Manuel Garrido
International schools in Canada are independent or private schools that offer a curriculum based on international standards. These schools have a diverse student population of teachers and students from different countries and provide quality education.
The best international schools cover programs such as International Baccalaureate (IB), British Curriculum (IGCSE / A-Levels), American Curriculum, and French Curriculum. They often have high academic standards, smaller class sizes, and many extracurricular activities.
If you are looking for an international school in a specific city or program, this guide can help. Below, we provided a comprehensive look at the schools in Canada, including the fees.
Keep reading to learn about:
Which are affordable international schools in Canada?
Canada has international schools with affordable fees that provide quality education. These top universities are located all around the country, with courses available for different budgets. The table provides a list of the best international schools with cheaper fees.
University | Average tuition fees for Canadian citizens | Average tuition fees for International students |
Brandon University | $4,401 | $16,284 |
University of Northern British Columbia | $5,989 | $26,753 |
University of Saskatchewan | $7,549 | $36,535 |
University of Guelph | $6,091 - $7,051 | $34,698 |
Memorial University of Newfoundland | $2,880 - $6,480 | $12,900 - $21,630 |
University of Winnipeg | 4,490 - $5,150 | $16,692 - $20,081 |
University of Alberta | $7,012 | $33,968 |
University of Calgary | $7,100 | $28,460 |
Source: Universities Canada
Top International Schools in Canada
The best international schools are institutions known for their strong focus on academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and a diverse array of subjects. They offer quality education that develops leadership skills and supports the academic and personal development of students from around the world.
According to our Global Education Report, Canada is the fifth-best destination for quality education. With diverse curricula and teaching methods, these schools are staffed by qualified teachers and have different admission standards. Here is a list of the best international schools to explore.
Lakefield College School
Lakefield, Ontario
- Tuition fees: $47,300 – $82,400
- Class sizes: 14 students
- From 13 to 18 years
Lakefield College School is a private school that provides a co-education program based on the Canadian curriculum. It is preparing students for higher education, with excellent admission rates. This private school offers sports at different levels, from beginner to highly competitive classes. It is one of the best schools with a hands-on approach and plenty of resources for day and boarding schools.
Branksome Hall
Toronto, Ontario
- Tuition fees: $40,940 – $50,440
- Class sizes: 18 students
- From 4 to 17 years
Branksome Hall is a private school for girls with day and boarding schools. This international school follows the International Baccalaureate, an important career-related program. This private school has a strong reputation for creating global and diverse communities, preparing students for higher education. It has unlimited resources, a calm teaching environment, and excellent student behavior. The institution provides an urban setting where students can excel in different subjects, especially in math and physics, and achieve great academic potential.
Bodwell High Private School
North Vancouver, British Columbia
- Tuition fees: $47,725
- Class sizes: 20 students
- From 13 to 18 years
Bodwell High School is a university-preparation, co-educational boarding school located in British Columbia. Students can pursue various advanced academic courses and interscholastic sports, which encourages students to meet like-minded individuals and make friends. This private school grants affordable tuition rates for international students and their parents. It is one of the best schools due to its rigorous International Baccalaureate program, large campus, and various extracurricular activities.
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Southpointe Academy
Delta, British Columbia
- Tuition fees: $49,025
- Class sizes: 20 students
- From 5 to 18 years
Southpointe Academy is a private school based on the International Baccalaureate program. It is a co-education day school with summer program camps for arts, academics, sports, and outdoor education. Besides, education in Canada is ranked among the highest in the world, and with options such as Southpointe Academy, students get a top-tier education. Teachers have plenty of resources to captivate students and create a unique learning environment.
NOIC Academy
Toronto, Ontario
- Tuition fees: $21,000 – $50,000
- Class sizes: 5 to 15
- From 14 to 18 years
NOIC Academy is one of the high-end schools in Canada for international students. The program is based on the International Baccalaureate with a high university acceptance rate. Once enrolled, students gain access to a range of advanced placement courses. NOIC combines rigorous coursework with leadership training so students can obtain a globally recognized degree.
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J. Addison School
Markham, Ontario
- Tuition fees: $18,000 – 46,500
- Class sizes: 10 to 20 students
- From 4 to 18 years
J. Addison School is one of the most well-known international schools in Canada. It is a day and boarding school with diversified programs. J. Addison School focuses on local and international students with families around the world. J. Addison School uses International Baccalaureate, Canadian Curriculum, Montessori, and other programs. Graduates get individualized attention from qualified teachers for every subject. Enrolled students at J. Addison School can explore scholarships, which make the schools in Canada for international students more accessible to low-income families.
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Frequently Asked Questions About International Schools in Canada
How many international schools are in Canada?
Canada has 377 schools that follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Of these, 188 teach in English, 134 use French, and 52 provide bilingual lessons in both English and French. Many international schools can be found in major cities like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa.
How much does international school cost in Canada?
Schools in Canada come in different types, each with its own fee.
For example:
- Public schools have the most affordable rates: $9,500 to $17,000 annually.
- Private day schools are more expensive: $15,000 to $30,000 annually.
- Private boarding schools are the most expensive: $63,000 to $83,000 annually.
Is school free in Canada for international students?
No, international students must pay tuition fees for high school and elementary school. Public school is free only for Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and more affordable with scholarships. To qualify for free public education, foreign students must apply for Canadian permanent residency.
Can a US citizen go to school in Canada?
Yes, U.S. citizens can attend international high schools in Canada. To decide the best option, families should inform themselves about the different schools in Canada and their qualification requirements. Canadian schools offer high-quality education and various programs.
Is it cheaper to study in Canada or USA for international students?
Universities and international schools tend to have more affordable tuition fees compared to U.S. universities. Living expenses, rent, and housing prices in the United States are often higher than in Canada. However, the costs for the school year can vary based on the location, classes, and university.
Do international schools in Canada accept students mid-year?
Most private schools accept students at the start of the school year. However, plenty of schools also provide mid-year admissions. They can admit students to join them in the middle of the school year, at the start of the new term, or partway through a term.
How to get Canadian citizenship and receive free education?
Canadian citizenship can be obtained through three main pathways: citizenship by birth, descent, or naturalization. If international students were not born to Canadian parents, they can become citizens by naturalization. Canada doesn’t have a direct citizenship by investment program. Instead, it offers residency by investment through options like the Start-up Visa.
Is the International Baccalaureate program worth it?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a rigorous program that requires hard work. Some of the top private schools and boarding schools offer the International Baccalaureate since it helps students become better researchers and gain independence. So, if you are planning to go to college in Canada, the International Baccalaureate program can be worth it.
What is the Ontario Secondary School Diploma equivalent to?
The Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) is a diploma students receive after finishing secondary school in Ontario. It’s part of the public school system and given to those who complete all required courses. The OSSD is widely accepted around the world and is similar in value to programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Is it difficult for international students to get into Canadian schools?
Getting into the top universities and colleges in Canada can be difficult. Institutions like the University of Toronto have high standards and select dedicated students with excellent grades and academic potential. However, if students are academically inclined and have exceptional records, it can be easier to enroll in Canadian schools.
