High school in Canada for international students

Literature and references

This content was developed and approved with active participation of Nadya Shupta.

In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:

https://www.educanada.ca/study-plan-etudes/secondary-secondaire.aspx?lang=eng
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education_in_Canada

Current page last update date: 2025-07-15

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What is high school in Canada?

High school in Canada is an educational institution for students between the ages of 14 and 18. It provides education from grades 9 to 12 and prepares students for university.

What is a high school grade point average (GPA) in a Canadian high school?

The grade point average (GPA) is calculated based on a student's grades. Canada generally uses a 4-point grading system where an "A" corresponds to 4 points, a "B" corresponds to 3 points, and so on. The GPA provides an overall assessment of a student's performance based on their grades in various subjects.

Can I attend high school in Canada if I am an international student?

Yes, schools in Canada accept international students. You will need to obtain a student visa and find a suitable school or program of study.

Anna Parkhomenko

Ridley College Admission Manager

When should you start the Canadian school application process? What should applicants prepare for?

Typically, Canadian boarding schools accept applications all year round - as long as there are places. However, I advise you to start the process in February-March - this way you will have enough time to prepare (including for visa issues), and you are more likely to find a free place on the desired course.

Admission requirements may vary as schools set them independently. However, among the universal requirements, one can note the report cards, recommendations, certificates of the level of the English language. Some schools continue to use entrance tests, but in recent years, most have switched to interviews: this provides a more holistic, personalized approach.

What is the high school curriculum in Canada?

The program of study includes a wide range of subjects. Compulsory subjects usually include English, math, science and social studies. However, pupils also have the opportunity to choose subjects of their own interest, such as art, music, physical education, etc. In addition, pupils are usually required to complete a certain number of hours of extra-curricular activities.

Can I choose the subjects I want to study in high school?

Yes, students usually have some freedom in choosing subjects. The main compulsory subjects are specified in the curriculum, but students are given the opportunity to choose a number of elective subjects depending on their interests and future career goals.

What social and cultural activities are available to high school students?

In Canada's high schools, students are given many opportunities to participate in social and cultural activities. These may include school balls, sporting events, musical and theatrical performances, exhibitions, charity events and more.

What are the requirements for the final exam?

Some provinces in Canada require you to take a final exam called the Secondary School Graduation Examination. This exam assesses a student's knowledge of the required subjects. The requirements and format may vary from province to province.

What post-secondary opportunities does Canada offer?

After high school, students can choose between going to university, college, technical school or starting a career. Canada offers a variety of pathways for further learning and development, and the choice depends on the student's interests and goals.

What are the language requirements for international students?

Depending on the institution and province, there may be different language requirements. International students are usually required to take an English language exam such as IELTS or TOEFL to demonstrate their ability to learn in English.

Is there a bilingual (English and French) option in high school in Canada?

Yes, bilingual programs are available in Canada, including programs in English and French. Canada is bilingual and such programs are widespread, especially in the province of Quebec.

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 2025

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