Canada is home to some of the best private high schools in the world. Known for their academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and university placements, these schools attract both local and international students. Choosing the right high school can shape a student’s career path, leadership skills, and overall personal development.
In this updated 2024 guide, we highlight the top 10 private high schools in Canada. Each listing includes tuition fees, facilities, reviews, and key highlights so you can make an informed decision.
1. Upper Canada College (Toronto, Ontario)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 35,000 – 45,000 per year
- Grades: K–12 (Boys only)
- Highlights: IB program, strong alumni network, global citizenship focus
Founded in 1829, Upper Canada College (UCC) is one of the oldest and most prestigious boys’ schools in Canada. It offers both day and boarding programs with a strong emphasis on leadership, academics, and extracurriculars. Graduates regularly secure spots at Ivy League and top Canadian universities.
Perfect for: Boys aiming for global leadership and strong academic preparation.
2. St. Michael’s University School (Victoria, BC)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 28,000 – 60,000 per year
- Grades: K–12 (Co-ed)
- Highlights: Boarding, AP program, strong arts & athletics
Located in Victoria, SMUS attracts students from over 30 countries. Known for its balanced curriculum, SMUS offers strong academics alongside arts, athletics, and leadership programs. Its boarding community makes it popular among international students.Perfect for: Students seeking boarding life with a balance of academics and extracurriculars.
3. Bishop Strachan School (Toronto, Ontario)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 32,000 – 65,000 per year
- Grades: JK–12 (Girls only)
- Highlights: STEM programs, leadership training, arts facilities
Founded in 1867, Bishop Strachan School (BSS) is Canada’s leading private school for girls. It empowers students with leadership opportunities, advanced STEM education, and world-class arts programs. Boarding is available for international students.
Perfect for: Girls interested in leadership, STEM, and global exposure.
4. Appleby College (Oakville, Ontario)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 30,000 – 65,000 per year
- Grades: 7–12 (Co-ed)
- Highlights: Global exchange programs, strong athletics, lakeside campus
Appleby College combines traditional Canadian education with global opportunities. Students participate in international exchanges and service learning projects, making it ideal for families who value global exposure.
Perfect for: Students seeking international learning opportunities and diverse extracurriculars.
5. St. George’s School (Vancouver, BC)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 25,000 – 65,000 per year
- Grades: K–12 (Boys only)
- Highlights: Elite sports, advanced science labs, leadership focus
St. George’s School is one of the most prestigious all-boys schools in Canada. It is widely recognized for its athletic programs and academic excellence. Many graduates move on to Ivy League schools and Canada’s top universities.
Perfect for: Boys who want a balance of strong academics and competitive sports.
6. Havergal College (Toronto, Ontario)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 30,000 – 65,000 per year
- Grades: JK–12 (Girls only)
- Highlights: Arts, global leadership, student innovation programs
Founded in 1894, Havergal College is a premier independent girls’ school. It emphasizes leadership, innovation, and arts while preparing students for higher education worldwide.
Perfect for: Girls interested in arts, leadership, and innovative learning.
7. Trinity College School (Port Hope, Ontario)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 25,000 – 65,000 per year
- Grades: 5–12 (Co-ed)
- Highlights: Outdoor education, boarding, environmental programs
Trinity College School is located on a 100-acre campus and is known for its close-knit student community. With a strong focus on outdoor learning and environmental awareness, it provides a unique education experience.
Perfect for: Students who enjoy outdoor activities and holistic learning.
8. Crescent School (Toronto, Ontario)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 32,000 – 45,000 per year
- Grades: 3–12 (Boys only)
- Highlights: Character development, robotics, leadership programs
Crescent School develops “men of character” by focusing on leadership, responsibility, and academic success. Robotics and STEM-focused programs are particularly popular.
Perfect for: Boys who want a strong foundation in leadership and technology.
9. Ashbury College (Ottawa, Ontario)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 25,000 – 65,000 per year
- Grades: 4–12 (Co-ed)
- Highlights: IB program, bilingual education, global diversity
Located in Canada’s capital, Ashbury College is a bilingual, co-ed independent school offering both IB and Canadian curricula. Its international student support makes it popular with expat families.Perfect for: Students looking for a bilingual and globally connected education.
10. Ridley College (St. Catharines, Ontario)
- Tuition Fees: CAD 22,000 – 65,000 per year
- Grades: JK–12 (Co-ed)
- Highlights: Boarding, performing arts, athletics, international community
Ridley College, founded in 1889, is one of Canada’s largest independent boarding schools. With over 700 students from more than 60 countries, it fosters cultural diversity and holistic education.
Perfect for: Students seeking an international, multicultural environment.
Comparison Table – Best Private Schools in Canada 2024
| School | City | Grades | Tuition (CAD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Canada College | Toronto | K–12 | 35k–45k | Boys, Leadership |
| St. Michael’s University | Victoria | K–12 | 28k–60k | Boarding, International |
| Bishop Strachan School | Toronto | JK–12 | 32k–65k | Girls, STEM, Leadership |
| Appleby College | Oakville | 7–12 | 30k–65k | Global Exchange, Athletics |
| St. George’s School | Vancouver | K–12 | 25k–65k | Boys, Sports, Science |
| Havergal College | Toronto | JK–12 | 30k–65k | Girls, Arts, Leadership |
| Trinity College School | Port Hope | 5–12 | 25k–65k | Outdoor Learning, Boarding |
| Crescent School | Toronto | 3–12 | 32k–45k | Boys, Leadership, Robotics |
| Ashbury College | Ottawa | 4–12 | 25k–65k | Bilingual, International, IB |
| Ridley College | St. Catharines | JK–12 | 22k–65k | Diversity, Boarding, Arts |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is the No.1 private school in Canada?
Upper Canada College and St. George’s School are often ranked highest due to their academic strength and alumni networks.
How much is private school tuition in Canada?
On average, tuition ranges from CAD 22,000 to 65,000 per year, depending on whether students are day scholars or boarders.
Are Canadian private schools good for international students?
Yes. Schools like Appleby College, Ridley College, and Ashbury College welcome international students with strong support systems.
Conclusion
The best private high schools in Canada 2024 offer more than academics—they provide leadership development, global exposure, and lifelong connections. Whether you prefer boys-only, girls-only, or co-ed institutions, these schools deliver world-class opportunities.
