secondary education

technical schools

universities/colleges

School system in Canada

Secondary education refers to high school, usually ranging from Grades 8 to 10 (known as Junior High) and Grades 11 to 12 (known as Senior High).  The grades may vary according to provinces.  Secondary education in Canada is funded by the government and is compulsory for all kids until the age 16.  Youth can continue to attend high school from 19 to 21, and those 19 and over can choose to attend night high school.

Many foreign students come to Canada to attend secondary schools.  Canada spends more on education (as a percentage of GDP) compared to the OECD average, and is the second highest among G-8 countries, and a Canadian degree or diploma is well regarded by countries around the world.

Foreign student tuition fees in Canada is lower in comparison to countries such as the U.K., Australia, New Zealand and the USA.  For details on schools and fees, visit www.studycanada.ca

Technical schools or community colleges refer to schools that offer skills or vocation specific programs.   Courses usually take one or two years to complete but some programs can take up to four years.  For a listing of trade schools or community colleges, visit http://www.trade-schools.ca

Universities in Canada are well-known throughout the world.  Fees at universities are higher than those at community colleges.   Programs range from bachelor's (undergraduate) degree to graduate and doctorate degrees.  For a listing of colleges and universities in Canada, visit http://www.aucc.ca/index_e.html

Private Universities or colleges are private schools that do not receive government funding.  The school fees for private schools are generally higher.  Enrollment times can be more flexible than those of publicly funded universities or colleges.  Private colleges also offer condensed programs that deliver training over a shorter period of time.  Canada has some very fine, reputable private colleges in specialized fields.

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Other relevant articles for students who want to study in Canada:
How to apply for a student permit
Evaluation of foreign education credentials
Read about the Education Profile of adult population in Canada  aged 25-64.