Secondary education in Toronto, Ontario 2025

In Toronto, primary education spans grades 1 to 8, starting around ages 6-7 and concluding at 13-14 years. The system includes Junior Kindergarten for 4-5 year olds and Kindergarten for 5-6 year olds. International students under 18 must have a guardian in Canada. A key benefit of studying in Toronto’s top-ranked schools is the high-quality academic education, preparing graduates for prestigious universities in Canada, the USA, and the UK.

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.

Language of Instruction: English or French, with no uniform education standards across Canada, allowing provinces to tailor programs to their needs.

• Language Support: Effective English or French courses for foreign students, significantly improving language skills within months.
• Semester System: Many top schools in Toronto offer 3-semester programs, enabling faster completion of studies.
• Credit System: Students earn academic credits towards graduation.
• Education Programs: Options include the classic secondary education program, Advanced Placement with specialized subjects, and the International Baccalaureate, granting global university access without entrance exams.

• St. Andrew’s College: A boys-only school focusing on holistic development, offering middle and senior programs for overseas students. Fees start from CAD 55,000.
• Columbia International College: Caters to ages 13-18, providing preparatory programs for university entrance exams. Known for its supportive environment.
• Brookes Shawnigan Lake: Offers high school and International Baccalaureate programs, with a strong focus on the arts. Fees begin at CAD 47,500.
• Trafalgar Castle School: An all-girls school excelling in pre-university preparation, with a high university acceptance rate. Tuition averages around CAD 59,515.
• Branksome Hall: An all-girls institution in central Toronto, offering the International Baccalaureate. Semester fees are approximately CAD 28,565.

• Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or DALF for French-taught programs).
• Academic assessments (SAT or equivalent tests).
• Application package including form, fees, recent report cards, and teacher recommendations.
• Guardianship for minors.
• Personal interview and medical clearance.

Tuition fees for overseas students range from CAD 20,000 to 65,000 per year, influenced by the school’s location, prestige, and offered programs. This often includes accommodation, with additional fees for registration and non-refundable deposits.

There is a wide range of teaching methods that allow children to acquire knowledge and skills in various fields.

• Interactive learning is a popular method in local schools. It allows students to actively participate in the learning process, ask questions, and discuss topics in groups. This helps students better understand the material and develop critical thinking skills.
• Project-based learning — It involves working in groups to solve real-world problems related to the topics being studied. This method helps develop collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Differentiated learning is a method where teachers adapt the learning process to the individual needs and abilities of students. It allows each student to receive an education tailored to their specific needs and level of preparation.
• Online learning — In modern times, many schools in Toronto offer the option to study online. It allows students to learn from any place and at any time.
• Blended learning combines traditional teaching methods with online learning. This approach allows for flexible time management and offers education in a format that best suits the students.

In addition to traditional lessons and lectures, other methods are used: project work, discussions, research, presentations, games, and other interactive approaches. These methods help students better absorb information and develop creative thinking.

Another important aspect of teaching methods in Toronto high schools is support for students with special needs. Special programs and resources are provided for students with disabilities and individual requirements.

In Toronto, there are schools that are not funded by public resources, but rather made for profit and run on tuition paid by parents. These schools range greatly in type and provide education from the elementary to the secondary grades.

A great thing about these private schools is that they work on a favorable student-teacher ratio, allowing for the formation of smaller groups and thus a more personalized approach to learning. These features make learning more effective, boost kids' motivation, and facilitate learning.

Private schools in Toronto offer a large variety of programs and extracurricular activities, which include sports, arts, and STEM-related activities.They also tend to hold higher educational standards and expectations for their students.

Yet tuition cost for private schools in Toronto is almost always more than that of public schools, which may be quite challenging for many families. However, some private institutions offer financial assistance programs and scholarships for gifted students, which can really make such schools more available.