Top 10 Things to Know About High School in Canada [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR
High school in Canada typically runs from grades 9–12 (ages 14–18) and offers public, private, and international student programs. Key facts: free public education for residents, province-regulated curricula, and pathways to university/college. Use Evola AI’s CLB Converter if you need to align language scores for admission.

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How Does High School Work in Canada?

Canadian high schools operate under provincial education ministries, with slight variations by region.

• Public schools are free for residents; international students pay tuition (CAD $15,000–$25,000/year).
• Credits system: Students complete 18–30 credits (varies by province) to graduate.
• Diploma types: Some provinces award OSSD (Ontario) or Dogwood Diploma (BC).
• Evola tip: Check your province’s education website for credit requirements.

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What Are the Grade Levels in Canadian High Schools?

Most provinces structure high school as grades 9–12 (ages 14–18).

• Quebec exception: Ends at grade 11, followed by CEGEP (pre-university college).
• Common pathways:
  1. Academic: Prepares for university (e.g., Advanced Placement courses).
  2. Vocational: Hands-on training for trades.
  3. International Baccalaureate (IB): Offered at select schools.

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Can International Students Attend Canadian High Schools?

Yes, with a study permit and acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI).

• Requirements:
  • Proof of English/French proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/DELF).
  • Custodian declaration (if under 18).
  • Health insurance (mandatory in most provinces).
• Evola tool: Estimate admission odds with our Immigration Success Predictor.

According to IRCC’s international student guidelines, study permits typically process within 12 weeks.

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How Much Does High School Cost in Canada?

Public schools are free for Canadian residents; costs vary for others.

Student Type	Annual Tuition (CAD)	Additional Fees
Domestic (public)	$0	$100–$500
International	$15,000–$25,000	$1,000–$3,000
Private school	$20,000–$70,000	Varies

Source: Ontario’s education cost breakdown

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What Subjects Are Taught in Canadian High Schools?

Core subjects include math, science, English/French, and social studies, plus electives like coding or drama.

• Provincial examples:
  • Alberta: Requires Career and Life Management (CALM).
  • BC: Includes Indigenous studies.
• Evola insight: Some schools count volunteer hours toward graduation (check BC’s curriculum).

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How Do Canadian High Schools Support Newcomers?

Most offer ESL programs and settlement services.

• Support includes:
  • Language assistance (e.g., Ontario’s STEP program).
  • Academic counseling for credit transfers.
  • Cultural orientation workshops.

According to IRCC’s newcomer resources, schools often partner with local immigrant organizations.

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What Extracurriculars Are Available?

From robotics clubs to hockey teams, options vary by school.

• Top activities:
  1. Sports (basketball, soccer, skiing).
  2. Arts (band, theater).
  3. STEM competitions.
• Bonus: Elite universities value well-rounded applicants.

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How Does Grading Work in Canadian High Schools?

Most use percentage grades (50% = passing), but some provinces use letter grades (A–F).

• University admissions: Competitive programs often require 80%+ averages.
• Evola tip: Convert global grades with our CLB Converter.

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What Are the Post-Graduation Options?

High school diplomas unlock:

1. University: Apply via OUAC (Ontario) or ApplyBC.
2. College: Diploma/certificate programs (e.g., Seneca, George Brown).
3. Work: Some provinces let international graduates apply for PR.

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How Can Parents Get Involved?

Attend parent-teacher conferences or join school councils.

• Key rights:
  • Access to student records.
  • Participation in IEP meetings (for special needs).

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Final Thoughts
Canadian high schools blend academic rigor with inclusivity, offering pathways for all students. Explore more with Evola AI’s tools to navigate admissions or immigration steps confidently.