 2026-10-09
Examen Studio is independent and not affiliated with the Red Seal Program or Skilled Trades Ontario. This article is a study aid; on the job, follow current codes, regulations and manufacturer instructions.