Branksome Hall vs Columbia International College

	B Branksome Hall Toronto, Canada	C Columbia International College Toronto, Canada
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CA$45,140 - 49,210	Fees / year CA$42,650 - 60,950
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 12 - 18 years
Type	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum	Curriculum Canadian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 900	Pupils 1,800
Typical class size	Typical class size 16	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1903	Opened 1979
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Branksome Hall is located at 10 Elm Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 1N4, on an urban campus in central Toronto. The school sits in the Rosedale neighbourhood, within walking distance of the University of Toronto, public transit, libraries, theatres and the Yonge–Bloor intersection. The campus includes a mix of heritage mansions and modern buildings.	Location Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Hamilton is a big city with a small-town heart and is centrally located about an hour from Toronto and Niagara Falls. Columbia International College enriches the city with students from more than 70 countries.
Stages	Stages Primary Years Programme JK–Grade 6; Middle Years Programme Grade 7–10; Diploma Programme or IB Select for Grades 11–12	Stages Grade 7–12
School type	School type The school is an independent IB World School for girls and offers a boarding program.	School type Private boarding high school
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix 13 countries represented by boarding students.	Pupil nationality mix Students come from more than 70 countries.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning Strategies, School Counselling, Social Work and University Counselling support students' academic and personal growth. The Health Centre provides on-site nursing, and Differentiation plus before- and after-school homework support assist diverse learners.	Additional learning support ESL courses (Monthly ESL) are available to prepare students for CIC courses.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Canada	Country affiliation Canada
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Door-to-door school bus service from residences to school
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fees - Day application fee (by date of submission): $200 if submitted before November 1; $300 if submitted on or after November 1. Initial registration / enrolment deposit (new students) - Initial Registration Fee (IRF) on acceptance: CAD 9,500 (non‑refundable). - IRF if a sister is already enrolled: CAD 6,500 (non‑refundable). Tuition fees (2026–27) — annual amounts (all fees in Canadian dollars) - Day students: - Junior Kindergarten–Grade 10: CAD 45,140 per year. - Grades 11–12: CAD 49,210 per year. - Boarding students (Grades eligible for boarding noted by the school): - Grades 7–10 (boarding): CAD 86,640 per year. - Grades 11–12 (boarding): CAD 90,710 per year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition and fees are published in Canadian dollars and are set annually by the Board of Governors each January. Monthly and early‑payment plans are available to families; specific instalment schedules and deadlines are provided on the school invoice and in the school's billing communications. Boarding‑specific fees and recurring charges - Boarding activity fee: CAD 900 per year (Grades 7–12). - Medical insurance for international boarding students: CAD 800+ (variable). - Guardianship fee (if required for international students): CAD 1,500–2,000. Other mandatory and common additional costs - Branksome Hall Parents' Association (BHPA) fee: CAD 100 per student (annual). - Activity fees: - JK–Grade 6 activity fee: CAD 300. - Grades 7–12 activity fee: CAD 300. - Meals: - JK–Grade 6 hot lunch program: CAD 600–1,000 per term (varies by participation). - Grades 7–12: a la carte meal options; costs vary. - Uniform costs (one‑time wardrobe purchase ranges): - JK–Grade 5: CAD 850–1,100. - Grade 6: CAD 1,100–1,300. - Grades 7–12: CAD 1,100–1,300. - Texts, materials and academic extras: - JK–Grade 6 texts and materials: CAD 200–300. - Grades 7–12 textbooks: CAD 800+ (depending on course selection). - International languages (optional, individual instruction): CAD 5,250; group rates and other optional academic services apply. - Technology program (where applicable): JS Technology CAD 200 for JK–3; MacBook leasing program CAD 550–575 for Grades 4–12 entrants to the leasing program. - Music and instrument fees (where applicable): instrument fees CAD 50–100; music participation fees CAD 50–100. - Field trips, exchanges and optional signature trips: broadly range from a few hundred dollars to