Why a Private School
Small Classes
Most independent schools keep classes small, so teachers can follow each student’s progress closely.
University Counselling
Schools provide university counselling, and many offer AP or IB courses that support applications in Canada and abroad.
Boarding or Day
Some schools offer boarding while others are day-only; international students should plan housing and custodianship early.
Co-curricular Life
Athletics, arts and leadership programs are a big part of school life and of how applicants are assessed.
Our Services
School Selection
We match schools to the student’s grade, academic record, personality and family budget.
- Day versus boarding comparison
- Single-sex or co-ed options
- Campus visits and open-house planning
Entrance Test Preparation
Preparation for the SSAT, CAT4 or school-specific assessments, based on each school’s requirements.
- Diagnostic test and study plan
- SSAT verbal, reading, quantitative and writing
- English proficiency test preparation for international students
Applications and Essays
Guidance on student questionnaires, short essays and parent statements, and coordination of references.
- Application portals and deadline tracking
- Student essay and parent statement guidance
- References and school reports
Interview Preparation
Mock interviews for students and parents so students can present themselves naturally.
- Practice with common interview questions
- Online and on-campus interview preparation
- Key points for parent interviews
Enrollment Guidance
Guidance after admission on enrollment, study permit documents, custodianship and housing.
- Comparing offers and enrolling
- Study permit document guidance
- Explaining custodianship and housing requirements
Application Process
- 1
Initial Assessment
We review the student’s grade, record, interests and family goals, then set the target entry grade and timeline.
- 2
Build the School List
Considering day or boarding, location and budget, we settle on a list of five to eight schools.
- 3
Tests and Visits
In the fall, the student takes the required tests and attends open houses or campus visits.
- 4
Submit Applications
In winter, applications, essays, school reports and references go in by each school’s deadline.
- 5
Interviews
The student and parents attend interviews as scheduled by each school.
- 6
Offers and Enrollment
We compare offers, complete enrollment, and prepare study permit, housing and custodianship arrangements.
Application Materials
Academic Records
- School reports from the last two years
- References from the current school
- Entrance test scores (SSAT, CAT4 or others, as required)
Forms and Essays
- Student questionnaire or short essays
- Parent statement
- Application fee
For International Students
- Proof of English proficiency (as required)
- Passport
- Study permit
- Custodianship arrangements for minors
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we start?
We usually suggest starting 12–18 months ahead: visit schools and take tests in the fall of the year before entry, then apply in winter (most deadlines fall between December and February). Always check each school’s own dates.
Which grade is best for entry?
Many schools take the most new students in Grades 7 and 9; other grades depend on available spaces.
Is the SSAT required?
Not always. Many schools ask for the SSAT, while others use the CAT4 or their own assessment. Check each school’s requirements.
Day or boarding?
Day school suits students who live nearby or with family; boarders live on campus. International day students need to arrange housing and custodianship.
What does it cost?
Fees vary widely by school, and boarding costs considerably more than day tuition. See each school’s published fees in our school directory.
Which schools would suit your child?
Tell us the grade, academic record and goals, and an advisor will suggest schools and an application timeline.
Book a Consultation