Why Golden Hills School Division?
Parents who prefer a public school but are undecided about accommodation usually turn to private boarding schools. Golden Hills is one of the few divisions that resolves this dilemma, because it offers a dormitory option at public school fees. It also offers different program types, such as the Global Leader Program, the Plus Program and the online Flex program, giving families the chance to choose a pathway that matches their child's goals.
- Families looking for a choice of accommodation: those who want to decide for themselves whether their child stays in a dormitory or with a Canadian family.
- Those who want a calm setting close to a big city: those considering education in a small community that is close to Calgary.
- Those looking for a program based on an interest: students who expect a structured academy in sports, music or robotics.
Reasons: the concrete features that make Golden Hills stand out
- Dormitory option: the division operates dormitories in Strathmore, Drumheller and Three Hills, so a student can board while attending a public school. Rooms are mostly shared by two students, and three meals a day are provided.
- Homestay accommodation: a private room, full board and laundry service are provided, so daily English practice continues at home.
- Close to Calgary: Strathmore is 25 minutes east of Calgary, so Calgary International Airport is easy to reach.
- Scale and experience: 7 of the division's 22 schools are high schools that accept international students. The program has been running since 2004 and serves about 280 international students.
- Academies: there are a Soccer Academy, a Baseball Academy, a Fastball Academy, Hockey and a Music Academy. Students can develop their talents within the school timetable.
- ESL support: ESL classes are delivered according to the Alberta Benchmarks. Language level is monitored regularly, and the move into regular classes is made step by step.
- Flexible program lengths: there are full-year, single-semester and short-term options, so families can try the program before making a long-term decision.
Cost analysis: what one school year costs
| Item | CAD | As published on CAPS-I |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition, one school year | 13,390 | $13,390 (2026-2027 school year) |
| Application fee | 260 | $260 |
| Health insurance | 800 | $800 |
| Homestay, 10 months at CAD 1,345 | 13,450 | Homestay Monthly Fee: $1,345; Dormitory Fee: $1,659; Annual Custodianship Fee: not applicable |
| Custodianship fee | 0 / included | |
| Estimated first-year total | 27,900 | Tuition, the listed fees, insurance and homestay for one school year. |
Tuition alone works out to about CAD 1,339 per school month over a 10-month year. With homestay and the listed fees, the year comes to about CAD 2,790 per month. Flights, pocket money, the study permit fee and biometrics are not included.
The tuition figure comes from the district's CAPS-I page. We could not confirm it, or the school year it applies to, on the district's own website on 11 October 2026; we request the current fee schedule for you before you apply.
The other items are taken from the district's CAPS-I member page, read on 11 October 2026. Items shown as "see text" could not be read as a single amount and are left out of the total.
How this fee compares
At CAD 13,390, this fee is CAD 1,290 above the median of CAD 12,100 among 17 public school districts in Alberta.
Outcome: what it means for the student and family
- Peace of mind for the family: because the type of accommodation can be chosen to suit the child's character, the adjustment process is more controlled.
- Predictable budget: annual tuition is CAD 13,390, annual health insurance is CAD 800 and the student services fee is CAD 1,275, so the total cost can be calculated from the start.
- All-round development: Robotics, Fine Arts and Career and Technology Studies courses help build a strong record of interests alongside academic grades.
- Ease of travel: being close to the airport saves time on holiday trips and family visits.
Who it suits and what to consider
- Suitable profile: students who want to study in a safe, small community rather than a crowded metropolis and can adapt to dormitory routines. A Study Permit is required for study longer than six months. IRCC makes the decision, so preparation for the September and February intakes should begin early.
- Cost: the dormitory is CAD 1,659 per month and homestay is CAD 1,345 per month. The application fee is CAD 260. The current fees should be confirmed with the school before applying.
- Location: Strathmore has a population of about 15,000, and Drumheller is 1 hour 25 minutes from Calgary. Students who expect big-city bustle should be aware of this.
Would a dormitory or a homestay be the better fit for your child? Schedule a free preliminary consultation with Canadian Edu Centre so that we can clarify the Golden Hills options and the Study Permit process together.