Welcome to the Hastings Prince Edward District School Board International Student Program!
The Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board (HPEDSB) is proud to be celebrating our 25th year of welcoming students from around the globe to participate in our International Student Program! Our core purpose is to provide an exceptional cultural and educational experience for our international students in a highly supportive environment. We offer a world-class education system with highly trained teachers and outstanding learning facilities, as well as a full range of programs and activities to meet the interest of every student. Our in-house Homestay Program provides the best possible match for students and homestays with regular monitoring, ensuring a comfortable and enriching stay.
Canada Leads North America in Education!
Did you know that Canada is the top-ranking country in North America according to the latest PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) results? Canadian students consistently perform well above the OECD average in mathematics, reading, and science, making us the only North American nation to land in the global top 10 for math! It’s a testament to the hard work of our students, educators, and communities.
Secondary School Program Details
The Hastings Prince Edward District School Board (HPEDSB) welcomes international high school students into our secondary school program, spanning Grade 9 (age 14) to Grade 12 (age 18). We offer a variety of study options to fit your academic goals, including:
- Single semesters (five months)
- Full academic years (September to June)
- Multi-year enrollment for students planning to graduate and pursue post-secondary education in Canada
- Shorter-term options
International students typically attend one of our three main high schools, each with approximately 800 students: Bayside Secondary School, Centennial Secondary School, and Eastside Secondary School. For those seeking a smaller, more rural learning environment, Prince Edward Collegiate Institute (PECI) is also available. All students engage in a full academic schedule of four 75-minute classes daily.
Building English Proficiency
If English is not your first language, our comprehensive English as a Second Language (ESL) program is designed to help you succeed. Offered at Bayside, Centennial, and Eastside, our ESL program has five distinct levels to support your language development.
Advanced Academic Programs
High-achieving international students with strong English proficiency may be eligible for our prestigious Advanced Placement (AP) program at Bayside Secondary School or the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Eastside Secondary School. We welcome inquiries about these rigorous academic opportunities.
Program Established: 2000 – Celebrating 25 yrs in 2025!
Language(s) of Study: English, French
Total number of schools: 39
High schools for international students: 4
Total International Students: 80
Total Students: 15,000
International Students Accepted for Grades: 9-12
Nearest Airport: Pearson International Airport (Toronto)
HPE International Student Program offers:
- Full year or semester options with ESL instruction in the fall semester. Each school has a dedicated Guidance Counselor to provide daily support, answer questions/concerns.
- Program Coordinator meets with each student weekly at their school.
- A wide selection of course options including: International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, French Immersion and Spanish classes.
- A wide variety of technology courses such as: carpentry, automotive, manufacturing, communications, computer programming and more! Our technology shops & science labs are incredible!
- A large variety of sports, clubs and activities within the schools as well as monthly planned cultural and social activities and events/trips.
Discover the Bay of Quinte: Your Ideal Home for International Study
Nestled on the picturesque northern shore of Lake Ontario, the Bay of Quinte region offers international students an exceptional blend of natural beauty, vibrant community life, and convenient access to Canada’s major cities.
Strategic Location: The Bay of Quinte boasts an enviable location within Southern Ontario, making it an excellent base for exploring the best of Canada. We are approximately:
- 2 hours east of Toronto, Canada’s largest city and economic hub,also most diverse city in Canada
- 2.5 hours southwest of Ottawa, the nation’s capital, rich in history and culture.
- 3.5 hours west of Montreal, a vibrant, bilingual city known for its European charm.
This prime position allows for easy weekend trips and cultural excursions, whether by car or via convenient VIA Rail train services.
What the Bay of Quinte Offers International Students:
Beyond its strategic location, the Bay of Quinte region provides a highly supportive and enriching environment for international students:
- A Safe and Welcoming Community: Comprising diverse municipalities like Belleville (the largest city in the region), Quinte West, Brighton, and the renowned Prince Edward County, the Bay of Quinte offers a friendly and secure atmosphere where newcomers quickly feel at home. Our in-house Homestay Program plays a vital role in providing a warm, family-like environment with regular monitoring for your well-being.
- Exceptional Educational Opportunities:
- The region also hosts Loyalist College, a leading post-secondary institution offering numerous career-focused programs.
- It is 45 minutes away from Queen’s University, and 2 hours away from University of Toronto
- Abundant Outdoor Adventures: The natural landscape of the Bay of Quinte is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Students can enjoy:
- Stunning Provincial Parks: Explore the world-famous Sandbanks Provincial Park with its vast sandy beaches and dunes, or North Beach in Consecon, Wellington Beach or Cobourg Beach. Discover the natural beauty of Algonquin Provincial Park or Presqu’ile Provincial Park in the area.
- Lakes and Waterways: The Bay itself is perfect for boating, fishing (especially for walleye!), and enjoying scenic waterfront trails. The region is also a gateway to the Trent-Severn Waterway.
- Trails and Conservation Areas: Hike, bike, or snowshoe through numerous conservation areas like Vanderwater Conservation Area or Batawa Trails, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to connect with nature year-round.
- Winter Sports: Embrace the Canadian winter with skiing and snowboarding at Batawa Ski Hill, ice skating on the frozen bay, or tobogganing.
- Rich Culture and Community Events: The Bay of Quinte region is alive with cultural activities and community events throughout the year. Students can immerse themselves in:
- Local Festivals: Experience various community festivals, farmers’ markets, and seasonal celebrations.
