Compare International Schools in Merrickville, Canada

Fulford Academy

Instructs in English

Ages 11 - 17 years

Fees CA$19,750 - 63,750

Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)

Fulford Academy is a private, coeducational day and boarding school located at 118 Main Street East in Merrickville, Ontario. The school offers the Canadian curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) and a Bespoke Curriculum, and runs Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) programs for Grades 9–12. An ESL Foundation Program supports English language development, and a University Qualification Year provides a pathway to higher education. The two-semester system begins in September and February, with small class sizes of about 10-14 students. The campus sits in a renovated former inn and conference centre, creating an intimate learning environment. Facilities include classrooms, a residence with ensuite rooms, lounges, a game room, a piano, a sports and weight room, and outdoor fields including a basketball court. Supervised study halls and IELTS/OSSLT preparation are integrated into timetable. The school emphasizes practical, project-based learning, weekend excursions, and camps that broaden awareness and practical skills for international students.

Location

The school is located at 118 Main Street East, Merrickville, Ontario K0G 1N0, Canada. Merrickville is a picturesque town in eastern Ontario. It is part of the Rideau Canal Corridor UNESCO World Heritage site. Ottawa is about one hour north of Fulford Academy.

Stages

Grade 9–12 Program follows the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) curriculum. ESL Foundation Program, University Qualification Year (UQY), and Spring Term Program support international students.

Type

Private coeducational day and boarding school.

Pupil Nationality Mix

From over 20 countries represented (international students).

Additional learning support

English as a Second Language (ESL) program.

Country affiliation

Canada

Application fee
- A non‑refundable application fee of CAD 350 is payable with the application.

Tuition fees by program and year group (amounts in CAD)
- Grade 9–12 Program (annual):
- Day student (Canadian): CAD 19,750 per year. Per semester (two‑semester system): CAD 9,875 per semester.
- Boarding student (Canadian): CAD 57,750 per year. Per semester: CAD 28,875 per semester.
- Boarding student (International): CAD 63,750 per year. Per semester: CAD 31,875 per semester.

- ESL Foundation Program (annual):
- Day student (Canadian): CAD 19,750 per year. Per semester: CAD 9,875.
- Boarding student (Canadian): CAD 57,750 per year. Per semester: CAD 28,875.
- Boarding student (International): CAD 63,750 per year. Per semester: CAD 31,875.

- University Qualification Year (annual):
- Day student (Canadian): CAD 19,750 per year. Per semester: CAD 9,875.
- Boarding student (Canadian): CAD 57,750 per year. Per semester: CAD 28,875.
- Boarding student (International): CAD 63,750 per year. Per semester: CAD 31,875.

- Spring Term Program (short term):
- International boarding student: CAD 20,400 to CAD 23,500 for the Spring Term (range depends on program length/options).

Billing schedule and payment terms
- The application fee (CAD 350) is payable with the application and is non‑refundable. Initial enrolment documents and an invoice are issued after acceptance; the school requires that all enrolment documents and payments listed on that invoice be returned within two weeks of receipt.
- The academic year operates on a two‑semester system (September–end of January; February–end of June). Billing is aligned with the school's intake and semester structure.
- The school states payment‑plan options are available to families; specific payment schedules and any required deposits will be shown on the enrolment invoice.

Boarding fees and what they include
- Boarding costs are bundled into the boarding tuition amounts above. Boarding tuition for international students includes accommodation, three meals daily plus snacks, health insurance for non‑Canadian passport holders, custodianship, supervised study hall, academic support, university guidance, extracurricular activities, and airport pickup/drop‑off on designated travel dates.