CAD 3,000–10,000 for larger international programs, depending on grade and trip. Tuition Refund Plan (optional insurance) - Optional tuition refund insurance premiums (examples): - JK–Grade 10 day students: CAD 1,024 (optional). - Grades 11–12 day students: CAD 1,116 (optional). - Grades 7–10 boarding students: CAD 1,989 (optional). - Grades 11–12 boarding students: CAD 2,081 (optional). - The tuition refund plan is presented to families as an optional insurance product with its own premium; details and enrolment are handled through the school's billing/finance process. Refunds and non‑refundable items - Application fees are non‑refundable. The Initial Registration Fee (IRF) is non‑refundable. These non‑refundable conditions apply at the times those fees are specified. The school offers optional tuition‑refund insurance for families who wish to cover particular withdrawal risks. Fee payment options and where payment instructions appear - The school issues invoices and communicates payment instructions through its family billing channels and the MyBranksome parent portal. Monthly instalment and early‑payment plans are available; exact payment methods (for example, bank transfer or other channels) and any applicable banking details are provided on invoices and in the school's billing communications. Practical notes for parents - All figures above are published by the school in Canadian dollars for the 2026–27 academic year and are presented as the school's fees for that year. Payment schedules, instalment due dates, and precise invoiced amounts (including any mandatory deposits, sibling adjustments or optional program charges) are provided to families in the school's formal invoice and acceptance paperwork.	Fee details Application and enrolment fees - Application Fee: CAD 300. - Custodian documentation: CAD 300. Total Care+ (TCP) and refundable deposit - Total Care+ Program (priority care for students under 16 at the start of a semester): CAD 1,100 per semester. - Security deposit (one‑time, refundable at move‑out to cover damages/repairs): CAD 1,000. Tuition fees (Grades 9–12) — per course and by intake - Per course (International students): CAD 3,400 per course. - Per course (Canadian students): CAD 2,550 per course. - Aug–May (10 months) — typical full academic intake (8 courses example): - Tuition (8 courses example): CAD 27,200. - Residence (flat rate for the 10‑month intake): CAD 11,000. - Meal plan (up to 26 meals per week, 10 months): CAD 13,000. - Internet / Tech fee: CAD 500. - Leadership activity fee: CAD 300. - Uniform package: CAD 650. - Example total (8 courses, residence, meal plan, listed standard fees): CAD 52,650. - Jan–Jun (6 months Fast‑Track Pre‑U program) — shorter intensive intake (6 courses example): - Tuition (6 courses example): CAD 20,400. - Residence (flat rate for this 6‑month intake): CAD 6,600. - Meal plan (up to 26 meals per week): CAD 7,800. - Internet / Tech fee: CAD 375. - Leadership activity fee: CAD 225. - Uniform package: CAD 650. - Example total (6 courses, residence, meal plan, listed standard fees): CAD 36,050. Personalized and recurring fees - Student Health Insurance (mandatory for international students): fees by duration — 1 month: CAD 150; 5 months: CAD 750; 6 months: CAD 900; 7–12 months: CAD 1,000. - Student Sundry Account (preloaded account for textbooks, additional uniform, laundry, taxis, trips, replacement ID/fobs, etc.): CAD 2,000 (unused balance is fully refundable). - School bus transportation & discounted Hamilton city bus pass (10 months): Residence students CAD 1,500; shorter intake CAD 900. All students living off‑campus must purchase a breakfast & lunch plan (CAD 1,500); non‑residence meal package shown as CAD 5,500 (selected fee details). Billing schedule and payment terms (summary of how fees are presented and key terms) - Fees are published by intake/duration: the school lists standard fee packages for the two common academic patterns: Aug–May (10 months) and Jan–Jun (6 months fast‑track). Examples above follow those two billing periods. - One‑time refundable security deposit is collected and refunded at residence move‑out (subject to deductions for damages). The application fee (CAD 300) is not refundable. Student Sundry Account unused balance is refundable. - Exchange rate and online payment terms: international online payment portals lock the exchange rate for 72 hours; wire transfers and foreign‑currency receipts are converted at the Bank of Canada cash rate on the day funds are received. Boarding / residence fees - Residence flat rate (Aug–May, 10 months): CAD 11,000. - Residence flat rate (Jan–Jun, 6 months fast‑track): CAD 6,600. - Meal plan (residence, 10 months): CAD 13,000 (26 meals per week; meal service available year‑round). These residence and meal plan amounts