- Download our Moving to Montreal Guide (PDF)
Given that education in Quebec is primarily in French, many expats choose to send their children to an English-medium private school or an international school in Montreal.
While a significant number of the public schools in the city offer bilingual education, French is usually taught as the first language, which can be challenging for older children who don’t speak the language.
Parents should note that competition for placements in Montreal’s international schools is quite stiff, especially in the lower grades, so expats should apply well in advance as their children may find themselves on a long waiting list.
Read more: Education and Schools in Montreal
Private and international schools in Montreal
Beurling Academy
Beurling Academy, located in Montreal's Verdun borough, offers a comprehensive English-language education for students aged 12 to 17, featuring the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. The school provides a diverse curriculum, including arts and sports, and fosters a multicultural environment that reflects the city's rich heritage.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec) and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 12 to 17
Website: beurling.lbpsb.qc.ca
Centennial Academy
Centennial Academy is a co-educational private high school in Montreal, Canada, offering both English and French instruction. The school specialises in supporting students with learning challenges, providing a structured, inclusive environment fostering autonomy and resilience.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec)
Ages: 12 to 17
Website: www.centennial.qc.ca
Kells Academy
Established in 1978, Kells Academy is a private English-language co-educational institution in Montreal, Quebec, offering programmes from kindergarten through Grade 12. The school emphasises small class sizes, personalised learning approaches, and a diverse international student body, providing a supportive environment for expat families.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec)
Ages: 5 to 17
Website: www.kells.ca
Kuper Academy
Kuper Academy, located in Kirkland, Quebec, is a private, non-subsidised, coeducational institution offering a bilingual curriculum from preschool through high school. It accepts students without a certificate of eligibility, making it an accessible choice for expat families seeking quality education in the Montreal area.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec)
Ages: 3 to 17
Website: www.kuperacademy.ca
Lower Canada College
Lower Canada College (LCC) is a distinguished co-educational, English-language day school in Montreal, offering a comprehensive curriculum from kindergarten to Pre-University, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years and Diploma Programmes. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, global education, and a supportive community, LCC provides an enriching environment for expatriate families seeking quality education in Canada.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec) and International Baccalaureate (IB)
Ages: 5 to 18
Website: www.lcc.ca
St George’s School
Established in 1930, St. George's School of Montreal offers a progressive, co-educational environment for students from kindergarten to Grade 11. The school emphasises experiential learning and provides a bilingual elementary programme, making it an excellent choice for expatriate families seeking a holistic education in Montreal.
Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec)
Ages: 5 to 17
Website: www.stgeorges.qc.ca
What do expats say about Montreal's education offering?
"Canada has an excellent education system and parents will have a wide variety of options when it comes their kids' schooling. No matter which option you choose, kids will get a good education. Our children go to our local public school and we are quite happy with it."
Read more in South African Catherine's expat interview about Canada.
Further reading
►If you're planning on settling down in the city, check out our Moving to Montreal page
►Working in Montreal provides an overview of the professional environment and tips on finding a job
Are you an expat living in Montreal?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Montreal. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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