guide
Finding the right private school for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. Toronto is home to more than 80 private schools — the largest concentration in Canada — with an average annual tuition of $23,331 CAD. Whether your child thrives in IB environments, loves creative pursuits, or needs specialized learning support, there's a school in Toronto designed to help them flourish.
This guide walks you through Toronto's top private schools, organized by specialty, so you can narrow down your options and find the best fit for your family.
Below, you'll find schools organized by their signature strengths. Each school description includes key details to help you evaluate fit. We recommend:
The International Baccalaureate program is known for its rigorous, globally focused curriculum. Toronto has several outstanding IB schools:
One of Canada's most prestigious independent schools, UCC offers the full IB program from SK through Grade 12. Known for academic excellence, strong athletic programs, and a vibrant arts culture.
Grades: SK–12 | Gender: All-Boys | Tuition: $40,750/year | Student-Teacher Ratio: 9:1
A co-ed IB World School offering the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP) from JK through Grade 12. Small class sizes and a progressive, inquiry-driven approach.
Grades: JK–12 | Gender: Co-ed | Tuition: $45,065/year
An all-girls IB World School with a progressive approach, offering the full IB continuum. Known for developing confident, globally minded young women.
Grades: JK–12 | Gender: All-Girls | Tuition: $45,140/year
An all-girls school offering both traditional and IB curricula. One of the few Toronto schools with boarding availability.
Grades: JK–12 | Gender: All-Girls | Tuition: $43,600/year | Boarding Available
These schools combine rigorous academics with strong AP programs and exceptional university placement track records:
An all-boys school offering AP courses alongside the Ontario curriculum. Renowned for character development, intellectual curiosity, and leadership programming.
Grades: 3–12 | Gender: All-Boys | Tuition: $39,590/year | Student-Teacher Ratio: 9:1
A co-ed school with both traditional and progressive curricula. Known for its small community feel and strong academic outcomes.
Grades: 7–12 | Gender: Co-ed | Tuition: $47,170/year | Student-Teacher Ratio: 7:1
An all-boys school offering AP and traditional programming. Strong emphasis on community, faith, and rigorous academics.
Grades: 3–12 | Gender: All-Boys | Tuition: $35,320/year
An all-girls school with traditional and AP curricula. Known for nurturing confident, academically ambitious young women.
Grades: 1–12 | Gender: All-Girls | Tuition: $34,500/year
If your child is a creative spirit or thrives in inquiry-based learning environments, these schools prioritize the arts and progressive pedagogy:
An all-girls school with a progressive curriculum that integrates arts, technology, and social justice. Strong drama, visual arts, and music programs.
Grades: JK–12 | Gender: All-Girls | Tuition: $39,800/year
An all-girls school with a unique progressive approach emphasizing social justice, creativity, and inquiry-based learning.
Grades: JK–12 | Gender: All-Girls | Tuition: $29,646/year
A progressive co-ed elementary school focused on inquiry, collaboration, and the arts. Ideal for families seeking an alternative to traditional schooling in the early years.
Grades: JK–6 | Gender: Co-ed | Tuition: $37,400/year
A progressive co-ed school known for its inclusive, community-focused approach and strong arts programming.
Grades: JK–8 | Gender: Co-ed | Tuition: $36,600/year
If your child has learning differences or benefits from specialized support, these Toronto schools excel in differentiated instruction and inclusive environments:
A pioneer in cognitive strengthening programs, Arrowsmith uses a neuroscience-based approach to address specific learning difficulties. Designed for students who learn differently.
Grades: 1–12 | Gender: Co-ed | Tuition: $30,000/year
Specializes in supporting students with autism spectrum differences and related needs. Small class sizes with highly individualized programming.
Grades: K–10 | Gender: Co-ed | Tuition: $35,000/year | Student-Teacher Ratio: 1:8
Designed for students with learning disabilities, ADHD, and anxiety who need a supportive, structured environment to reach their academic potential.
Grades: 6–12 | Gender: Co-ed | Tuition: $30,992/year
Supports students with learning differences through a personalized, strength-based approach with very small class sizes.
Grades: JK–12 | Gender: Co-ed | Tuition: $27,750/year | Student-Teacher Ratio: 1:4–6
Our AI consultant can help you narrow down options based on your child's unique profile. Answer a few questions and get matched with schools that truly fit your family.
Tuition varies significantly depending on school type and philosophy. Here is how Toronto's top private schools compare:
| School | Grades | Gender | Tuition | Curriculum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenwood College School | 7–12 | Co-ed | $47,170 | Traditional/Progressive |
| Branksome Hall | JK–12 | All-Girls | $45,140 | IB |
| The York School | JK–12 | Co-ed | $45,065 | IB |
| Havergal College | JK–12 | All-Girls | $43,600 | IB/Traditional |
| Upper Canada College | SK–12 | All-Boys | $40,750 | IB |
| The Bishop Strachan School | JK–12 | All-Girls | $39,800 | Progressive |
| Crescent School | 3–12 | All-Boys | $39,590 | AP |
| Sterling Hall School | JK–8 | All-Boys | $39,500 | Traditional |
| Mabin School | JK–6 | Co-ed | $37,400 | Progressive |
| Montcrest School | JK–8 | Co-ed | $36,600 | Progressive |
| Royal St. George's College | 3–12 | All-Boys | $35,320 | AP |
| Monarch Academy | K–10 | Co-ed | $35,000 | Progressive |
| St. Clement's School | 1–12 | All-Girls | $34,500 | AP |
"The average private school tuition in Toronto is $22,177 CAD — the highest in Canada — but families can find quality options across a wide range from $385 to $47,170 per year."
With 95 private schools in the city — nearly a quarter of Canada's total — Toronto parents have more choice than anywhere else in the country. About 24% of Toronto's private schools offer the IB curriculum, and 7 offer boarding options.
Does the school's teaching approach align with how your child learns best? Toronto private schools range from highly structured traditional programs to fully progressive, inquiry-based environments. Visit classrooms, not just campuses.
Does the school feel like a place where your child would thrive? Ask to speak with current parents and students. Observe how students interact and engage during your visit.
Most Toronto private schools have application deadlines between November and January for the following September. Competitive schools like UCC, Crescent, and Havergal may require entrance assessments and interviews. Start early.
Toronto private school tuition ranges from approximately $15,000 to $47,000 per year. About 42% of Canadian private schools offer financial aid. Ask about bursaries, scholarships, and payment plans during your inquiry.
Consider travel time and whether the commute is sustainable for your family's daily routine. Many Toronto private schools are concentrated in midtown and north Toronto.
Use our school directory to browse all schools, compare programs, and create your shortlist. Our AI consultant is here to guide you through the process.
Ready to take the next step?
Talk to our AI consultant — personalized school recommendations in minutes.
Get our free school guide
Tips on tuition, admissions timelines, and what to ask on school tours. No spam.
Confused about whether a single-sex or co-ed private school is right for your child? This guide breaks down the real differences, outcomes, and what Canadian parents should know before making this big decision.
NextSchool's 2026 report analyzes tuition at 432 private schools across Canada, revealing an average annual cost of $23,602 CAD and wide disparities between provinces, cities, and school types. This flagship publication provides essential statistics, trends, and comparisons for journalists, research
Trying to decide between the International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement programs for your child? This in-depth Canadian guide breaks down costs, university recognition, workload, and availability so you can make a confident, informed choice.