are included in the example totals above. Other costs - Uniform package (standard set): CAD 650. - Internet / Tech fee: CAD 500 (10‑month intake) or CAD 375 (6‑month intake). - Leadership activity fee: CAD 300 (10‑month intake) or CAD 225 (6‑month intake). - Personalized/one‑off fees shown in the fee schedules are included in the totals above. Refund information and conditions - If a Canadian Study Permit (Study Permit) is refused by IRCC, a full tuition fee refund is granted less an administration fee of CAD 500; to obtain this refund the student must provide the IRCC refusal letter. The application fee (CAD 300) is not refundable. - There is no refund of tuition in listed circumstances including: during the application of a Study Permit (except where the Study Permit is refused by IRCC as noted above); if the student withdraws for reasons other than Study Permit refusal; after registration at the school for disciplinary dismissal or expulsion; or where medical conditions were not disclosed or are discovered upon arrival and CIC is unable to provide adequate medical attention. - The student sundry account unused balance and the refundable security deposit (subject to deductions) will be returned where applicable. Discounts and reductions - Sibling discount (Grade 9–12 enrolled at the same time): 25% discount on tuition for the first sibling to graduate during the period both are enrolled. - Family discount (to enroll later after a sibling graduated): 10% discount on tuition for subsequent siblings. - Discounts are not cumulative and apply only to international students who hold a Canadian Study Permit, per the published policy. Fee payment options (accepted methods) - Online international payment portals: CIBC International Student Pay (portal) and Convera / Western Union GlobalPay (online payment in many currencies; options include bank transfer, credit/debit card, and eWallet). These services offer competitive FX rates and lock the quoted exchange rate for 72 hours. - Money order or cheque (processed on campus or mailed to Accounts Receivable at 1003 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4P3). - International wire transfer information is available upon request (email: invoice.inquiry@cic-totalcare.com). - For online platforms, some card and eWallet options are available through the provider platforms; the institution's published exchange‑rate policy applies. Notes on presentation of figures - All figures above are shown in Canadian dollars (CAD) and follow the school's published 2026–2027 fee schedule for the standard Grade 9–12 intakes and selected fee items. The schedule distinguishes the two common intake periods (Aug–May and Jan–Jun) and shows tuition charged per course (CAD 3,400 per course for international students).
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements The school has on-campus boarding at Branksome Hall's downtown Toronto campus, located on 13 acres along a wooded ravine. Boarding is housed in heritage homes and new buildings linked by state-of-the-art technology, and the school welcomes over 50 students from Canada and around the world into Boarding.	Boarding arrangements Total Care Living® comprises five residence buildings with separate housing for boys and girls. The boys residences are Arkledun Hall, Oak Hall, and Pine Hall Boys; the girls residences are Linden Hall and Pine Hall Girls. Residences are open year‑round and food services run 365 days a year; door‑to‑door bus service connects residences to the school; after‑school and evening activities are provided in residence with staff tutors available.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school has a uniform program. JK–Grade 5 uniforms cost about $750–$900, Grade 6 uniforms about $1,000 and Grades 7–12 uniforms about $1,100 (approximate costs).	Uniform requirement The CIC Uniform Policy requires students to wear CIC uniform items (Oxford blue shirt, blazer, and optional vest or navy crew neck/fleece; tie optional; CIC polo; and CIC uniform pants). Socks must be all black and above the ankle; footwear must be all black with no logos and with soles not exceeding 2 inches. There are seasonal variations (May–October and October–May) for the mandatory uniform; uniform items may be purchased at the campus store.
Food options	Food options Food on campus is provided through a meal program: JK–Grade 6 has a Hot Lunch Program with term-based costs, while Grades 7–12 meals are offered as à la carte options.	Food options Meals are provided by Chartwells on campus, with three on‑site eateries: World Fusion at the Living Wall, The Grill at the Cafe, and Spice Corner at Oak Hall. The plan includes 26 meals per week, year‑round cafeterias, and accommodations for allergies or dietary needs (halal, kosher, vegetarian, lactose‑free).
