Canada is known for its wonderful educational system, and Vancouver contributes to this reputation through a good selection of schools and universities. Whether you're interested in budget education, independent or homeschooling, there are plenty of options in British Columbia. The province offers education in French and/or English.
The school year in Vancouver lasts from September to June, children begin their education in kindergarten from the age of 5. The main school units are primary (grades K-7) and secondary school (grades 8-12).
Vancouver students have access to free education in all public schools. Most schools provide all educational materials, including textbooks, places are distributed by place of residence. You can register your child in a public school by obtaining resident status.
There are a total of 92 public elementary and 19 secondary schools in Vancouver's school system. In addition to schools, there are centers of extracurricular work, offer programs in art and culture.
Before entering school, children in Vancouver can participate in the StrongStart BCprogram. This free initiative is available for children from 5 years old: it allows you to learn in an exciting environment, studying fairy tales, music, art. Children meet with other children, communicate, develop linguistic, physical, cognitive, social, emotional skills.
Vancouver has several highly rated private schools, including religious, expat educational institutions, and institutions for children with special needs.
Independent schools recruit smaller classes, take a more focused approach to each student's needs, and offer conditions for extracurricular activities, sports, leisure activities that are not available in public schools. The cost of tuition in a private school reaches 42 000 $ CAD for studying in a specialized school for expats.
Children with special needs who find it difficult to learn or communicate study in public and private schools. Some independent schools serve only children in need of additional support and special education.
Best private schools in Vancouver for foreign students
- Bodwell High School
- Alexander College
- Queen Margaret's School Canada
- Pattison High School
- Alexander Academy
- St. George's School
- St. Margaret's School
- Whytecliff Agile Learning Centres
- Columbia College
- Coquitlam College.
Higher education in Vancouver
More than half of Canada's population has received higher education – with so many educational institutions, Canadians and international students are spoilt for choice. Whether you want to study at one of Canada's largest universities or want to enroll in a specialized educational institution, Vancouver will definitely offer the right option!
Canada's higher education is administered by the Canadian provinces and may vary slightly from region to region. Vancouver has universities that offer bachelor's, master's, doctoral (PhD) degrees, as well as faculties offering technical education. The first cycle usually includes programs lasting from 3 to 4 years, master's courses, the professional cycle lasts from 1 to 3 years. Most Canadian universities are public, with graduates receiving an internationally recognized diploma at an affordable price.
The academic year is divided into three trimesters:
- autumn (September-December)
- winter (January-April)
- summer (May-August).
Programs usually start in September.
In the first years, the interaction between students and professors is practically absent, classes are often held in a lecture format. To make up for this shortcoming, professors set special hours each week when they are available online or in person. Over time, mentoring relationships are established between students and lecturers.
Canadians are known for their friendliness and kindness. Classrooms usually have an interactive, friendly atmosphere.
English is the main language of instruction at Vancouver universities. Applicants need to confirm their level of English through an exam during the registration process.
Popular courses among international students in Vancouver are associated with creative specialties - filmmaking, design, art.
