Boarding schools in Canada 2024

Canadian private boarding schools are chosen by many students from all over the world. SMAPSE offers you TOP-40 boarding schools in Canada where foreign students can get high-quality and advanced courses.

Private boarding schools in Canada take British principles of education, as historically Canada was a part of British Empire. There are several specifics of Canadian educational system. For instance, a notable characteristic feature of secondary education in Canada is division of the country into zones of two official state languages: English and French. The boarding schools in Canada offer educational programs in English or French, at the same time the prestigious Canadian boarding schools teach disciplines on the both languages, offering the bilingual studying programs. Such intensive language preparation is a great chance to significantly increase an opportunity to enrol in chosen university or to be a candidate on a prestigious position in international company. 

Campuses at middle schools in Canada are very spacious and perfectly equipped. Students can find everything necessary for comfortable studying and living. It's worth noting that Canadians are real sports fans. Therefore, schools in Canada provide excellent conditions for physical development: sports fields and grounds, gyms, professional coaches and instructors.

Moreover, Canada's prestigious boarding schools give an opportunity to study 2 foreign languages at once: English and French as they are equally widespread and popular. Such intense language preparation is an excellent way to increase your chances to enter world leading universities and build successful international career at the prestigious company.

In this section of the website SMAPSE experts present the boarding schools in Canada for foreign students – today, secondary education in Canada has become more and more popular, at the same time the quality of education is not inferior to USA, Great Britain, etc. This article contains information about specifics of obtaining education in the boarding schools in Canada, here you can get acquainted with list of the educational institutions, school descriptions and their ranking, tuition fee. 

Elementary schools in Canada, boarding schools offer educational services consistent with the highest international academic standards, at the same time the certificate of full secondary education obtained after graduation from Canadian private high school is recognized by the overwhelming majority of leading universities of Canada and other countries. 

The schools in Canada for international students have unprecedented opportunities: each school has developed modern infrastructure, located on the spacious campus territory. Classrooms have state-of-the-art infrastructure, technical methods are widely used in the educational process (modern computers, interactive  whiteboards, audio and video tasks, electronic textbooks, etc.). The foreign students are provided with all the necessary conditions for comfort studying and accommodation. Also Canadians are real fans of sports, therefore in private boarding schools in Canada the physical development of students is paid great attention. For sport exercises the grounds, stadiums, gyms are opened. The professional coaches and instructors of various sport types are engaged with international students. 

Understanding Boarding Schools in Canada Fees When considering the best boarding schools in Canada, fees can range between 35,000 to 78,000 Canadian dollars annually. These fees can vary based on several factors, including the prestige of the institution, choice of accommodation (student residence or host family), study duration, and the school's location.

Admission Requirements for Canadian Boarding Schools If you're aiming to enroll in one of the top boarding schools in Canada, you'll need the following documentation:

• A copy of the student's passport or ID card.

• Academic records for the previous two years, plus current year quarterly/trimester grades.

• Recent language proficiency certificates.

• Recommendation letters from English and mathematics teachers.

• Motivation letter (where applicable).

• Completed registration and school-specific forms.

• Either a Skype interview with the student or an in-person visit to the institution.

Additionally, most Canadian boarding schools also require potential students to take internal mathematics and English tests to gauge their readiness for the program.

If you have any queries regarding the admission process or requirements, our team at SMAPSE is always on standby to assist you.

Scholarships: Opportunities for Talented Students Indeed, talented students stand a good chance of securing scholarships at these international boarding schools in Canada. The scholarship amount, however, varies from school to school. For instance, the London International Academy offers scholarships covering up to 50% of the tuition fee. On average, students from Russia typically receive scholarships ranging from 25-50%. It's worth noting that each region might have its own scholarship allocations, with Russia often securing the maximum amount.

Nadya Shupta

Regional Marketing & Recruiting Manager at London International Academy (until 2021)

What would you say is the most important when choosing a Canadian school?

Based on my experience, parents are primarily interested in the quality of education, an individual approach, the price of education, the presence of their own residence within walking distance, as well as the ability to quickly resolve all emerging issues with a Russian-speaking representative.
 

Provide your child with the unparalleled opportunity of studying in some of the best boarding schools in Canada. Our team at SMAPSE has curated a list of accredited, prestigious institutions for your perusal. By clicking on the school's photo or name, you can access in-depth details about each institution. Furthermore, for specific information about secondary educational courses in Canada, you can click on the designated program.

As the official representatives of numerous private boarding schools in Canada, SMAPSE is committed to assisting students and parents in the selection and enrollment process at no cost. By leaving a request at the end of this page, our seasoned foreign education experts will reach out to offer a complimentary consultation at your convenience. Don't delay your child's bright future – embark on the journey to select the perfect school in Canada today!

Canada boasts a range of prestigious boarding schools, known for their strong academic programs, diverse extracurricular activities, and a rich blend of cultural experiences. These institutions typically offer a holistic educational environment, combining rigorous academic instruction with life skills development in a residential setting. Many of these schools attract international students from all over the world.

