No. English and French are both official languages, and students can study in English, in French, or in a mix of the two, depending on the province and the school.
- English-language schools: Outside Quebec, most schools teach in English, and this is where the majority of international students enrol.
- French-language schools: Every province and territory has French-language school boards for French-first-language education, as CMEC confirms.
- French immersion: Many English-language districts offer immersion, where part of the timetable is taught in French. French is also taught as a subject in regular English programs.
- Quebec: French is the usual language of public schooling. English public schools require a certificate of eligibility or, for temporary stays, a temporary authorization linked to the family's immigration documents.
- Choosing a language: The CAPS-I school search lists both English and French as languages of study, so families can filter districts accordingly.
Please note: Quebec's eligibility rules for English instruction are specific; confirm your child's situation with the Quebec school before applying.
Official sources: CMEC: Education in Canada, An Overview · QESBA: Eligibility for English public schools in Quebec · CAPS-I: Canadian Association of Public Schools International
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