House system	House system Clans function as Branksome Hall's house system. There are eight Clans in the Junior School and eight in the Senior & Middle School, named for Branksome's Scottish roots; every student and staff member belongs to a Clan; Clan placement can be determined by a sibling's or alum's Clan, and junior Clans are twinned with senior Clans. There are annual Spirit events and Clan leadership structures featuring Clan Leaders and a Clan Prefect.	House system Total Care Living® houses students across five residence buildings (Arkledun Hall, Oak Hall, Pine Hall Boys, Linden Hall, Pine Hall Girls); separate housing is provided for boys and girls with associated facilities and amenities, including on‑site dining, residence life activities, and bus service to the school.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Branksome Hall is an independent school. The Branksome Hall Foundation manages Branksome's endowment assets, and the Foundation is overseen by an independent board of trustees.	Governance and ownership The school is registered with the Ontario Ministry of Education (school number 880183) and accredited by the MOE, and operates under the Total Care Education® framework.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program exclusively for girls from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. The program includes the Primary Years Programme for JK–Grade 6, the Middle Years Programme for Grades 7–10, and two Senior School pathways for Grades 11–12: the Full Diploma Programme and the Branksome Hall IB Select pathway.	Curriculum details The school offers courses across Arts, Business Studies, Computer Studies, Languages, English, Physical Education, Co-operative Education, Mathematics, Science, and Social Sciences and Humanities for Grades 7–12. Support Classes include ESL and Learning Support; University Preparatory courses are available, and the University Placement Office assistance and Dual Admissions are accessible to help with university admissions.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Branksome Hall's IB program emphasizes university preparation. IB differentiators include that IB students are more likely to be accepted into top-tier universities (about 30% higher than non-IB peers). Branksome students earned $5.3 million in scholarships in 2025, and about 80% of IB students participate in international study experiences. Graduates are accepted at top universities worldwide, including the University of Toronto, McGill University and Harvard University.	Higher education progression The University Partners program includes more than 10 university partners, with major partners such as the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, McMaster University, York University and Western University; university admission staff are assigned to work with CIC's University Placement Office, and information sessions are held by more than 35 universities from Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. CIC graduates are eligible for English proficiency exemptions at several partner universities, and scholarships are available through partner institutions; CIC also offers pathways such as Elite Pathway with University of Toronto.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning SEL is central to Branksome Hall's IB curriculum, focusing on self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making. A Student Support Team uses a consultative model to address academic, physical and social-emotional needs, and the Advisor program provides mentorship for personal growth. Social Work, School Counselling and the Health Centre support positive mental health and well-being, with the Learning Strategies program assisting students in developing executive functioning and study skills. Peer Support is a peer-led program that fosters resiliency and well-being, and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives embed SEL principles across the school. Daily community-building activities, including Community Circle and Advisor-led well-being activities, support students' social-emotional development.	Social & emotional learning The school has a Total Care Education System designed to nurture international students in four areas essential to growth and achievement: Total Care Learning, Total Care Development, Total Care Living, and Total Care Communication. This framework supports social and emotional development through experiential learning, character education, and leadership opportunities.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Strategies is an integral part of the academic program and collaborates with families, School Counsellors and teachers to support academic success. A differentiated learning approach provides early literacy and math intervention in the Junior School and supports in Senior & Middle School, with before- and after-school homework help. The Diverse Learning program offers individualized plans with strategies shared confidentially with teachers, and testing accommodations for students with identified learning needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language —	English as an additional language The ESL Program offers five levels from Beginners to Advanced and provides up to 33 hours of ESL instruction per week, with small classes of 15–20 students. It includes TOEFL training, serves as an official TOEFL iBT test centre (and MELAB centre), and uses diagnostic testing at orientation to place students in appropriate classes. ESL courses are offered with six start dates (January, March, June, July, August, October) and can run in 4-week or 8-week blocks.