Other costs and fees (additional payable items)
- Uniform and basic school clothing items: the school provides a Fulford tie, a school cardigan, and two house (gym) shirts; these items are listed as included in tuition. Lunch, snacks, school books and supplies are also listed as included for students.
- Overhead/student account charges: optional or mandatory items such as a student spending/overhead account, weekend trips, some specific clubs or activities, private tutoring or extra lessons, and certain excursions or optional programs may incur additional charges. Parents should expect variable, additional charges for optional services and activities.
- Personal allowance guidance: an estimated CAD 600 per term is indicated for younger students who receive a controlled allowance; typical weekly pocket money for older students is estimated at about CAD 50 per week. Students are limited in how much cash they may hold on campus.
- Airport transfers: airport pickup/drop‑off on the school's designated travel dates is included; transfers on non‑designated dates incur additional transfer fees.

Refund and withdrawal information
- The application fee is explicitly non‑refundable. In circumstances of delayed arrival or withdrawal, unused fees are handled through a prorating process and the school applies withdrawal or adjustment charges as described in its financial procedures; the school issues credits for unused tuition and may invoice for prescribed withdrawal charges when applicable. (Application fee non‑refundability and prorating/withdrawal handling are part of the school's financial policy statements.)

Fee payment options
- The school accepts credit‑card payment processing for application and enrolment payments via the school's established payment procedures (applications or enrolment documentation can be processed by email for card payment). Evidence of credit‑card processing instructions appears in the school's admissions/financial forms.

Notes on inclusions
- Tuition line items for boarding students are described as “all‑inclusive” of the major boarding services listed above; any optional activities, personal expenses, or transfers outside designated travel dates are additional.

Boarding Arrangements

Fulford Residence provides boarding. Each student has 39 square meters of personal space with an ensuite bathroom and climate control. Juniors live in triple rooms; seniors in double rooms. The residence is supervised 24/7 with an in-house culinary team, and meals are provided; airport pickup and drop-off are available on designated travel days.

Uniform Requirement

Fulford has an academic dress code with two uniform options. Dress #1 requires black dress pants and white collared shirts for all students, while Dress #2 allows Fulford branded polo or top for casual days and sportswear in navy blue or black. The school provides a tie, a cardigan, and two gym t‑shirts, and Fridays are free dress.

Food Options

Meals are provided with vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options to accommodate dietary needs. Boarding students receive three meals daily plus snacks.

House System

Fulford Academy uses a four-house system: Beatty House, Clarence House, Green House, and Jones House. Students are assigned to a house on arrival and participate in team challenges and house-based activities to foster community, leadership, and collaboration.

Curriculum

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) programs are offered for Grades 9–12. The Grade 9–12 program follows the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) curriculum, recognized by universities across Canada and internationally. An ESL Foundation Program is available to support English language development. A University Qualification Year is offered as part of the pathway to higher education. The school operates on a two-semester system with intakes in September and February. Typical class sizes are small, with 10-14 students per class.

Student Teacher Ratio

Small class sizes. Typical classes are 10-14 students.

Exam Results

Post-secondary acceptance rate is 10%. Fulford Academy graduates have an excellent record of university acceptance both in Canada and internationally. Some of the schools our class of 2026 are attending include University of Toronto, McGill University, University of Ottawa, University of Edinburgh, University of Sydney, University of Waterloo, York University, University of British Columbia, University of Buenos Aires, and Dalhousie University.

Higher Education Progression

Graduates attend universities in Canada and around the world. Notable destinations include the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of Ottawa, University of Edinburgh, University of Sydney, University of Waterloo, York University, University of British Columbia, University of Buenos Aires, and Dalhousie University.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Student wellness is central to Fulford Academy. Residence staff are on campus 24/7 to provide support and guidance for academics, adjustment to life in Canada, and personal needs. Structured daily routines promote healthy sleep, balanced nutrition, exercise, and time for study and downtime. The school provides opportunities for leadership, including peer mentoring, club leadership, and community events. The overall focus on wellness and personal growth supports social and emotional development for international learners.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Fulford Academy offers an ESL Foundation Program for students who need to build English proficiency before joining the regular academic stream. The program focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking to prepare for university applications and Canadian life. Additional English support is available throughout the school year. Students transition into Grade 9-12 or University Qualification Year programs with English language support. For students who require further support, one-to-one tutoring is available at an additional cost.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Fulford Academy offers the ESL Foundation Program for international students to develop English language skills before entering the regular academic stream. The program concentrates on reading, writing, listening, and speaking to build language proficiency. English proficiency development leads to gradual introduction to the regular curriculum. The ESL Foundation Program supports English improvement while preparing for academic success. If a student has not completed an English assessment, an English proficiency assessment is required for admission. If the student has not completed an English assessment, an online invitation to complete the Duolingo English Test may be issued.

