School
do you know
High school runs from grades 9 to 12 in most Canadian provinces and territories, except Quebec, which starts in grade 7 and ends in grade 12. After successfully completing high school at age 17 or 18, students can go on to college or university.
Attending high school in Canada
Each province and territory decides when the school year starts and ends, although it usually begins in September and ends in June. School hours generally run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. or later, from Monday to Friday. Some students attend summer school. This happens when they need to complete a course they did not finish during the school year.
Types of High School
- Public high schools
In most parts of Canada, international students can choose to study in English, French or both. Some provinces offer a separate school system that includes classes in religion.
Many parents send their teenagers to Canada for a study abroad experience. Students live with Canadian families, learn about the culture, gain memories to last a lifetime and earn an outstanding education at the same time.
2. Private High School
Canada also has private secondary schools. They charge fees for attendance. Private schools must deliver the same curriculum as public schools in the province or territory. This ensures that students complete the same course of study as they would in the public school system.
Class sizes in private schools are often smaller than public schools where students may benefit from specialized programming. Some private schools will have a religious program as well as standard school subjects. Sometimes, private schools are set up for boys only or for girls only.
Private high schools include boarding schools (with on-site accommodations), alternative schools, international baccalaureate programs and specialized sports programs or schools for students with learning disabilities.
Programs
- Grade 7 to Grade 12
- OSSD
Educational requirements
To enter a high school in Canada, your child may need to show they have:
1. Finished certain grades that correspond to grade levels in Canada
2. Proficient language skills in English or French
3. School results or report cards from their home country
Cost of High School in Canada
Public secondary or high school is free in Canada for residents of the country. Many schools charge fees for international students, which can range from approximately CAD 8,000 to CAD 14,000 per year.
program start date
Ontario college/university programs offer multiple start dates
- Fall Term – August / September
- Winter Term – January
- Spring Term – May