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Health Centre staff, including Registered Nurses, provide medical care and social-emotional support. School Counsellors assist with social-emotional well-being and course planning, and Social Workers support positive mental health for students and families. The Health Centre partners with WELL Health Clinic to provide physician assessment and care as needed.	Mental wellbeing The school emphasizes holistic student wellbeing as part of TOTAL CARE, supporting students academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Residential life and student programming include after-school activities and leadership opportunities, with on-site wellness features (e.g., Wellness Station) and staff-supervised tutoring to support wellbeing in and around the residence.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Circle of Care is Branksome Hall's interdisciplinary approach to supporting students' mental and physical health. It includes the student, Boarding Team, Health Centre staff and Social Workers, with other trusted adults such as parents, teachers and School Counsellors included as appropriate. Branksome Hall adheres to Toronto Public Health health and safety regulations and relies on the Health Centre team for safeguarding guidance.	Safeguarding Staff promote awareness of bullying and harassment, healthy living, and ethical global conduct as part of the school's safeguarding and character-education initiatives within the Total Care Education System.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Branksome Hall sits on a 13-acre urban Toronto campus with heritage buildings. A ravine woodlot provides an outdoor classroom. The Athletics and Wellness Centre opened in 2015 and is 69,849 sq ft over two storeys, with athletics spaces, fitness areas, yoga and dance studios, an erg room and a dining hall. The campus features two saltwater pools, a double gym, STEAM Studio, Makerspaces, a rock-climbing wall, libraries, tennis courts and grass fields; iCAST connects East and West with a STEAM studio and a 200-seat theatre.	Facilities overview The campus operates five residences: Oak Hall and Arkledun Hall for boys, and Linden Hall, Pine Hall, and Pine Girls for girls. Four cafeterias serve the campus and residences, with the residence cafeteria open 365 days a year. Meals are prepared on-site with dining spaces across campus and in residences, in partnership with Chartwells. The Living Wall Lounge houses the Study and Tutoring Centre, and study rooms are available on each residence floor. Recreational facilities vary by residence and include squash courts, an indoor gym, an indoor swimming pool, a games room, ping-pong tables, basketball courts, a dance studio, and an outdoor BBQ terrace.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Athletics facilities include two saltwater pools and a double gymnasium with dance and yoga studios. An erg rowing room, a fitness centre and rooftop terraces support training. There is an indoor rock-climbing wall. Four outdoor tennis courts and grass playing fields support team and individual sports.	Sports facilities On-site facilities include squash courts, a games room, TV room, an indoor gymnasium, an indoor swimming pool, ping-pong tables, basketball courts, and a dance studio. Recreational spaces such as outdoor BBQ terraces are available, with facilities varying by residence. Each residence provides lounges and study rooms, plus internet access and climate control to support activity and downtime.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities STEAM Studio and Makerspaces enable hands-on learning across science, technology, engineering and arts. Two libraries/resource centres support study and research. The Outdoor Classroom provides experiential learning in the ravine woodland. The iCAST project is under construction and will connect East and West campuses with a STEAM studio, wood/machine shop, robotics lab, design space and a 200-seat black box theatre.	Academic facilities Academic support is available through a Study and Tutoring Centre located in the Living Wall Lounge, with rooms for individual and group study on campus. In-residence study rooms are provided on each floor, and there is a formal after-school homework period supported by staff. Online tutoring is available through the e-Tutor platform, with tutoring resources and help available at various times throughout the day.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Branksome Hall supports clubs and co-curricular opportunities across arts, athletics and innovation. iCAST will expand these opportunities with a 200-seat theatre, STEAM studio and design spaces. Athletics facilities support sports clubs and fitness programs. The campus provides spaces for performing arts and STEAM projects.	Extra curricular facilities The CIC Dining Experience includes a Culinary Classroom with modern kitchen facilities for nutrition classes and cooking clubs. Dining events feature a variety of cooking activities, including nutritious cooking classes, a pop-up sushi bar, outdoor BBQ events, and food trucks, with meals and cuisine from around the world.