We typically think of studying abroad as secondary schools, but more and more students are pursuing their high school education abroad in countries like Canada. Students from other countries can get the best education available in Canada at a significantly lower cost than in other countries. From the cost of living and accommodation expenses to its tuition fees, it is highly competitive in the marketplace.

If you’re a student who wants to pursue your studies in the second year in another country, Canada is an excellent option! Here are nine facts to know regarding high schools in Canada to make the decision simpler.

1. Why should international students attend the High School of Canada?

Canada is renowned for its exceptional standard of living and world-class education. About 642,000 students from around the world were studying in Canada in 2019. In 2020, it was reduced it about 531,000 due to the COVID-19 epidemic. Even with this decrease, the number of students enrolled in 2020 is still among Canada’s highest in 2018 and the year. Even though COVID has transformed how our world works, it hasn’t changed how critical international students have been to Canada. The federal and provincial governments have continued to make their efforts to attract students and aid post-secondary students to remain in Canada following graduation.

Modern Classrooms

Technology is constantly evolving, and students must stay current with requirements to be ready for the workforce. Digital literacy is a must for post-secondary school students and is essential for numerous jobs. Canada’s public education system is well-funded and ensures that students have access to the most up-to-date technology in the classroom, such as tablets, interactive whiteboards, and information labs.

Internship and Co-Op Opportunities

Internships and Co-op opportunities assist international students in completing their education with practical work experiences. These opportunities are a way for the students to get high-school credits through a work placement.

They also provide an excellent opportunity for students to think about the possibilities of their future careers and develop techniques while gaining experience. They will be prepared to enter post-secondary school or into the workforce with the knowledge and experience to succeed.

Excellent Staff

Teachers in Canada are tightly controlled and must possess specific qualifications to instruct. Students are guaranteed a consistent and quality the instruction they receive.

Teachers at high schools are experts in their field, which guarantees that teachers thoroughly understand the subjects they teach.

Alongside knowledgeable instructors, Canadian high schools offer assistance to their staff and guidance counselors who can help students excel. Guidance counselors, for instance, can assist students who are struggling academically and guide them on their career paths.

Internationally Recognized Credentials

Post-secondary institutions around the world accept Canadian graduation certificates from high schools. Due to Canada’s consistent and robust education system, diplomas are coveted worldwide.

In addition to the required graduation certificates from high schools, many secondary schools also offer international programs to aid students’ post-secondary applications. For instance, you can take the International Baccalaureate is offered at many schools across Canada. This diploma follows a common grade system and rigorous curriculum, allowing universities and colleges to translate grades to their local system quickly.

2. How Long Is the High School In Canada?

The education system in Canada is managed at a provincial level, which means the length of time will vary based on the province. The majority of provinces offer high school for four years, ranging from grades 9-to 12. Some start in the 10th grade. Students usually graduate in the year they turn 18.

Quebec recognizes secondary school to grades 7-11. In Quebec, students can apply to colleges with their Grade 11 diplomas. However, they must obtain a Diploma of College Studies if they plan to attend an institution of higher learning.

The Canadian school year begins from September through June. It is typically divided into two terms: the month of September, January, and February through June.

3. Does High School in Canada Cost-free?

The public high schools of Canada are completely free for Canadian residents. However, many charge tuition charges for students from abroad. The fees typically range between C$8,000 and C$15,000.

Students are usually also accountable for providing their lunches and other stationery items, though textbooks and other resources are typically available from the school.

4. What is the Admissions Process to High Schools in Canada for International students?

The admission process to the Canadian secondary school is generally more relaxed than in universities. This minimum requirement usually is just a passing mark (50 percent average).

Students will also need to submit various documents to support their application. These documents include:

• A duplicate of their passport
• The history of the school over the last three years
• An application form that is completed
• A declaration of admissibility

Students from other countries must demonstrate an intermediate or high degree of English proficiency to be able to study at an English-speaking school in Canada. The majority of applications are completed without taking an English test of language. However, students might be required to take one online following an acceptance invitation. If a student is found to have an inadequate degree in English, they may be required to attend ESL classes which can be costly.

5. What are the subjects you take in High School in Canada?

Every province in Canada provides a relevant and stimulating curriculum that offers an extensive range of classes for students to choose from; these courses train students to tackle real-world problems, build the ability to think critically and prepare for their future careers.

Students must take many core classes, such as math sciences, science, and English, for their diplomas from high school. The subjects are taught at various levels and include classes designed to meet the requirements for admission to universities.

Students may also choose to take special classes that cater to specific interests or expertise, like film, business, or social science courses.

6. Can high school students work in Canada?

The age at which you can work in Canada differs by province but generally ranges between 14 and 15 years old. In Canada, the Canada Labour Code allows people under the age of 17 to work so long as the work isn’t in conflict with school time. Students from high schools abroad studying in Canada on a visa are not qualified to work.

7. How is High School in Canada different from the US?

Indeed, Canada’s Canadian secondary schooling system is usually like that of the US. The main difference is that each school is designed to accommodate post-secondary applications within the same nation. That is why US high schools usually aid students in preparation for SAT examinations that aren’t required to be enrolled in Canadian universities.

The terminology can differ between Canada and the US. For instance, American high schools tend to use terms such as “freshman,” “sophomore,” “junior,” and “senior” to indicate various levels. Contrarily, Canadian high schools more often use the term grades 9, 10, 11, or 12.

There’s also less emphasis on sports at Canadian secondary schools though the sports teams and athletic extracurriculars remain very popular.

8. What does High School in Canada? What does it mean for post-secondary education?

A Canadian High School diploma could dramatically improve international students’ odds of being admitted into post-secondary schools compared to an international certificate. These are because Canadian universities and colleges can identify and assess the level of education.

International students interested in applying for post-secondary institutions within America, the US, and Canadian high school qualifications are as valuable as US diplomas. Canadian students can also enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) classes offered in American high schools.

US colleges and universities generally have standard requirements for admission. Students in high school in Canada can locate nearby SAT and ACT preparatory courses and testing centers that permit them to satisfy these requirements.

9. Where can International students from High Schools Be in Canada?

Canadian high schools that accept international students often provide exchange programs that let students stay in a home with a host family within the school throughout their academic studies. Being a part of the hosts is an excellent opportunity for students of all nationalities to get acquainted with their home country’s culture and practice their English. They also offer support to students living abroad, ensuring that students’ families are taken well.

Are you ready to start your journey? Apply to more than 500 Canadian high schools via ApplyBoard!