Mental Wellbeing

Student wellness is central to Fulford Academy. Residence staff are available 24/7 to provide support and guidance for students adjusting to life in Canada and managing daily life. The school coordinates access to health services, counselling, and other resources as needed. Structured daily routines promote healthy sleep, nutrition, exercise, and a balance between academics and downtime. Leadership opportunities help students build confidence, resilience, and independence.

Safeguarding

Fulford Academy prioritizes safety and student well-being. Students are supervised by trained residence staff 24 hours a day. Staff on campus provide ongoing support and guidance. A safe and secure environment is maintained with 24/7 supervision and secure living areas. Comprehensive safety protocols are in place to ensure safety for students.

History

Founded in 2002, Fulford Academy provides a small-school environment for students from around the world. It serves students in Grades 9 to 12 and offers the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). The school emphasizes small class sizes, with an average of 12-14 students per class and 140 hours of in-class instruction per credit. Dr. Tom Steele, former Head of School, continues to support Fulford Academy with strategic guidance and academic leadership. The campus is located at 118 Main Street East, Merrickville, Ontario.

Community

Fulford Academy uses a House system in which every student and staff member belongs to Beatty, Clarence, Green, or Jones House to foster community, collaboration, and leadership. Dynamic club programs and house-based activities support a sense of belonging for boarding and day students. Fulford students actively volunteer in Merrickville community events, including Lions Club events, Royal Canadian Legion events, Merrickville Theatre Nights, and Christmas in Merrickville. The school is a partner of Atlético Ottawa, reflecting broader community connections beyond campus.

Facilities Overview

The campus is located in Merrickville, Ontario, in a renovated former inn and conference centre. Bright, spacious classrooms are designed to support focused learning. Fulford Residence provides living spaces up to 39 square metres with a four-piece ensuite bathroom and individual climate control. Common areas include cozy lounges with large-screen TVs and gaming consoles, a dedicated game room with a pool table and ping-pong, a piano, a sports and weight room, and outdoor playing fields including a basketball court. The boutique boarding program offers shared rooms with ensuite bathrooms, fresh meals, and 24/7 supervision.

Sports Facilities

Outdoor playing fields are available, including a basketball court. A sports and weight room is on site for fitness and training. Several common areas provide space for recreation, with game rooms and recreational equipment such as pool and ping-pong tables. The facilities support a range of athletic and recreational activities as part of student life.

Academic Facilities

Small class sizes average 10–12 students, enabling teachers to tailor instruction. ESL-focused curriculum integrates language learning across subjects with structured IELTS and OSSLT preparation built into the timetable. The Grade 9–12 program follows the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) curriculum with project-based learning and a range of course options. ESL Foundation, University Qualification Year (UQY), and Spring Term programs provide flexible pathways for international students. Supervised study halls give extra academic support.

Extra Curricular Facilities

From athletics and arts to clubs and community service, student life encompasses a broad range of extracurricular activities. Evenings vary with additional study halls, clubs, volunteer opportunities, and leadership team-building sessions. Weekends feature carefully planned excursions, including museum visits, seasonal festivals, and trips to Ottawa. Summer Camps include ESL Language Adventure Camp and Robotics & Science Day Camp. Residence life provides weekend excursions and structured programs that complement academics.