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Founded in 1903 by Miss Margaret Scott, Branksome Hall is an independent girls' school on a 13-acre campus in Toronto's Rosedale, educating more than 900 JK–12 students. The school began at 102 Bloor Street East and relocated in 1910 to 592 Sherbourne Street when Edith Read became principal. In 1912 Branksome Hall purchased Hollydene at 10 Elm Avenue and expanded the campus, building a gymnasium and pool; the Prefect and Clan systems were introduced and the Hunting Stewart tartan adopted for the uniform. In 1940 a group of girls and staff from Sherborne Girls' School in England was evacuated to Branksome Hall, and the partnership continues with annual exchanges. Branksome became a fully authorized IB World School in 2003; Branksome Hall Asia opened in 2012; the Athletics and Wellness Centre opened in 2015, and the Karen L. Jurjevich Innovation Centre and Studio Theatre (iCAST) will open in 2026.	History Founded in 1979, Columbia International College is Canada's largest boarding school. For more than 40 years CIC has accelerated student success through the Total Care Education System. The Total Care Education System nurtures international students in four areas essential to their growth: Total Care Learning, Total Care Development, Total Care Living, and Total Care Communication. The school serves students from over 100 countries and is accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Community	Community Branksome Hall engages with Toronto communities and participates in international trips to help students make a difference. Global connections include exchanges and a study abroad program with Branksome Hall Asia, enabling students to learn worldwide. There is a sister school in South Korea.	Community The school fosters a caring community under the Total Care Education System, focusing on student well-being, health, safety and success. Be Under Our Caring Wings expresses CIC's commitment to care, including Total Care Communication, 24/7 Around the Clock Care, and The JOURNEY of Success. A global student body and experiential learning opportunities—such as leadership training and community service—support a vibrant campus life. Student Life showcases programs and events that illustrate CIC's active, inclusive community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Branksome Hall Parents' Association is a volunteer-led organization at the heart of the parent community. It broadly supports Branksome's mission and strategic direction through active parent engagement, ongoing communication and strong partnerships. For more information about the BHPA, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, contact parents@branksome.on.ca. BHPA Executive 2025–26: President Devon Domelle Parsons'95; Treasurer Maria Semenko; Secretary Aisha Champsi; Communications Davida Aronovitch; Parent Socials Lead Susan Austin; Parent Socials Lead Carolyn Moore Allas; Portfolio Manager Jenny Medland; Community Engagement Lead, SMS Nicole Antony; Community Engagement Co-Lead, JS Grace Normandin; Community Engagement Co-Lead, JS Raewyn Robbins.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Math enrichment is provided through Pi-Landers Math Enrichment and JUMP Math, and the Branksome Mathematics Club has won the Canadian Team Math Contest.	Academic & intellectual From Grade 7 through Ontario Secondary School Graduation, the Total Care Education System addresses academic, social, emotional, and physical needs and prepares students for university. Total Care Learning balances in-class learning, individual study, and experiential learning to maximize academic potential. A diagnostic assessment process, one-on-one counselling, and a Personal Success Plan tailor courses to each student's path, with extensive university placement support and partnerships guiding graduates toward admission to top universities.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Performing Arts groups include ensembles, bands, orchestras, choirs, plays, dance ensembles and musicals. The Elm Editor is the student-run newspaper, Perennial is the literary and arts magazine, and Slogan is the yearbook.	Arts & creative There are Art Clubs, including painting, polymer clay, origami, Glee, Improv, acting, collage making, film making, and other creative pursuits, complemented by international film and media activities. Students can participate in Sciences and other clubs that foster creativity and collaborative projects. After-school clubs and student-led projects provide ongoing opportunities to explore visual arts, performance, and film.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Senior & Middle School includes the K-Pop & Korean Culture Club for Grades 7–12.	Cultural & language Total Care Communication offers a single point of contact for families with dedicated liaison staff and support in regional languages, helping parents communicate with school departments. An online ASEP Tracker and EZ Report Card keep families connected to a student's Academic, Social, Emotional, and Physical progress. Multilingual liaison support and translated communications facilitate ongoing, transparent family involvement.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Junior School offers Arts & Crafts, Ballet and Dance, Musical Theatre, Games Club and Primary Choir. Senior & Middle School offers Roller Coaster Club, Creative Writing Clubs, Dungeons and Dragons, Film Club and Guitar Club; Drop-In Groups provide informal activities.	Social & hobbies A diverse social experience is built into CIC life through sports, clubs, volunteering, community service, events, and leadership coaching. Students participate in a wide range of events, trips, and extracurricular activities, including athletics and cultural programs. Clubs span arts, science, media, and beyond, contributing to a well-rounded social experience inside and outside the classroom.