Initial Research and Inquiry

Before applying, families should conduct thorough research on various boarding schools to determine which institutions align with their academic and personal preferences. School websites, brochures, and virtual or in-person tours offer valuable insights into each school's ethos, curriculum, facilities, and community. After narrowing down the choices, families can reach out to the admissions offices of these schools to request detailed application information and clarify any doubts.

The Application Process

Most boarding schools in Canada have an online application process, which typically requires submitting personal information, academic records, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay or statement. The essay is a crucial component as it allows students to showcase their personality, aspirations, and reasons for choosing that particular school. Some schools may also request standardized test scores, although requirements vary between institutions.

Interviews and School Visits

After the initial application review, schools often invite candidates for an interview. This can be in-person, over the phone, or through video conferencing, especially for international applicants. Some institutions might also have entrance exams or assessments. If feasible, families are usually encouraged to visit the school. This provides an opportunity to experience the school's environment firsthand, interact with current students and staff, and assess the facilities and accommodations.

Considerations for International Student

 International applicants may need to provide additional documentation. This can include proof of English language proficiency through tests like the IELTS or TOEFL if the student's first language is not English. After gaining admission, international students will also need to apply for a study permit to legally study in Canada. The school's admissions office can usually guide students through this process or provide necessary documentation to support the permit application.

Applying to boarding schools in Canada involves a combination of careful research, thorough preparation of application materials, and proactive engagement with the admissions offices of chosen institutions. Given the competitive nature of some of these schools, it's beneficial for families to start the application process early and ensure all requirements are meticulously met.

Tuition Fees

Boarding schools in Canada, much like in other parts of the world, can be a significant financial commitment. The tuition fees for boarding schools typically encompass the academic instruction, boarding (residential accommodation), and often some extracurricular activities. As of my last update in 2021, tuition fees for boarding students in Canadian schools generally ranged from CAD 30,000 to CAD 70,000 per year. However, the exact amount varies depending on the reputation of the school, its location, and the quality of facilities and services it offers.

Additional Costs

Apart from the basic tuition fees, there are other costs to consider. These may include uniforms, books, personal supplies, technology fees, and excursion or field trip expenses. Furthermore, some boarding schools have additional fees for specialized programs, such as advanced placement courses or international baccalaureate programs. Additionally, international students might also need to factor in the costs of health insurance, visa fees, and flights to and from their home country.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Many boarding schools in Canada offer scholarships and financial aid packages to deserving students, both domestic and international. These scholarships can be based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, or specific talents. Financial aid, on the other hand, is often means-tested and depends on the financial circumstances of the student's family. It's always a good idea for prospective students to research and apply for these opportunities to potentially reduce the overall cost of attendance.

Location and Cost of Living

The cost of living can also play a role in the overall expenses of attending a boarding school in Canada. Schools located in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver might have higher fees than those in more rural or less populated areas due to the increased cost of living and operational expenses in urban centers.

Boarding schools in Canada offer top-tier education and a rich cultural experience, they come with substantial costs. Prospective students and their families should undertake thorough research and financial planning before committing, ensuring they account for both the obvious and hidden costs. As the prices can vary significantly based on various factors, it's also advisable to directly contact the schools of interest for the most up-to-date and detailed fee structures.

A boarding school is a type of educational institution where students live and study on campus for the entire school year. Boarding schools usually provide full boarding, including room and board and classes. Students usually return home only during vacations or at the end of the school year. Boarding schools usually have strict discipline and students have to follow certain rules and routines. This format of education provides a learning and educational environment that promotes deeper immersion in the learning process and the development of autonomy, responsibility and self-discipline in students. Boarding schools offer a variety of programs of study, with the main goal of providing a high level of education and diverse development of students. This type of school may be particularly attractive to students who want to be deeply immersed in the learning process and have unique opportunities to develop both academically and extracurricularly.

Admission requirements may vary depending on the school and the age of the student. The key requirements are good grades in school for the last 2 years of schooling, English language proficiency at the B1-B2 level, and successful passing of a math test. Some schools accept students with low academic performance, as the main criterion for selecting students from such schools is the student's personality and potential. Grades do not always reflect a student's actual knowledge.

There are several types of boarding schools in Canada that provide different programs of study and living arrangements for students. Here are some of the types: Private boarding schools: These are independent private educational institutions that offer both educational programs and residential services to students. They may have a variety of emphases, such as academic achievement, arts, sports, etc. Language boarding schools: These schools specialize in teaching English or French to international students. They provide intensive language courses, including not only classroom instruction but also practice in everyday life. Boarding schools: These are boarding schools where students live on campus for the entire school year. They are usually teen-oriented and provide a fully immersive learning environment, including both academic instruction and extracurricular activities. Schools with an emphasis on sports or the arts: Some boarding schools specialize in developing students' athletic or artistic skills. These may include intensive training in a particular sport, music lessons or the study of visual arts. Boarding Schools for Students with Special Needs: Some boarding schools specialize in educating students with different special needs, providing an individualized approach to education.

