The Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) offers international students the opportunity to study in a welcoming and diverse school community rooted in faith and values. We offer English as a Second Language (ESL) in all elementary (K-6) and intermediate schools (7-8) and have 5 secondary schools that offer ESL credit courses. We offer unique programs such as Focus Programs, Specialist High Skills Majors [ocsb.ca/shsm], and e-learning courses [ocsb.ca/elearning]. The OCSB takes an innovative approach to incorporating technology into our students’ learning journey. Our Board was selected by the Canadian Education Association as the winning district to be an example for other Canadian school districts on digital transformation within education. Recently one of our Elementary Schools was awarded first place in the National “Classroom of the Future” Challenge based on innovative teaching and learning practices using technology.
Located in Canada’s capital city of Ottawa, the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) offers international students an exceptional education experience focused on academic excellence, student well-being, and preparation for future success.
Why choose the OCSB?
Beyond the classroom, students enjoy diverse extracurricular opportunities, dedicated international student events and activities, a trusted homestay program through MLI Homestay, and an innovative Deep Learning approach that develops the skills needed for success: Character, Citizenship, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, and Critical Thinking.
Program Established: 2007
Programs Offered: Full Year, 1 Semester
Specialized Programs: French Immersion, Specialist High Skills Major, Cooperative Education
Language(s) of Study: English
Total number of schools: 94
High schools for international students (ESL): 15 (8 ESL)
Total Students: 55,146
Total International Students: 245
International Students Accepted for Grades: K-12
Nearest Airport: Ottawa MacDonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)
Ottawa is a safe, welcoming, and vibrant city that offers the perfect balance of urban living and natural beauty. As Canada’s capital, Ottawa is home to world-class museums, festivals, professional sports, and cultural attractions, while also providing easy access to parks, trails, and outdoor recreation. With a diverse, multicultural population and a high quality of life, Ottawa is an ideal destination for international students.
Why students love Ottawa
The Ottawa Catholic School Board has partnered with MLI Homestay to accommodate international students. MLI Homestay believes that international homestay experiences allow participants to emerge more knowledgeable and understanding about life abroad, and more confident of their own abilities and achievements. Participants will have an experience that will be one of the most valuable in their lives and return home with memories that last a lifetime.
MLI Homestay has placed thousands of students with caring host families across Canada. We love working with international visitors and host families to create an unforgettable experience.
All of our schools have a variety of extracurricular activities including sports teams, clubs and arts themed activities. To learn more about each school’s unique features visit http://ocsb.ca/schools/tools/school-directory-home/search-by-list and access each school’s individual website.
Entrance Dates: September & February for 9-12. September for K-8 (sometimes flexible).
Application Deadlines: At least three months prior to the start date
Application Fee: $400
Full Year Tuition Fee: $15,000 (K-12)
1 Semester Tuition Fee: $7,500 (K-12)
Annual Health Insurance Fee: $600
Annual Homestay Placement/Accommodation/Custodianship Fee: please confirm directly with MLI Homestay
All funds are in Canadian dollars
Prices are subject to change, please confirm fees during the application process.
All funds are in Canadian dollars
General Inquiries Email: discover@ocsb.ca
Website: international.ocsb.ca
Mailing Address: 570 West Hunt Club Road
City: Ottawa
Province: ON
Postal Code: K2G 3R4
Phone: 613-691-8805
Fax: 613-224-5063
Please complete the form below to request more information