Community & service	Community & service Community Engagement initiatives foster partnerships between Branksome students and external organizations or communities. Examples include collaborations with Let's Grow Learning & Living Hub and New Circles, along with cultural meals, cooking lessons, arts and crafts and community service.	Community & service Community service opportunities and service prefect roles are integral to student life, with leadership training and participation in clubs that support charitable work. Students can engage in community service teams, service-prefect roles, and local volunteering as part of their development. Regular events, trips, and service projects foster a sense of civic responsibility and community involvement.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Clubs are overseen by a Clubs Coordinator and Clubs Prefect, and Signature Student Programs provide leadership and professional development opportunities.	Leadership & professional Leadership training is embedded in the Total Care model, with roles such as Residence Life Prefects, Community Service Prefects, and School Leadership Teams. Activities include Model United Nations, diverse student councils, and Duke of Edinburgh Award participation, all designed to develop communication, teamwork and project leadership. The Bark Lake leadership program and other experiential experiences further prepare students for university and professional life.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The Athletics program promotes physical well-being, teamwork, discipline and lifelong active living through competitive and recreational sports.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Total Care Living provides a home-away-from-home on campus with a safe, comfortable living environment and on-site health support. Nurses visit residences daily, there is an in-residence clinic, and 24/7 security and residence staff ensure safety. Nutritious meals are served on-site, with up to four meals a day and dietary options to meet religious or cultural needs. For younger students, special care is available with dedicated staff and custodianship arrangements, along with orientation, transportation between school and residences, and wellness resources.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision A foreign language is studied every year from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 10. An International Languages program supports students studying their home language. Optional International Languages instruction is available in Grades 3–10 for individual instruction, or for two or more students. Optional International Languages instruction is available in Grades 11–12.	Language provision The school teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) to support non-native speakers and help them adjust to the school environment and academic work. New arrivals are placed into English/ESL courses based on their level (e.g., ENG1D/ESLDO or ENG2D/ESLEO) to build foundational English and transition to academic English. Multilingual staff provide translation support to assist students and families with communication as needed.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations Columbia International College is registered with school number 880183 and accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Create Your Account and Submit Your Application. Create an account on the Branksome Hall Portal to complete and submit the application, including payment of the application fee. The application will be processed within two business days, and a checklist will be assigned to the account to upload required documents. 2. Application Checklist. Upload the required documents, including birth certificate and/or passport, relevant report cards, and English and Math teacher recommendation forms; boarding applicants must also submit a brief two‑minute introductory video. 3. Application Update. After a comprehensive review of the application, the Admissions Office will contact applicants to schedule their interview and assessment. 4. Assessment and Interview. An interview and assessment are mandatory for all Boarding applicants. Grades 7–8 present a portfolio during the interview; Grades 9–11 may be required to complete Branksome Hall Math and English Entrance Tests or the SSAT; no interview preparation is required as this is an opportunity to connect with the school. 5. Admissions Decision. All applicants receive an update within two weeks of completing the admissions process, which includes the interview, assessment, and submission of all required documents. 6. Grade-Specific Details. For Grades 7–8, the interview includes presenting a portfolio with components such as a writing sample and a mathematics task; for Grades 9–11, applicants may choose between Branksome Hall entrance tests or the SSAT. 7. Boarding Deadlines and Guardian Requirements. Boarding applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with a recommendation to apply by December 1, 2025 to ensure first‑round consideration; guardian arrangements are required for students whose parents do not reside in Toronto; Entrance Scholarship applications have deadlines (e.g., January 26, 2026). 8. Financial Aid Context (brief). Financial assistance and related deadlines apply to qualifying families, with separate timelines for returning and new families (e.g., Apple Financial Services submissions due by late 2025/early 2026).	Admissions 1. Programs and initial requirements. The school offers High School (Grades 9-12), ESL Program, and ESL Summer Camp Program. Applicants must obtain a Student Authorization Permit from the Canadian Embassy or Consulate in their home country (or outside Canada) before arriving to study in Canada. This ensures proper entry and eligibility to study at CIC. 2. Flexible admission dates and personalized pathway. CIC offers six admission dates throughout the year to fit the student's timeline. The admissions process is personalized to meet each student's needs. Students can begin studying as soon as they complete the current academic term or year in their home country, avoiding long waiting periods. This approach can help students complete their studies faster and enter the university of their choice sooner. 3. Fees. A breakdown of tuition fees is provided for international and domestic students. Fees are described in the Student Fees section to help families plan financially. 4. Apply Online. Apply Online is available to start the admissions process. The page highlights six admission dates and an online application option. Applicants should submit the online application to initiate the process. 5. Placement Tests. All new students take diagnostic placement tests before registering for courses to assess skills and place them appropriately. Placement tests help determine course placement and credit recognition. 6. Awards & Scholarships. Awards & Scholarships are offered; to qualify, all credits must be taken within 12 consecutive months. The program includes a range of merit-based and leadership awards as part of CIC's offerings.
