Did you know that many Canadian primary and secondary schools are open to international students? Youth from around the world may attend world-class programs, from kindergarten to grade 12, all across Canada. ApplyBoard is proud to partner with over 580 of these primary and secondary schools. Check out the eligible private and public institutions on the ApplyBoard Platform and read on to learn why it’s a great idea to study internationally at Canadian K-12 schools!
2021 was a record-breaking year for international students in Canada. Explore the data with our ApplyInsights team!
Why Study Internationally for Primary/Secondary School?
Every student can benefit from studying abroad. Some of the most popular reasons include:
- Building empathy and cross-cultural awareness
- Joining Canada’s high-quality, world-renowned education system
- Exploring unique educational programs
- Learning key career skills via internship and co-operative education
- Improving language skills
- English is the language of instruction in most parts of Canada, but French Immersion schools will teach classes in French
- Classes are taught in French in Quebec
- Classes are taught in both English and French in New Brunswick
Canadian schools also provide technology to build students’ digital literacy and STEM skills. Whether the school you choose has digital literacy labs with 3D printers and iPads, or teaches coding classes, many Canadian educators work hard to prepare learners for a tech-forward future.
In turn, having international students in primary and secondary schools builds all students’ global competence. Global competence refers to students’ cultural awareness, ability to challenge inherent biases, and their teamwork and communication skills. All of these abilities will help to prepare students for their future careers and lives in an increasingly interconnected world.
Check out the most in-demand technical skills and interpersonal skills on our blog!
Choose Your Stream
In Canada, international students can join select classes either in the public or private school systems. This openness helps to make Canada the fourth most attractive country for international students in the world, following the United States, the United Kingdom, and China. Boarding school opportunities are also available to local and international students. These institutions give students an opportunity like no other to connect with global peers in academic and social settings.
Public Schools
The number of study abroad options available in Canada might surprise you. Over 120 public school boards or districts work with the Canadian Association of Public Schools – International (CAPS-I).
These include public and Catholic school boards in major centres ranging from Toronto to Calgary, and smaller cities like Nanaimo, British Columbia and Fredericton, New Brunswick. Canada’s well-respected public school system connects international students with local students, giving them first-hand experience with Canadian culture.
Boarding Schools
The ApplyBoard team is also proud to support the work of many members of the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) network. CAIS represents over 90 premier boarding and day schools located across Canada, and ensures schools meet national-level standards and provide educational excellence.
These schools include:
- Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School in British Columbia
- Stanstead College in Quebec
- Upper Canada College in Ontario
Private Schools
While fewer in number, specialty private schools range in scope from a strong academic focus to specific arts or athletic programs, particularly at the high school level. Many of these schools are guided by the standards set out by CAIS. These private schools can prepare you or your children for a custom educational experience you won’t find anywhere else!
Some of the private schools you’ll find on the ApplyBoard Platform include:
- Braemar College in Ontario
- Columbia Academy in British Columbia
- Kells Academy in Quebec
Want to become an international student at a Canadian high school? Dive into how studying in Canada for high school will set you ahead of the competition.
Don’t just take our word for it! In a 2021 survey of international students from the Canadian Bureau for International Education, over 86% said that they would recommend Canada as an international study destination. Some of the top reasons shared by students included Canada’s quality education systems, and reputation as a safe and tolerant country that encourages multiculturalism.
Every kind of student can thrive in Canada: from the passionate artist to the budding mathematician, and everyone in-between. Are you ready to join them?
Start your study abroad journey with ApplyBoard! Many of us have been international students, and we’re here to help.
