Education in Canada

Canada offers high-quality education at all levels, with strong public schools and internationally recognized universities.

K-12 Education

Public schools (free):

Funded by taxes
Quality generally consistent across neighborhoods (unlike US)
French immersion programs available
Inclusive of students with disabilities

Private schools:

Cost: $10,000-40,000/year
Religious, alternative pedagogies, or elite institutions
Less common than in US

Catholic/separate schools:

Publicly funded in some provinces
Available to Catholic families (and sometimes others)

Enrolling Children

Requirements:

Proof of immigration status
Proof of address
Immunization records
Previous school records (if available)

Important: Schools cannot ask about immigration status. All children have the right to education regardless of their or their parents' status.

English Language Learners (ELL):

Support programs in all public schools
Children typically become fluent within 2-3 years
No additional cost

Higher Education

Types of institutions:

Type	Annual Cost (Domestic)	International
College (2-year)	$3,000-8,000	$15,000-25,000
University	$6,000-15,000	$25,000-60,000
Top universities	$8,000-20,000	$40,000-65,000

Differences from US:

Generally more affordable for domestic students
Large gap between domestic and international fees
Graduate programs more accessible
Less emphasis on "elite" schools for career success

Top Universities

Global rankings:

University of Toronto
UBC (Vancouver)
McGill (Montreal)
University of Alberta
McMaster University

By field:

Tech: Waterloo, UBC, Toronto
Business: Rotman (Toronto), Ivey (Western), Schulich (York)
Engineering: Waterloo, Toronto, McGill
Medicine: Toronto, McGill, UBC

Post-Secondary for Newcomers

Study permits lead to work permits:

PGWP: 1-3 years after graduation
Pathway to permanent residence
2026 changes tightened eligibility

Credential recognition:

Foreign degrees may need evaluation (WES, IQAS)
Some professions require Canadian certification
Bridging programs available

Continuing Education

Options for adults:

College continuing education
University extension programs
Professional certifications
LINC (free language classes)
Skills training through provincial programs

School Calendar

September to June (most provinces)
Summer break: July-August
Winter break: 2 weeks in December
Spring break: 1 week in March

Pro Tips

•Public schools are high quality and consistent - expensive neighborhoods not necessary
•French immersion is popular and gives children bilingual advantage
•International student fees are much higher - check PGWP pathway value
•Get foreign credentials assessed early (WES)
•Community colleges offer excellent career-focused programs

Education