Scholarships	Scholarships Entrance Merit Scholarship - $5,000: Awarded to outstanding incoming Grades 7–11 students; all applicants are automatically eligible and no separate application is required. Maple Leaf Scholarship for Boarding - $10,000: Awarded to an outstanding incoming Canadian Boarding student; all Canadian Boarding applicants are automatically eligible and no separate application is required. Sherborne Scholarship for Boarding - $10,000: Awarded to an outstanding incoming international Boarding student; all International Boarding applicants are automatically eligible and no separate application is required. Innovation Scholarship - $3,000: Recognizes a student's commitment to creativity and innovation; any Grades 7–11 applicant can apply by submitting a 250-word personal statement to scholarships@branksome.on.ca; due January 25, 2026. Arts Scholarship - $3,000: Recognizes artistic expression; any Grades 7–11 applicant can apply with a 250-word personal statement; due January 25, 2026. Spirit of Sports Scholarship - $3,000: Recognizes commitment to athletics, fair play and team spirit; any Grades 7–11 applicant can apply with a 250-word personal statement; due January 25, 2026. Community Engagement Scholarship - $3,000: Recognizes commitment to community service; any Grades 7–11 applicant can apply with a 250-word personal statement; due January 25, 2026. Leadership Scholarship - $3,000: Recognizes leadership in or out of school; any Grades 7–11 applicant can apply with a 250-word personal statement; due January 25, 2026.	Scholarships Awards & Scholarships overview. All awards and scholarships are given by CIC. To qualify, all credits must be taken within 12 consecutive months. The following are examples of CIC scholarships and awards: Governor General's Medal (awarded to the graduating student with the highest academic average in the best six 4U courses; recipient receives a Governor General's medal); Head Prefect Award (certificate for Residence and school head prefects); Columbia Leadership Awards (awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding leadership; recipients are selected by staff and a panel); Lieutenant Governor's Volunteer Award (recognizes an exemplary volunteer among graduating students); Residence Council Leadership Award (awarded to a student who has made a significant contribution to residence life); Ontario Scholars (designated for graduates with an 80% average in six 4U credits). The Columbia Scholarship Endowment Fund includes multiple named scholarships, such as Principal's Scholarship: University Pathway (three $1,500 awards to top 4U graduates meeting minimum averages), Clement Chan Founders' Merit Scholarship (three $1,500 awards), Jim Lawlis Memorial Scholarship ($1,000), Business Excellence Scholarship ($1,000 for top Social Studies graduate), English Excellence Scholarship ($1,000 for top English graduate), Sciences Excellence Scholarship ($1,000 for top Science graduate), Principal's Scholarship: Canadian Community College Pathway ($1,500 for top graduate entering a Canadian college with at least 80%), Kevin Matthews Memorial Scholarship ($750, three awards), Partner School Scholarship ($1,000 for top graduate from partner schools), Social Studies Excellence Scholarship ($1,000), Math Excellence Scholarship ($1,000), and Fine Arts Excellence Scholarship ($1,000). Continuing Scholarships & Awards include Continuing Top Subject Prize ($300), Integrity in Leadership Scholarship (two awards to non-graduating students), Excellence of Character Scholarship (two awards to non-graduating students), and Compass Group Canada Residence Life Scholarship ($500 to residences). University Entrance Scholarships provide designated scholarships at partner universities (e.g., University of Alberta, University of London School of Pharmacy, Ontario Tech University, University of Waterloo, York University, York University LAS, Brock University, McMaster University, University of Toronto Mississauga, and Western University) with specific award amounts and eligibility criteria.
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