Generally, students can enroll in Canadian boarding schools at age 10. However, the exact age of enrollment may vary depending on the school and its class structure.

Living conditions at Canadian boarding schools can vary from institution to institution, but they generally have aspects in common: Rooms: Students usually live in dormitory-style rooms, for 2-4 people. Some schools offer separate rooms for older students. Meal Plans: Most schools provide meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are usually served in an on-campus dining hall. Supervision and support: Schools prioritize the safety and well-being of students. There is often a system of residential counselors or guardians who provide guidance and support to students. Academic support: Many schools have special study spaces that allow students to focus on their studies. Academic support, including tutoring, may also be available. Recreation and Amenities: Schools offer recreational amenities such as common rooms, lounges, gyms and outdoor areas for sports and relaxation. Health and medical care: Schools often have health centers or nurse's offices to meet the medical needs of students. Some schools may also have agreements with local health facilities. Cultural and social activities: Boarding schools organize various cultural, social and extracurricular activities, to keep students engaged and develop a sense of community. Weekend and Holiday Activities: Schools may offer organized activities on weekends and holidays to keep students busy and provide opportunities for social interaction. Laundry facilities: Most boarding schools offer laundry facilities. Rules and regulations: Boarding schools usually have a code of conduct and rules for students to follow. These rules provide a respectful and safe environment. Communication and visitation: Schools often have designated times for family communication and visitation.

The cost of tuition at Canadian boarding schools starts at 40,000 Canadian dollars per year and can go as high as 78,000 - 82,000 Canadian dollars. This cost usually includes tuition, accommodation, study materials, health insurance, airport transportation, and extracurricular activities. High school students may be charged additional fees for final exams. Also, if you choose a school with professional sports sections, you will need to pay extra for sports equipment and additional, extended insurance.

The payment schedule for boarding schools in Canada varies from school to school. Generally, schools require a down payment upon confirmation of enrolment, followed by a deposit, usually in the amount of tuition and living expenses for the first semester. Once a partial payment has been made for the first semester or trimester, the student can begin the visa process. Other payments are made according to the school's schedule.

In boarding schools, several categories of individuals are responsible for students: Parents or guardians: Parents or guardians remain the primary legal representatives of students at school. They make decisions about their child's enrollment, pay tuition and can participate in key decisions about their child's education and well-being. School administration and staff: The school administration and staff are responsible for the overall organization and operation of the school. They provide a safe learning and living environment for students, monitor compliance with rules and regulations, and participate in the resolution of problems and issues that arise. Homeroom teachers and boarding masters: In boarding schools, each class or dormitory may have a homeroom teacher or boarding master. These teachers work in the school and look after the students in their daily lives, helping with their studies, education, extracurricular activities and any problems that may arise. Caregivers and babysitters: Some schools, especially in the lower grades, may have staff who care for children outside of school hours to ensure their safety and comfort.

The insurance plan varies from school to school, but standard health insurance for boarding school students in Canada may include: Essential Health Benefits: Coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency care, and necessary medical procedures. Prescription Drug Coverage: Coverage for prescription drugs prescribed by a doctor. Dental care: Basic dental care such as regular check-ups, dental cleanings and emergency dental treatment. Vision care: Coverage for eye exams and necessary vision care, including prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. Mental Health Support: Some plans may cover mental health services, counseling, and therapy. Specialty Care: Coverage for visits to medical specialists recommended by a primary care physician. Medical Evacuation and Repatriation: Insurance coverage for medical evacuation or repatriation in the event of serious illness or injury requiring transportation to another location or back home. Travel Insurance: Some plans may include travel insurance for student travel during school vacations. It is important to carefully read the details of the health insurance plan offered by the school. If you have special medical needs, it is worth discussing them with the school or insurance company to make sure the coverage meets your needs.

Many boarding schools in Canada offer support and guidance to students when it comes to going to university: Academic Advising: Schools often have special counselors who provide individualized academic guidance. They can help students choose the right courses, make sure they meet the necessary requirements for university programs, and maintain good academic standing. Standardized Testing: Schools may offer preparation for standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, or TOEFL, which are often required for university admission, especially for international students. Application workshops: Some schools offer workshops to help students understand the university application process. They may cover topics such as writing effective personal statements, preparing CVs and letters of recommendation. University research: Academic mentors can help students find universities that match their academic and career goals. They can help students identify appropriate programs. Application deadlines: Schools usually provide information about university and scholarship application deadlines. This helps students to apply on time. Essay Review: Counselors or English teachers can offer feedback and help with editing the university admission essay to help students present themselves effectively. Interview preparation: Some schools offer mock interviews to prepare students for university entrance interviews, helping them feel more confident and prepared. Scholarship Information: Schools can provide information about scholarships and financial aid opportunities available at various universities. Support for international students: For international students, schools can offer guidance on obtaining a visa.

Advantages and disadvantages of English schools

Top 35 best schools in the USA - 2024 Smapse rankings

Top 14 best schools in Switzerland 2024