9 best boarding schools in Montreal, Quebec 2025

Montreal, located in the Francophone province of Quebec, is celebrated as Canada's cultural capital. This city beautifully melds cultures and traditions from around the globe, offering a welcoming and diverse environment for students.

The city is known for its friendly locals, making it easy for newcomers, including students, to feel at home and quickly adapt to their new surroundings.

Seasonal Experiences in Canada

The city offers picturesque winters with activities like fairs and ice skating, while summers are vibrant with outdoor dining and waterfront walks.

Diverse Culinary Scene

Having evolved from a port town, Montreal now boasts a rich culinary landscape, second only to New York in its variety of dining options.

Cultural and Historical Richness

Montreal is filled with cultural and historical sites that provide educational experiences outside of traditional classroom settings.

International Student Community

The city's large international student population offers opportunities to forge global friendships and connections.

Arnold I. Szepesi

Global Direct Sales Manager in EHL Hospitality Business School

What does make Canadian schools special? Why do parents from all over the world choose Canada primary and secondary schools for their children?

First of all, it is a high level of education, which is recognized throughout the world. Canada is the most educated country on the planet, so the culture of education is at the highest level here. All schools in Canada - public, private, independent - follow a provincial curriculum, and all educators are required to hold a teaching degree and certification. All these factors convince families that no matter which school they choose, their children will receive a first-class education.

Boarding schools in Montreal cater to various stages of education:

• Primary School (ages 6-12)
• Middle School (ages 12-16)
• High School (ages 16-18)

Students graduate with a Dogwood Diploma, with international students particularly favoring private schools for grades 7-9, where the focus is on holistic development and bilingual education in French and English.

Curriculum Focus

Up to Grade 9, students engage in a diverse curriculum including languages, sciences, arts, and health sciences. Grades 10-11 see a more focused approach with a reduced list of subjects, allowing for deeper exploration in chosen areas.

The cost of attending a private boarding school in Montreal ranges from 15,000 to 25,000 CAD annually. This fee typically does not cover additional expenses like accommodation and meals. Some of the top boarding schools in Montreal include:

• Centennial Academy
• College Prep International
• Kells Academy
• Kuper Academy
• Lower Canada College
• Miss Edgar's & Miss Cramp's School
• Queen of Angels Academy

Graduates from Montreal's boarding schools are well-positioned for admission into prestigious universities in Canada, also in the USA, Great Britain, and other countries, thanks to the high-quality education received.

Applying to boarding schools in Montreal requires a systematic approach according to the diverse educational setting of the city. The first step is to look for and identify boarding schools that would address the academic goals and personal interests of the student. Montreal is a vibrant melting pot of cultures with a high standard of education and offers boarding schools providing education from arts to sciences, including also bilingual education as an option. Families should explore each school’s website, attend open houses, and seek out reviews or testimonials to gain insights into the school's environment, curriculum, and community. It’s also beneficial to consider the school's location within Montreal, as the city offers a rich cultural experience that can greatly enhance a student's educational journey.

The application process typically involves submitting detailed documentation, which can include academic transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The personal essay is especially important as it provides an opportunity for the student to convey their individuality, motivations, and aspirations. Additionally, many boarding schools in Montreal require an interview process, which can be conducted in person or virtually. This interview helps the school assess the student's compatibility with their academic and community environment. It is vital to be mindful of each school's application deadlines and requirements, ensuring that all documents are thoroughly prepared and submitted on time.

Financial considerations play an important role in the admission process. The boarding school experience in Montreal could represent not only an extraordinary education but also an investment. Tuition and boarding facilities, as well as the cost of other extracurricular activities, must also be taken into consideration. Some schools provide funds for scholarships and bursaries to make the experience a little more affordable. Families should contact the school admissions office or financial aid office for further clarification and guidance on the types of financial aid options available. It is vital to stay in close communication with the school's admissions office during the entire application process, as they can provide assistance in answering any questions that may arise and navigating through any challenges.

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