The TDSB welcomes students from all over the world. International students coming to study at the TDSB can choose an educational path that best suits their personal interests and academic goals.

Attending school in Toronto is a rewarding experience. Toronto is a beautiful, clean and safe city. International students will learn about other diverse cultures, gain new perspectives and meet new friends while getting a first rate education.

Our teachers and counsellors understand the needs of our international students and know that they often require help adjusting to life in a new country. Our staff speak a variety of languages and they are always willing to offer friendly guidance on academic and personal issues.

Children living in Toronto with parents or relatives may attend one of our 470 plus elementary schools.

School placement is based on the residential address of parent/custodian. Proof of address includes lease agreement, property tax assessment documents, utility bills, bank statement or telephone bills.

All students at Grade 8 or under must live with their parents, blood relatives or custodians.

Admission Requirements

1. An average of C+ (65%) or higher in the past two years of school
2. Letter of recommendation from a teacher or principal
3. English ability: Although there is no English-speaking requirement for elementary students, we recommend that students have some knowledge of English that includes reading, writing, listening and speaking skills

Click here for more information on how to apply.

Secondary students can attend high school while preparing for post-secondary attendance at either a Canadian college or university. Two academic streams are available. More information can be obtained by contacting the guidance department of each TDSB school designated for international students.

The TDSB secondary schools offer comprehensive support to international students and a full range of academic, language and elective courses., AP courses, extra curriculum activities, clubs, and sport teams. All schools offer a wide range of art programs including music, drama, fine arts and visual arts.

A selection of secondary schools has been selected for hosting international students (Please refer to Appendix A for school profiles). These schools are located throughout the City of Toronto in a variety of communities. The spaces available at the designated secondary schools are regularly updated on our website (www.studytoronto.ca). Please check the website often in order to have the most up-to-date information. Placements will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Every attempt is made to place incoming international students in their school of choice; however, this may not always be possible.

International students applying to TDSB secondary schools are only eligible to regular-track programs.

Admissions Requirements

1. An average of C+ (65%) or higher in the past two years of school
2. Letter of recommendation form a teacher or principal
3. English ability: Intermediate or higher level of English Language Proficiency

Click here for more information on how to apply.

The TDSB short-term Cultural Immersion Program is specifically tailored for international school groups (10 students or more) of Grade 7 to Grade 11 students. The Program is run during regular school semesters (except for Christmas holiday sand March Break) and is 2-8 weeks in duration. For individual students, the minimum length of stay at TDSB schools is 3 months.

The Program offers visiting students:

• Customized program
• Authentic immersion experience in TDSB schools
• Learning with local Canadian students
• Same curricular as local students
• Local buddies for very visiting students
• Experience with local hosting families
• Reasonable cost

Please note that a chaperone teacher is required for every 10-15 students. For more information, please contact Mr. Fred Liu at: Fred.Liu@tdsb.on.ca.