Why Great Lakes College of Toronto?
Families whose child's English is not yet at an academic level, but who are aiming for university in Canada, often ask whether high school credits can progress while the language gap closes. The school is designed for this need.
- Language and high school together: Students who want to improve their English without losing a grade level consider this school.
- Flexible calendar: Families who do not want to wait for September can look at the intake periods during the year.
- Big-city choice: It suits parents looking for a school in Toronto with easy access to public transit.
Reasons: features that set Great Lakes College apart
The following features come from the school's official website and show how a student who needs language support can complete high school in Toronto.
- Five-level ESL: The school runs a five-stage ESL program aligned with the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. Students start at their own level and move step by step into academic courses.
- Five intake periods a year: There are five starting points during the school year, so a student whose visa process runs long can move to the next intake without losing the whole year.
- Grades 9–12 and university preparation: Alongside the high school grades, the school offers a University Preparation Program, so students nearing their final year can focus on university applications.
- Two accommodation options: Homestay and on-campus residence are both offered, so families can choose according to the child's age and level of independence.
- Central location: The school is in North High Park, within walking distance of the subway, a library and shopping areas, which keeps daily commuting simple.
- Established international experience: The institution has run language training and summer programs since 1994 and is familiar with the adjustment process for students arriving from abroad.
Cost analysis: what one school year costs
| Item | CAD | When |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition, Grades 9 to 11 | 23,000 | listed with the annual fees |
| Residence | 9,600 | listed with the annual fees |
| Meal plan | 7,200 | listed with the annual fees |
| Application fee | 200 | one-time |
| Headline annual fee with boarding | 39,800 | 2026-27 |
| One-time fees in the first year | 200 | added to the first year only |
The headline fee works out to about CAD 3,980 per school month over a 10-month year, accommodation and meals included. Flights, pocket money, the study permit fee and biometrics are not included.
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 39,800, this fee is CAD 12,550 below the median of CAD 52,350 among 12 private schools with boarding included.
Outcome: what it means for the student and family
Taken together, these features give families the following picture:
- Less lost time: Language preparation and the high school program run under one roof, so students do not need a separate period at a language school.
- Easier planning: Multiple start dates allow the application to be timed to the visa schedule, or moved to the next intake if needed.
- Clearer university path: The school aims to help students identify suitable university or college programs and secure admission.
- Organized daily life: Accommodation and transport are arranged around the school, so students can focus their energy on their studies.
Who it suits and what to consider
- Who it suits: Students who need English support, want to live in Toronto, and prioritize preparing for university.
- Fee information: The school's 2026-27 fee schedule lists international tuition of CAD 23,000 for Grades 9 to 11 and CAD 17,000 for Grade 12, residence at CAD 9,600 and a meal plan at CAD 7,200 for the year. For Grades 9 to 11, tuition, residence and meals come to CAD 39,800; with the school's other mandatory fees, the published one-year total is CAD 43,300. Confirm the amounts in writing with the school before applying.
- Official process: A study permit is required for programs longer than six months and is issued by IRCC. Students under 17 must have a custodian designated in Canada.
Practical notes
The Canadian school year runs from September to June. The school should be asked in advance which courses are offered at mid-year intakes. For a return to the student's home country, recognition is handled by that country's education authority, and keeping report cards and transcripts organized makes this easier.
Let us assess together whether Great Lakes College of Toronto matches your child's language level and goals. Contact Canadian Edu Centre for a free preliminary assessment meeting.