Primary, secondary education in Canada for international students
This content was developed with active participation of Lucy Heller.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://www.hotcoursesabroad.com/study-in-canada/applying-to-university/the-canadian-higher-education-system-simplified/
- https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/where-to-study/study-in-canada.
-
from 556.00 $ / monthApply with documents
-
from 12450.00 £ / yearApply with documents
-
from 21000.00 $CAD / yearApply with documents
-
from 15164.00 $CAD / yearApply with documents
-
from 19420.00 $CAD / 2 semestersApply with documents
Alternative destinations
Education information
Canada is one of the most popular country for studying abroad. It's famous all over the world for excellent quality of education and its low cost. Studying at 40 best secondary schools in Canada highly increases chances to enter world leading universities in the future. Foreign students have a great opportunity to use modern equipment, communicate with native speakers as teachers and study interesting programs.
Studying in Canada is popular due to several reasons:
- Modern Canadian primary and secondary education programs in Canada based on European and North American experience;
- Comfortable studying and living conditions;
- Low tuition fees;
- Diploma of the international standard
Top Schools in Canada for Secondary Education
The top 40 secondary schools in Canada offer dynamic programs that cater to both English and French speakers. By attending these leading schools, international students can significantly enhance their linguistic skills in two foreign languages, gain insights into Canadian culture and traditions, and chart a clearer path for future specializations. After completing their program at these top Canadian schools, students are often eligible to enroll in universities without the need for entrance examinations.
Tuition for many Canadian schools frequently encompasses accommodation within a host family, though students can also opt to live on campus with fellow students. These schools are at the forefront of integrating the latest technological advancements into their curricula, ensuring students have access to innovative learning tools. Thanks to their preparatory courses, international students can attain proficiency in English, enabling them to cope with mandatory school subjects.
Upon completing secondary education in Canada, students receive a certificate bearing their exam scores. In Canada, attending school is mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 16. Of the over five million students in Canadian schools each year, a staggering 95% enroll in public or Catholic schools. While public schools offer co-ed education, Catholic schools typically segregate by gender. Only 5% of students attend private schools, known for their prestige and higher tuition fees.
Interestingly, many international students gravitate towards private institutions in Canada. One appealing aspect of these institutions is their affordability; their programs are generally more cost-effective compared to boarding schools in the US, UK, and Switzerland.
What will you get after graduating Best Schools in Canada
The environment at the 40 best schools in Canada is one of the main draws for international students. Beyond just the allure of competitive pricing, Canada offers a welcoming and safe community. The educators are keenly invested in both academic pursuits and ensuring students have an engaging, fulfilling experience outside the classroom.
For those interested, some secondary schools in Canada offer separate housing for boys and girls, a practice that has been seen to benefit students by offering specialized academic and extracurricular programs tailored to foster academic, creative, and communicative growth.
TOP Canadian boarding school rankings - what criteria are they based on? How accurate is it today?
There are no official school rankings (as universities) in Canada; many of the private rankings are paid for by schools that want to be included. I think we need to look at the opportunities that the school provides - living conditions, the number of people in the class, the percentage of admission to universities, the availability of additional programs (STEM, art, etc.), the presence of IB, participation in Olympiads.
Life in Canadian Schools for International Students
Canadian boarding schools boast top-notch accommodation. Students typically reside in single or shared rooms and benefit from the constant guidance of educators living within the same premises. This close-knit setting aids students in acclimating to a new culture and environment.
Why Choose Secondary Schools in Canada: 9 Benefits for International Students
-
The senior school program, known as the High School Diploma, spans four years. Completion grants students a recognized graduation certificate, opening doors to universities in Canada, the US, and other English-speaking countries.
-
Age flexibility: Students don't need to be 18 to start university.
-
Cost-efficiency: For instance, the Pre-University program at Columbia International College was priced at only 35,000 Canadian dollars in 2017, inclusive of lodging and meals.
-
Both public and private institutions offer boarding-type education. While private ones can be pricier, their advanced facilities enable students to achieve top scores and gain admission to elite universities.
-
Canadian schools often feature extensive sports complexes and offer a wide range of extracurricular activities to support holistic student development.
-
Safety and international-friendly policies.
-
The inviting climate and comfortable living conditions.
-
Highly esteemed educational standards and globally recognized diplomas.
-
Reasonable tuition fees.
Secondary Schools in Canada. Cost and Fees
Fees at the top secondary schools in Canada can vary based on school rankings, historical prestige, and examination outcomes of graduates. On average, tuition ranges from $35,000 to $60,000 annually, inclusive of accommodation. These fees are somewhat comparable to those in the UK's secondary schools and slightly higher than its primary schools.
How to apply to schools in Canada for foreign students?
Canada, known for its globally respected education system, attracts numerous international students each year. For foreign students considering studying in Canada, understanding the application process is paramount. Whether applying for primary, secondary, or post-secondary institutions, several general steps and considerations apply.
The first step is to determine the level and type of education desired. Canada has a vast array of institutions, including primary and secondary schools, colleges, universities, and vocational training centers. Once you've selected the education level, it's essential to research specific schools or institutions in the region of interest. Each province and territory in Canada manages its education system, so requirements can vary. For universities and colleges, many institutions will require standardized test scores, such as the SAT, ACT, or language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Primary and secondary schools may ask for previous school records, a statement of purpose, and possibly a language proficiency assessment.
After choosing a school or a set of schools, gather all the necessary documentation. This typically includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of language proficiency, a passport copy, and sometimes a statement of purpose or personal essay. Some institutions might also require an interview, which can often be done virtually for international students. Before submitting the application, foreign students should also ensure they can meet the financial requirements. Some schools might ask for proof of funds to demonstrate the student's ability to cover tuition, accommodation, and other living expenses.
Once accepted by a Canadian institution, the next crucial step is obtaining a study permit. This involves applying to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with the letter of acceptance from the school, proof of sufficient funds, and other necessary documentation. This permit is vital for foreign students wishing to study in Canada for a duration longer than six months. In summary, while the process might seem complex, careful planning, research, and timely submission of all requirements can make the journey smoother for foreign students aspiring to study in Canada.
How do I choose a school in Canada?
When should I apply?
What programs of study are available in Canadian schools for international students?
How much does it cost to attend a Canadian school?
How does the enrollment process work?
At what age do boarding schools in Canada accept students?
Can parents obtain a visa to Canada on the basis of the child's student visa?
When does the training start?
Are there any entrance exams?
What subjects of study comprise secondary education in Canada?
General statistics on education in Canada-ratings, specializations, universities
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
Advantages and disadvantages of English schools
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
The opportunity to enter the best universities in England, USA, Canada, Switzerland, Europe, the world | Expensive |
High quality of education and academic standards | Strong workload |
Perfect English after graduation | The need to change the social environment; it takes time to adapt |
Useful contacts | The difficulty of choosing the most suitable school for the child, requires a qualified specialist |
Top 21 boarding colleges in England 2024
1 | Cardiff Sixth Form College |
2 | National Mathematics and Science College |
3 | Abbey College Cambridge |
4 | d'Overbroeck's College |
5 | MPW London |
6 | CATS Cambridge |
7 | Kensington Park |
8 | DLD London |
9 | King's College St Michael’s |
10 | Bellerbys Cambridge |
11 | Chelsea Independent College |
12 | MPW Cambridge |
13 | Bellerbys Brighton |
14 | CATS London |
15 | St Clare's Oxford |
16 | Bishopstrow College |
17 | CATS Canterbury |
18 | Bellerbys London |
19 | Ealing Independent College |
20 | Cambridge Tutors College |
21 | Abbey Manchester |