In Canada, our school system is responsible for educating children from Kindergarten (5 years old) through to high school graduation at the completion of Grade 12 (18 years). Our district has three levels of schooling: Elementary school (K- Grade 5), Middle School (Grades 6-8) and High School (Grades 9-12). Canadian school students participate in a varied and comprehensive educational program for ten months of the year (September through June), five days a week (Monday-Friday), for six hours a day, generally from 9am to 3pm.

For samples of typical student timetables click on the links provided below. Detailed information on individual schools within the Qualicum School District on Vancouver Island can also be found at each of their websites.

Grade 8 (PDF File)
Sample Student Timetable »

Grade 11 (PDF File)
Student Timetable »

Graduating from Secondary School in British Columbia, Canada
The Grade 10, 11 and 12 academic program ensures that as an International Student, you meet BC graduation requirements, have the opportunity to experience leadership and global learning and prepare for entrance to university and college. During Grades 10, 11 and 12, you must complete at least 80 credits of course work to satisfy the minimum requirements for graduation. You may be eligible to receive course credits, and external language credits for work completed in your home country or for work completed outside the classroom.

Graduation Requirements »

Report Cards and Grades
One report card will be provided to students and parents. Qualicum School District uses the grading system recommended by the British Columbia Ministry of Education. Your reports will indicate grades in letters and in percentages, accompanied by written comments.

Grades Explained »

Provincial Examinations
Provincial examinations are mandatory for Grade 10 & 12 courses. The examinations are 2 ½ hours in length, and can be written in January, April, June, August, or November.

• Grade 10 - 20% towards a student's final grade; 80% of the final grade comes from schools marks
• Grade 12 - 40% towards a student's final grade; 60% of the final grade comes from schools marks

Short-term Studies
If you are seeking a short-term period of study in Canada contact us directly or to enroll in one of our Summer or other short-term programs, go to the Short-term Programs page of this website.