Secondary Schools

There are a large number of secondary schools in Canada. You have the private schools and publicly funded secondary schools that offer programs from Intensive English to a full academic program leading to secondary school certificate or Canadian High School Diploma. Schools can be “boys-only” or “girls-only” or “co-educational.” Some schools offer full boarding program and some are only day-schools. International students that need a place to stay can choose between schools that offer boarding facility. Or they can also have an option of staying with host families.

Private Schools

There are a number of private schools run by educationist and business people in various provinces to provide specialized programs as well as the regular program offered by public schools. Private schools must meet the rigorous standards set by the ministries and must be registered with the Ministry of Education. The local province approves the curriculum and oversees the delivery as per the standards set by them. Many private schools adhere to a particular religious faith, emphasize particular moral teachings and apply rigorous academic standards. The fees charged by private schools vary from district to district.

Public Schools

Publicly-funded schools are government run schools that are managed at the local level by elected school boards. International students are welcomed by many state boards and they offer a secular, non-religious education. Most of the public-schools are day schools and are co-educational. A small number of public-schools offer religious education. Policies on accepting international students and the fees charged vary from district to district.

Requirements

• Age: Students between 13 and 19 years of age. Some schools will accept younger children. Some schools require proof of Guardianship if the student is less than 16 years of age.
• Students must have a strong foundation in English (or French) and Math. Some schools will administer a test to ascertain their level in these subjects.
• Some schools will require the student to submit a valid TOEFL or IELTS score.
• Good academic scores in the last three years of schooling.
• Some schools will require a valid SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) score.
• Letters of recommendation from school.
• Official academic transcripts for the past three years.
• Completed application form and application fees.
• Interviews, where possible, may also be required.