CANADIAN PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Canadian Private School Admissions

Admissions guidance for students seeking entry to Grades 6–12 at Canadian independent schools.

From school selection and test preparation to applications, interviews, and enrollment, we guide families through each stage of the admissions process, including study permit and custodianship requirements where applicable.

SSAT / CAT4Private school admissions assessments
Dec–FebTypical application deadlines
Day / BoardingSchool attendance options

Why a Private School

Small Classes

Small class sizes allow teachers to give students more individual attention and closely follow their academic progress.

University Counselling

Many independent schools offer university counselling to help students navigate the admissions process, along with advanced academic programs such as AP or IB where available.

Boarding or Day

Students can choose between day and boarding schools based on their needs and circumstances. International families should also consider housing and custodianship requirements when planning their applications.

Co-curricular Life

Athletics, arts, and leadership programs enrich student life and provide opportunities to develop interests, skills, and confidence beyond the classroom.

Our Services

School Selection

We help families identify schools that align with each student's academic background, interests, and budget.

  • Day and boarding school comparisons
  • Single-sex and coeducational school options
  • Campus visit and open house guidance

Entrance Test Preparation

Tailored preparation for the SSAT, CAT4, or school-specific assessments, depending on each school's admissions requirements.

  • Diagnostic assessments and study plans
  • Preparation for SSAT verbal, reading, quantitative, and writing sections
  • English proficiency test preparation, when required

Applications and Essays

Guidance on student questionnaires, short essays, and parent statements, along with support in coordinating references.

  • Application portal guidance and deadline tracking
  • Student essay and parent statement support
  • Coordination of references and school reports

Interview Preparation

Mock interviews designed to help students build confidence and communicate their strengths and interests effectively.

  • Practice with common admissions interview questions
  • Preparation for online and in-person interviews
  • Guidance for parent interviews

Enrollment Guidance

Post-admission guidance on enrollment requirements, study permit applications, custodianship, and housing arrangements.

  • Admission offer comparison and enrollment support
  • Study permit application support
  • Custodianship and housing guidance

Application Process

  1. 1

    Initial Assessment

    We review each student's academic background, interests, and family goals to establish an appropriate entry grade and application timeline.

  2. 2

    Build the School List

    Based on the initial assessment, we identify five to eight schools that align with the student's academic background, interests, and family budget.

  3. 3

    Tests and Visits

    Students prepare for any required admissions tests while exploring prospective schools through open houses and campus visits.

  4. 4

    Submit Applications

    Application materials, including essays, school reports, and references, are submitted by each school's deadline.

  5. 5

    Interviews

    Students and parents attend admissions interviews as required by each school.

  6. 6

    Offers and Enrollment

    After admissions decisions are released, families review their offers, complete enrollment requirements, and begin any necessary study permit applications, housing arrangements, and custodianship procedures.

Application Materials

Requirements vary by school and grade level. Additional documentation may be needed after admission.

Academic Records

  • Academic transcripts or school reports (as required by each school)
  • References or teacher recommendations (as specified by each school)
  • Admissions test results (SSAT, CAT4, or other accepted assessments, if required)

Forms and Essays

  • Student questionnaires or short essays
  • Parent statements or questionnaires
  • Application fee (or fee waiver, if eligible)

For International Students

  • English proficiency test results (if required)
  • Valid passport
  • Study permit application (if applicable, after admission)
  • Custodianship arrangements (if required)

Frequently Asked Questions

When should we start?

We recommend starting 12–18 months before your intended enrollment date. This allows time to research schools, prepare for required assessments, attend open houses, and complete applications before each school's deadline.

Which grade is best for entry?

Entry grades vary by school. Many independent schools have designated entry points with more available places, while admission to other grades depends on vacancies.

Is the SSAT required?

Not always. Some schools require the SSAT, while others use the CAT4 or their own admissions assessments. Requirements may also vary by grade level, so check each school's testing policy before registering.

Day or boarding?

Day schools are generally suitable for students who live locally or with family, while boarding schools provide on-campus accommodation. International day students may also need to arrange housing and custodianship, depending on their circumstances.

What does it cost?

Costs vary by school. Boarding fees generally cover tuition, accommodation, and meals, but additional expenses may apply. Explore our school directory for published tuition information and confirm the latest fees directly with each school.

Which schools would suit your child?

Share your child's current grade, academic background, and goals. Our team can help you explore suitable schools and plan the next steps in the application process.

Book a Consultation