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The Canadian government provides free public education for every Canadian child. Depending on the province or territory, public education begins at age 4 or 5 and continues up to the age of 15 or 16. The education system is funded, through taxes, by federal, provincial and local governments.
The Canadian education system is categorized into elementary, secondary and post-secondary levels, however there are some differences between provinces and territories. CLICK HERE to see the Grade Structure, by province.
Many Canadian parents home-school their children rather than using the public education system. CLICK HERE to learn more on Home-Schooling in Canada.
It is the responsibility of the parents to register children in school by visiting the local school or school board office. There are various options to consider when choosing the type school, for your children, in Canada (see links provided below).In some cases, a child may have to go through an assessment test (language and mathematics) in order to ensure that the child is placed in the right class.
Transportation to school may be provided to children depending on how far they live from the school at a reasonable cost or no cost. Some parents may decide to drive their children to school and back.
You will require the following documents when registering you children in school:
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (PR card);
• Your child's birth certificate;
• Your child's vaccination certificate;
• Your child's old school records.
Most children begin school at age 4, with part time schooling called Kindergarten. Elementary school generally runs between grades 1 to 8, and Secondary, or "high school" between 9 and 12 (though some provincial and private institution variations exist).The school year runs from September to June, five days a week, for generally six hours a day. Lunches and snacks must be brought from home or purchased at the school cafeteria.
What type of School is best for your child?
There are multiple types of schooling available for your children in Canada:
Public - The public school system in Canada is free. Children are not required to wear uniforms.
Separate - The separate school system is also free. There is a religious Catholic education component involved in its curriculum. Some separate schools require the students to wear uniforms.
Private - Private schools charge tuition fees, and can be expensive. Some offer a specialized curriculum based on language, religion or academic ability. Uniforms are required at some private schools.
Home schooling - Parents can choose to teach their children at home, but they are expected to meet the same standards and follow the requirements of the public system.
It is important to learn about enrollment as soon as you arrive in Canada. This may need to be done in advance of the school year, and will require identification documents and health records. Contact your local provincial/territorial Ministry of Education by following the below links to find out more.
Postsecondary Education
After high school, many students apply to continue their education at a college or university. Postsecondary education in Canada can be a large expense for many people. However, bursaries, scholarships and financing are available.
Different Types of Post-Secondary Educational Institutions:
Universities grant undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees in academic areas.
Colleges generally offer vocational-based education and grant certificates or diplomas.
Career colleges usually focus on one area (such as information technology) and may be privately owned but still need to be certified to grant credentials.
More information on postsecondary education in Canada:
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