Enrolling Your Children in Canadian Schools

Education in Canada is publicly funded and free for all permanent residents and citizens from kindergarten (age 4–5) through grade 12 (age 17–18). Education is administered by provincial and territorial governments, so the curriculum, school year, and enrolment process vary by province. Most children start kindergarten at age 4 or 5, depending on the province. School is mandatory from age 6 (grade 1) until age 16–18, depending on the province. Public schools are free, but you may need to pay for school supplies, field trips, extracurricular activities, and hot lunch programs. Catholic schools are publicly funded in some provinces (Ontario, Alberta, Saskatchewan). Private schools charge tuition ($10,000–$30,000/year) and are not necessary for a good education — many public schools are excellent. French immersion programs are available in most public schools if you want your child to become bilingual. To enrol your child, contact your local school board or the school directly. You will need your child's birth certificate, passport, immigration documents, proof of address, and immunization records. Some schools may also ask for previous school records translated into English or French. The school year runs from early September to late June, with a 2-week winter break and a 1-week spring break (March). After completing grade 12, students can apply to colleges and universities, which are not free but are more affordable than in many other countries ($3,000–$8,000/year for domestic students).