Beyond tuition, plan for an application fee, health insurance, accommodation and a set of smaller school and personal costs.
- Application fee: District application fees are typically CAD 200 to 800, with a median of about CAD 300, and are usually non-refundable (Canada High Schools school database, October 2026).
- Health insurance: Where it is charged separately, annual medical insurance is typically around CAD 500 to 1,100. Some districts include it in tuition, so check what the fee covers.
- Accommodation costs: Homestay is billed monthly, and many programs also charge a one-time placement fee and an airport pickup fee. Custodianship may carry a separate fee.
- School items: Public schools rarely require uniforms; many private schools do. Budget for supplies, a laptop if required, activity or athletics fees and optional trips.
- Immigration and travel: Add IRCC fees for the study permit and biometrics, any medical exam, flights and monthly pocket money.
Please note: Ask each school for a full written fee schedule so that no cost is a surprise.
Official sources: CAPS-I: Standards of Practice · Toronto Catholic DSB: International tuition fees
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More questions on this topic
- How much does a year of high school in Canada cost?
- Are public high schools free for international students?
- Are scholarships available to international high school students?
- How much do accommodation and living expenses cost per year?
- Can fees be paid in instalments, or must they be paid in full up front?
- How does the refund policy work if an application or acceptance is cancelled?