How do I apply for an Arts Canterbury program for the 2026/2027 school year? 

The Arts Canterbury application period is open from November 10th at 4:00 pm - December 1st 2025.

Follow the steps on the Apply!  page.  Be sure to read all the information. 

How many programs can I apply for?

You can only apply for 1 arts discipline. 

What if my preferred name/pronouns is different than my legal name?

We use your legal name for documents, but we are happy to use your preferred name/pronouns throughout the audition process. 

How do I know if my online application went through?

Once you submit the Arts Canterbury Application Form, you will receive an automated form response.  We will email an 'Audition Confirmation Letter' from 1-10 business days after receiving your form.  If you do not receive this letter within 10 days of your submission, send an email to arts.canterbury@ocdsb.ca

How do I get the Google Meet link if my audition is virtual?

Google Meet links for those with a virtual audition will be included in the Audition Confirmation Letter.

 What if I’m not sure I want to go into the Arts Canterbury Program?

It is important to make this decision before you submit your application since auditioning is an indication that you wish to attend Arts Canterbury and will accept a spot if one is offered. Please apply only if you are interested in the program and joining us in September 2026. 

I made a mistake on my application form, what should I do?

Email arts.canterbury@ocdsb.ca. Identify yourself by first and last name, and the art program to which you are applying.  Explain the mistake and add the correct information. 

Can I apply if I’m already in Grade 9 , 10 or 11 at another school?

Absolutely!  Grade 9, 10 and 11's can apply for all art disciplines.

Do I need to submit my report card with my application?

No, we do not need a copy of your report card until you are accepted into the program for transition purposes only. We do not use report cards to determine if you are accepted or declined.

If I have an IEP, will that hinder my chances of joining the art program?

No, having an IEP will not hinder your chances of getting into the arts program. Many of our students have IEPs.  If you are offered a place in the Arts Program, you will be able to submit a copy of your IEP.

What if I am homeschooled?

If you are currently in Grade 8 (birth year 2011), the application and audition process is the same for everyone including homeschool applicants.

However, if you are applying for Grade 10, 11 or 12 (birth years 2010, 2009, 2008), then you would need to have the prerequisite courses for the grade you are entering. For example: if you are entering Grade 10 then you would need to have completed Grade 9 courses or equivalencies. Documentation may be requested to support the granting of prerequisite credit.

I live far away from Canterbury.  Will I get transportation to school?

Students who are accepted into Arts Canterbury can get transportation if they live within the OCDSB boundaries.  Please note that OSTA (Ottawa Student Transportation Authority) may make changes to any of these options from year to year and Canterbury has no control over these decisions.   

There are several options:

• Students who live within 3.2 km of Canterbury do not get transportation (walking distance)

• Students who live within the OCDSB boundaries will get an OC Transpo bus pass (ex: Orleans, Kanata, Barrhaven)

• Students who live on the outskirts of the OCDSB boundaries may get a seat on a yellow school bus.  Please note that this varies from year-to-year.  For example, in 2024/2025, CHS had yellow buses that go to Stittsville, Osgoode, Navan/Cumberland, Metcalfe and Finley Creek.  This will change each year and is determined by OSTA, not Canterbury.

• Students who live outside of the OCDSB boundaries (ex: Rockland, Limoges, parts of Carp, Quebec), must find their own transportation to Canterbury.

We ask that you practice riding the bus/train to Canterbury BEFORE you make the decision to apply and that you understand the dedication involved in longer commutes. Commutes can be as long as 1.5 hours each way.

OSTA is in charge of busing for the OCDSB and Canterbury does not make decisions regarding transportation.  If you have questions about your situation, please contact OSTA. 

Website: https://www.ocdsb.ca/secondary/transportation 

Phone: 613-224-8800 

Email: admin@ottawaschoolbus.ca 

How do I know if I am ready for the audition?

We endeavour to be clear about what will occur at the auditions and how applicants will be evaluated.  Please read the audition requirements carefully to understand the specific criteria of your program. 

How many people audition to Arts Canterbury?

Each year the number is different. Last year, we had around 600 applicants. The admission process is competitive and every year is different! We recommended you pick the program that suits your interests and strengths as the amount of work you put into the auditions/portfolios increases your chances!

I have changed my mind and want to withdraw my application.  What do I do?

Email arts.canterbury@ocdsb.ca to explain the situation.  Make sure to leave your first and last name, and the art to which you are applying. 

Where can I park for my audition?

Please park in the large lot on the east side of the school that contains the portables.  The lot on the west side is reserved for staff members.  We have also received permission from the Alta Vista Baptist Church across the street to use their parking lot if the CHS lot is full.  Full information will be in your Arts Canterbury Confirmation Letter. 

What should I bring to the audition?

The Audition Confirmation Letter will let you know what you need to bring to the audition as it varies.

When will I find out if I have been accepted?

All candidates will be informed of results in an email to their primary contact in March 2026. We will send all results letters after school on the same day between 4:00 - 8:00 PM. Exact date TBD.  

My friend received an acceptance email or letter already, does this mean I didn't get in?

All applicants will receive their results in March on the same day (Date TBD) between 4:00 - 8:00 PM. 

What if I’m on a waitlist?

Some students are not accepted immediately into an Arts program, but are put on a waitlist. Sometimes people decline their spot and we invite students from the waitlist to attend Canterbury.  If you are on the waitlist and a spot becomes available, we will email you between April - June. In a few cases, a spot becomes available in September.

Do I have to pay to attend Canterbury?

Canterbury High School is a publicly-funded high school; however, to support the enriched Arts Program it is mandatory that each Arts student from Grades 9-12 to pay a Yearly Arts Fee of $250. This fee pays for visiting artists, specialized equipment, materials and facilities, technicians, repairs, models and accompanists that are not part of any regular arts program available in any other school.  Without this financial support, our means of offering an enriched program will be significantly reduced.  However, students experiencing economic hardship will not be turned away. For those who can not pay the fee, families can apply for a subsidy. 

I didn’t make it!  Does that mean I lack talent?

No!!! The lack of acceptance to the program does not indicate a lack of talent or potential. We can only fit 20 or 26 students in each class and so our space is limited. We sincerely hope that all candidates continue to practice and enjoy their art.  Art Programs exist throughout the OCDSB and in the community, and we hope you will take part in these classes and events.

Can I call the Arts Coordinator to find out if I’ve been accepted?

Please do not call the Arts Coordinator for results. For valid questions, please email arts.canterbury@ocdsb.ca and explain your question in detail.

If I don’t make it this year, can I reapply next year?

Yes! We welcome students re-auditioning for Grades 10, 11 and 12 (except in visual arts)!  

Please understand, however, that open spaces in the Grades 10, 11, and 12 classes are limited, so it is more challenging to enter in a later grade.