Why Appleby College?
Some families want their child's high school years to combine academics with nature, sports, arts and community service. Appleby's focus on the middle and high school grades meets that expectation. CAIS accreditation shows that the school's management and education quality are reviewed against national standards.
- Those seeking a high-school-focused school: Families who want an institution that puts all its resources into grades 7 to 12. Schools without a lower-school division differ on this point.
- Those who value experiential learning: Families who expect learning to extend beyond the classroom, through trips, outdoor activities and service projects.
- Those starting in grade 9: Families planning to enrol in boarding from the start of high school. Boarding students are accepted from grade 9.
Reasons: what sets Appleby College apart
- Focused structure: Because the school serves only grades 7 to 12, its programs, facilities and guidance are designed around the needs of adolescents.
- Three-division structure: The Middle, Upper and Senior School divisions raise each age group's expectations and responsibilities step by step.
- Experiential education: Experiential learning, global experiences and outdoor education are part of the program, so students reinforce knowledge by applying it.
- Service and leadership: Community service and student leadership are emphasized, so students learn to take responsibility before graduating.
- All-inclusive fees: Tuition is stated to cover curriculum trips, exam fees, access to the health centre and technology resources, which reduces the number of extra costs during the year.
- Language assessment: Applicants whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL, IELTS, TOEFL Jr or Duolingo scores, which shows early whether a student is ready for classes.
- Large campus: The 60-acre campus on Lakeshore Road brings sports and arts facilities together, so after-school activities take place on campus.
Cost analysis: what one school year costs
International boarding tuition is CAD 96,010 per year for 2026-27, covering curriculum trips, exam fees, health centre access and technology resources.
| Item | CAD | When |
|---|---|---|
| International boarding tuition (includes curriculum trips, exam fees, health centre access, technology resources) | 96,010 | listed with the annual fees |
| Registration fee (new students) | 8,500 | one-time |
| Orientation fee (boarding students) | 1,500 | one-time |
| Headline annual fee with boarding | 96,010 | 2026-27 |
| One-time fees in the first year | 10,000 | added to the first year only |
The headline fee works out to about CAD 9,601 per school month over a 10-month year, accommodation and meals included. Flights, pocket money, the study permit fee and biometrics are not included.
Day tuition is not listed; confirm the current amount with the school.
Fees were compiled in October 2026 and change every school year; confirm the amount with the school before applying.
How this fee compares
At CAD 96,010, this fee is CAD 6,360 above the median of CAD 89,650 among 24 CAIS schools with boarding included.
Outcome: a well-rounded graduate profile
- Learning by doing: Students learn to apply knowledge in the field, in projects and while travelling. This helps with project and lab work at university.
- Self-confidence: Leadership and service work give students real experiences to describe in university applications and interviews.
- An age-appropriate environment: Only middle and high school students are on campus, so it is not shared with younger children.
- A predictable budget: Because the scope of the fee is clearly defined, families can plan the year more easily, though a separate budget for personal spending is still needed.
Who it suits and what to consider
- Cost: The 2026-27 international boarding tuition is CAD 96,010. New students also pay a CAD 8,500 registration fee, and boarders pay a CAD 1,500 orientation fee. This is one of the highest fees on our list; the current amount should be confirmed with the school.
- Application timing: Boarding applications are reviewed year-round, but the school says most places fill by mid-January. Applications should be submitted a year in advance, in the fall. IRCC makes the study permit decision, and once the letter of acceptance arrives, the file should be prepared without delay.
- Entry requirements: Applicants submit their report cards from the last two years and a school report, and take an online KIRA Talent interview. Time should be set aside to prepare for the language score. Students under 17 must have a custodian in Canada. Oakville is a calm city close to Toronto.
To discuss how to strengthen an Appleby College application, you can contact Canadian Edu Centre for a free preliminary assessment meeting.