Education

International and private schools in Canada

What this entry covers

Education in Canada is run by the provinces and territories, so admission rules, curricula and graduation requirements differ between, say, Ontario and British Columbia. The Canada section of International Schools DB lists private and international schools across the country, and the Vancouver page is a good example of how a single city list is laid out.

Public schools first, for many families

Public schools are free for residents and are the default choice for most Canadian families. Many districts offer French immersion programmes, where much of the teaching is in French from the early years. Children of temporary residents are often eligible for public school, but the rules vary by province and by the parent's permit, so ask the school district.

When families choose a private or international school

Common reasons are a wish for the IB Diploma or another international curriculum, a single-sex school, a religious school, or smaller classes. Several private schools offer boarding, which also brings in students from abroad.

Editor's notes

• Each province issues its own high school diploma. If you expect to move again, ask how the credits transfer.
• Some private schools have entrance tests and interviews well before the school year starts. Check deadlines early.

Entry last checked: October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Use the contact page.