Academic & Intellectual

The school has leadership opportunities through clubs, events, and activities, enabling students to organize projects and lead teams. Clubs such as Art, Chess, Writing, and Model UN foster intellectual engagement and collaboration. Participation in clubs develops critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. On-campus activities and trips supplement learning and provide real-world contexts for academic interests.

Arts & Creative

The school has Art, Music, Dance, and Drama clubs that provide outlets for creativity. Writing is offered as a creative and academic pursuit within clubs and activities. On-campus arts events and performances give students opportunities to express themselves. Students collaborate with peers to develop projects that combine imagination with skill.

Cultural & Language

The school has Model UN, which broadens awareness of international issues and diplomacy. Cultural exposure comes through trips to Ottawa Parliament Buildings and other cultural destinations. These experiences broaden understanding of global cultures and civic institutions.

Social & Hobbies

The school has on-campus activities including movie nights, sports tournaments, and social events. Clubs span diverse interests such as Art, Chess, Writing, Music, Dance, Tennis, Golf, Skiing, Curling, and Drama. These activities help students build friendships, social skills, and a sense of community. They also provide structured opportunities to unwind after academics.

Community & Service

The school has engagement with the local community through extracurricular programs. Student activities and trips provide experiences connected to community life. Cultural trips to nearby cities and visits to museums help students connect with Canadian communities.

Leadership & Professional

The school has Student Leadership Opportunities that place students in leadership roles in clubs, events, and activities. Students organize events and lead group projects, developing responsibility and teamwork. The school provides personalized university and career guidance to support post-secondary preparation.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The school has athletic teams that promote physical fitness, discipline, and teamwork. Sports include volleyball, basketball, soccer, track and field, cross country, running, badminton, curling, golf, and tennis. An Outdoor Club supports outdoor activities and wellness. There are on-campus activities and social events that contribute to overall well-being.

Admissions

1. Review Application Instructions First. Before applying, ensure you have all the required information for the application process. You can save and return to it later, but you must complete it within twenty-one (21) days. Confirm your application has been submitted, as incomplete applications will not be processed.

2. Gather Important Documents. Collect two years of the most recent report cards or transcripts; standardized test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or other relevant assessments); if English assessment has not yet been completed, you will be invited to complete the Duolingo English Test (DET) online, with results provided within 2 days; include educational assessments if applicable; provide a passport copy for international students; include a recent photo and immunization records.

3. Start the Online Application Process. Complete the application form by clicking the “Apply Now” button. The form requests academic records, a copy of the applicant's passport, a recent head-and-shoulders photo, and an immunization record.

4. After Application Submission. Once the Application Form and a $350 non-refundable application fee are received, the process proceeds through five steps.

5. Student Interview. Applicants are contacted to book and attend an informal interview that is 15–20 minutes long. Interviews can be conducted in person, via Zoom, WhatsApp, WeChat, FaceTime, or another convenient medium.

6. English Language Assessment. Applicants take a 30-minute timed English language test. The instructions are provided after the interview.

7. Personal Profile Statement. Applicants must submit a 300-word personal profile written in their own handwriting outlining academic goals and interests, extracurricular activities, community involvement, and areas of distinction. A template is provided. Statement is due within 2 weeks of receiving the request.

8. Initial Enrolment Documents & Payment Due. Initial enrolment documents and the invoice are emailed to the applicant's family. All documents and payments are due within 2 weeks of receiving the email.

9. Final Enrolment Documents. Final enrolment documents are emailed by Fulford Academy to the applicant. The applicant is then officially registered at Fulford Academy.

10. Receive Acceptance Decision. After the interview, the English language assessment results, and the handwritten personal profile are reviewed, and a decision regarding acceptance is sent. If accepted, an Official Offer of Enrolment is issued with detailed instructions on the next steps for registration and enrollment.

11. Complete Enrolment and Registration. Upon acceptance, the deposit is paid, enrolment documents are submitted, and preparations are made for the first day at Fulford Academy.

Scholarships

Limited merit-based scholarships and financial assistance opportunities are available. Eligibility and application details are provided by the admissions team.

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