What Is a Canadian International School?

A Canadian international school offers curriculum and educational approaches based on Canadian provincial education systems.

These schools represent a growing segment in international education. To provide a range of curriculum to students (and expat families) to help make the transition much smoother. For example, British international schools, American international schools and Australian international schools.

And while they obviously have a large appeal to Canadian families, a Canadian international school can also offer a lot of benefits to all types of families.

Let’s take a closer look.

What Is a Canadian International School?

A Canadian international school is an educational institution located outside Canada that follows a Canadian provincial curriculum, typically from Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, or Nova Scotia.

These types of international schools deliver instruction primarily in English (with French language also often available). They award Canadian provincial high school diplomas that are recognised all around the world.

Unlike some other international school systems, Canadian international schools are decentralised. This reflects Canada’s provincial approach to education. Each school is typically accredited by and follows the curriculum of a specific Canadian province rather than a national standard.

How Canadian International Schools Work

Curriculum and Accreditation

These schools typically implement one of the following provincial curricula:

• Ontario Curriculum (most common)
• British Columbia Curriculum
• Alberta Curriculum
• Nova Scotia Curriculum

Accreditation comes from provincial ministries of education rather than a centralised federal authority. A Canadian international school will typically undergo inspections to maintain its accreditation status and the ability to award recognised Canadian diplomas.

Staffing Structure

Most Canadian international schools employ:

• A significant percentage of Canadian-certified teachers
• Local staff for language, cultural, and regulatory support
• A blend of other international educators

Academic Year and Structure

• Typically follows the Canadian academic calendar (September to June)
• Divided into semesters or terms
• Often incorporates Canadian holiday observances alongside local ones

Why Families Choose Canadian International Schools

Educational Philosophy

The Canadian approach to education emphasises:

• Holistic development
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Inclusive education practices
• Balance between academic and social-emotional development
• Environmental awareness and sustainability

Global Recognition

Canadian diplomas are widely recognised for university admissions worldwide, including at top institutions in the US, UK, Europe, and Asia.

Canada’s education system consistently ranks among the best in the world, and often in the top five countries globally.

According to U.S News and World Report, Canada consistently ranks high in the ‘Best Countires for Education’ rankings. And in 2024, Canada was ranked fourth. 

The OECD states that Canada is known as a top-performing country in reading literacy, mathematics, and science. 

Benefits of Canadian International Schools

Educational Advantages

• Student-centred approach emphasising inquiry and critical thinking
• Strong foundational skills in math, sciences, and language arts
• Emphasis on global citizenship and intercultural understanding
• Generally less testing-focused than some other systems
• Balanced approach to academics, arts, and physical education

Social and Cultural Benefits

• Reputation for inclusive learning environments
• Strong emphasis on multiculturalism, reflecting Canada’s values
• Supportive communities for international families
• Focus on character development and social responsibility

Practical Benefits

• Canadian high school diplomas provide straightforward pathways to universities worldwide
• Can be more affordable than American or British international schools depending on the destination
• Generally high academic standards with consistent quality control

Potential Drawbacks

Administrative Considerations

• Less standardisation across schools compared to other international systems
• Each provincial curriculum has different requirements and benchmarks
• May require additional work to understand equivalencies when transferring

Cultural Perspectives

• Less globally recognised than IB or AP in some regions
• May emphasise Canadian content that isn’t universally relevant
• French language requirements in some curricula may be challenging for non-French speakers

Practical Challenges

• Fewer Canadian international schools worldwide compared to American, British, or IB options
• Limited availability outside major urban centres

Canadian International Schools by Region

Asia-Pacific

• China: Canadian International School of Beijing
• Hong Kong: Canadian International School of Hong Kong
• Singapore: Canadian International School of Singapore
• Japan: Canadian Academy (Kobe)
• South Korea: Branksome Hall Asia

Middle East

• United Arab Emirates: Canadian International School Dubai
• Egypt: British Columbia Canadian International School (Cairo)

Europe

• Switzerland: Neuchâtel Junior College (Ontario curriculum)
• Italy: Canadian School of Florence

Latin America

• Mexico: Canadian School of Puebla
• Brazil: Canadian School of Brasilia

Africa

• Nigeria: Canada International College

Canadian International School Wrap Up

Canadian international schools offer a distinct educational approach that balances academic excellence with holistic development.

They place an emphasis on critical thinking, inclusivity, and global citizenship. This can appeal to many international families who are looking for quality education and recognised credentials.

While there aren’t as many Canadian international schools as some other international school systems, they can provide a supportive education with strong values for your family.