- Arts and Heritage: Visit the National Air Force Museum of Canada, explore historic sites like Glanmore National Historic Site, or enjoy live performances at The Empire Theatre. The local arts council also keeps a vibrant calendar of events, workshops, and exhibitions.
- Prince Edward County Exploration: Just a short drive away, Prince Edward County offers a unique experience with its renowned wineries, craft breweries, art studios, and charming towns.
Choosing the Bay of Quinte means embracing a well-rounded international student experience, combining rigorous academics with rich cultural immersion and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, all within a welcoming and supportive community.
In-house Homestay Program: Your Home Away From Home
At the Hastings Prince Edward District School Board (HPEDSB), we know that a comfortable and supportive living environment is key to a successful international student experience. That’s why we’re proud to offer our comprehensive in-house Homestay Program, designed to make you feel like part of a family.
Our program ensures:
- Welcoming English-Speaking Homes: You’ll be placed with carefully selected, first-language English-speaking families who are eager to share their culture and help you practice your English skills daily.
- Dedicated Support: Your homestay experience is closely monitored and supported by our experienced Homestay Coordinator, who provides ongoing assistance and ensures a smooth transition into your new home.
- Comfortable Living Spaces: Each student receives a furnished single bedroom equipped with a dedicated study space, a window, and all the comfortable amenities you need.
- All-Inclusive Meals & Family Integration: Enjoy all your meals included, and we encourage you to join in meal preparation and be an active part of family dinners and activities. This is a fantastic way to bond with your host family and experience Canadian family life firsthand.
- Peace of Mind & Safety: Your well-being is our top priority. The program includes healthcare insurance and custodianship, and you’ll have access to an emergency line 24/7 if ever required.
Our in-house Homestay Program goes beyond just providing a place to stay; it offers a genuine family experience, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for your entire time with HPEDSB.
Beyond exceptional academics and a welcoming community, the Hastings Prince Edward District School Board (HPEDSB) is committed to providing international students with an unforgettable Canadian experience through a vibrant calendar of exciting activities and immersive cultural excursions. We believe that learning extends beyond the classroom, and our carefully curated trips offer unique opportunities to explore Canada’s iconic landmarks, experience its rich culture, and create lasting memories.
Our diverse program of activities includes:
Iconic Canadian Adventures:
- Niagara Falls Overnight Trip: Witness the breathtaking power and beauty of one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. This overnight excursion allows ample time to experience the falls from various vantage points and explore the charming surrounding area.
- Toronto City Exploration: Journey to Canada’s largest city for a dynamic day of discovery. Ascend the towering CN Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline and Lake Ontario, then dive into the mesmerizing underwater world at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, home to thousands of aquatic creatures.
- Montreal Overnight Trip (including Cirque du Soleil): Immerse yourself in the vibrant, bilingual culture of Montreal, a city known for its European charm and artistic flair. This overnight adventure often includes the incredible spectacle of Cirque du Soleil, a world-renowned circus performance that blends acrobatics, artistry, and stunning visuals.
- Ottawa Trip: Explore Canada’s elegant capital city, rich in history and national landmarks. Discover Parliament Hill, visit national museums, and experience the unique atmosphere of this important Canadian city.
- Canada’s Wonderland: Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling day at Canada’s premier amusement park, featuring world-class roller coasters, exciting rides, and live entertainment.
Experience Canadian Sports & Recreation:
- Belleville Senators Hockey Game: Cheer on our local American Hockey League (AHL) team, the Belleville Senators, a farm team for the NHL’s Ottawa Senators. Experience the fast-paced action and electrifying atmosphere of a live hockey game – a true Canadian passion!
- Raptors 905 Basketball Game: Catch a game with the Raptors 905, the G-League affiliate of the NBA’s Toronto Raptors. This is a fantastic opportunity to see future NBA stars in action and enjoy a professional basketball experience.
- Skiing at Brimacombe: Embrace the Canadian winter with an exciting day of skiing or snowboarding at Brimacombe, one of Southern Ontario’s largest and most popular ski resorts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the snowy season.
These activities are designed not only for enjoyment but also to provide valuable opportunities for cultural immersion, English language practice, and building friendships with fellow international students and local peers. We are continuously adding new experiences and welcome student input to help us plan more activities and events that align with their interests, ensuring a truly personalized and enriching stay in Canada!
Entrance Dates: September & February
Application Deadlines: Nov 30th and May 30th
Administration Fee: $500
Full Year Tuition Fee: $14,500 program fee (all costs included in program fee except for homestay & airport pick up & drop off)
1 Semester Tuition Fee: $8,000
Program Fee: $1,250 (includes custodianship & emergency services, medical and health insurance, academic and homestay monitoring, orientation program, some cultural and social events, ESL instruction & ELL support)
Annual Homestay Placement Fee: $500 (one time)
Homestay Monthly Fee: $1,100/month
Airport Pick up and Drop off: $575
Validation (per document): $150
*Plus $200/month for any special dietary requirements.
Program Fee: Custodianship and emergency services, medical and health insurance, academic and homestay monitoring, orientation session, some cultural and social events.
ISP Activities & Trips: Monthly program activities and trips are optional and not included in the above fees.
4-month placements are available. Please contact the HPE ISP office for details. isp@hpedsb.on.ca
All funds are in Canadian dollars
Prices are subject to change; please confirm fees during the application process.
General Inquiries Email: isp@hpedsb.on.ca
Website: HPE – ISP Website
Mailing Address: 156 Ann Street
City: Belleville
Province: Ontario
Postal Code: K8N 3L3
Phone: 613-966-1170 ext. 62415
Fax: 613-966-1363
