I want my son to study in Canada - News - Jamaica Gleaner - Tuesday | March 4, 2014

I want my son to study in Canada - News - Jamaica Gleaner - Tuesday | March 4, 2014

Dear Ms Powell,

I am a frequent reader of your articles and notice that you have not mentioned anything about high schools. I have a 15-year-old son and my husband and I would like to him to study in Canada because of the harassment he is getting here. Is it possible to apply for a study permit for a Canadian high school? What would be the cost? Looking forward to hearing from you.

- MS

Dear MS,

Canada has an excellent education system. This includes both public and private high schools. I have noticed that parents are now more willing to allow their children to complete high school in Canada and then go on to university. One of the most common reasons for choosing to study in Canada from an early age is that these schools offer students more flexibility and an opportunity to 'specialise' in their particular areas of interest, while preparing for post- secondary education and future careers in Canada.

The Canadian public and private- school system is open to international students. Many public secondary schools in Canada actively recruit international students from all over the globe. Public schools offer the advantage of studying alongside a wide cross section of people from various backgrounds, beliefs and cultures.

You should note that 92 per cent of Canadian youth are enrolled in the public-school system, which is a credit to the public-educational system.

There is also the option of enrolling in private high schools. There is a number of private schools throughout Canada which offer both general and specialised curriculums.

The main language of instruction in schools is English throughout Canada, except in Quebec where the main language is French. You also have the option of choosing a French-immersion high school.

Public international secondary schools are one of the most economical options for international students. Tuition for international students is usually considerably lower than at private institutions. The tuition fees for public schools range from approximately CAD$9,000-$14,000 for an eight-month study period. Tuition fees for private high schools range from approximately CAD$20,000-$30,000 for the same period.

You should consider the safety and security of your children and, therefore, you should think about an additional cost for boarding within the community, on the school campus or living with relatives and friends. Boarding at a private high school could cost you approximately CAD$5,000-$10,000 per month.

HOMESTAY ARRANGEMENTS

Some schools have facilitated or made arrangements for homestay with Canadian families as this allows students to have a well-rounded experience in a safe environment. Homestay families provide children with a safe and caring home environment where they have the opportunity to learn about Canadian lifestyle and culture while studying. The cost of homestay usually starts at approximately CAD$825 per month, and includes three meals per day.

You may also appoint a guardian or custodian to act as official contact for school matters. The guardian or custodian would be responsible for the proper care and supervision of your child as appropriate. Custodians must be citizens or permanent residents of Canada.

Once you have decided the location and the type of school where you would like your child to study, you should submit a formal application to the school. You will need to submit your child's transcripts or report cards along with the requisite fees. Most schools will accept your application online or via emails. You should follow the particular school application procedure and submit the required documents.

When you have an acceptance letter, you may then apply to the Canadian visa application section in Jamaica for a study permit.

If you would like additional information, guidance with your application or other information about schools in Canada, you may consult with an immigration lawyer to assist you.

Deidre S. Powell is a lawyer, mediator and notary public who is a member of the Jamaican and Ontario, Canada bars, with office located in Ottawa, Ontario. Her areas of speciality are immigration, commercial, real estate, personal injury, family, and administration of estates. She is on the roster of mediators for Ottawa, Toronto, and the Dispute Resolution Foundation of Jamaica. Email: info@deidrepowell.com. Subject line: Immigration Twitter: deidrespowell Facebook: jamaicanlawyer Tel: 613.695.8777