Keystone School and McDonald International Academy are both in Toronto, about 1 km apart. Both schools offer Canadian programmes. Keystone School also offers IB, and McDonald International Academy also offers Advanced Placement (AP). Published annual fees are CA$22,850 at Keystone School and CA$400 - 24,000 at McDonald International Academy, which puts Keystone School roughly 87% higher. Keystone School takes pupils from 11 to 18, and McDonald International Academy from 14 to 18. McDonald International Academy is the larger school, with around 230 pupils to Keystone School's 100. Typical class sizes are 10 at Keystone School and 15 at McDonald International Academy.
Located in the University District of Toronto at 186 St. George Street. The campus is 20 metres from the St. George subway station. Proximity to the University of Toronto provides access to a university campus atmosphere and opportunities for higher education exposure.
Location
Downtown Campus, 920 Yonge Street, 2nd Floor, Toronto, ON M4W 3C7, Canada. Located in the heart of Toronto at the Yonge/Bloor intersection, near the Toronto Reference Library and the University of Toronto. Accessible by public transport, with a bus stop a 1-minute walk away and the subway about a 5-minute walk away.
Stages
Stages
Middle School (Grades 6-8); High School (Grades 9-12)
Stages
Secondary (Grade 9–12) under the Ontario education system; University Preparation/High School Program included.
School type
School type
IB Candidate School
School type
Private international secondary school; fully registered and accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Mentorship Program
Additional learning support
ESL Program; IELTS Prep; University Preparation/High School Program (Grade 9-12).
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
Canada
Country affiliation
Canada
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation
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School day structure
School day structure
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School day structure
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Bus service details
Bus service details
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Bus service details
Bus access nearby; Downtown campus is a 1-minute walk from a bus stop and a 5-minute walk from the subway.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application and Registration
- Application fee: CAD 300.00 (one-time, payable at the time of application). - Registration (enrolment) fee: CAD 2,800.00 (one-time, payable on acceptance).
Tuition and Annual Mandatory School Fees (2025–26 academic year)
- Tuition (standard day student / international student rate): CAD 20,250.00 per academic year. - Resource fees: CAD 750.00 per academic year. - Activity fees: CAD 500.00 per academic year.
Fees charged as one-off or per-item (mandatory / common)
- Gym kit (required for PE/field trips): CAD 325.00 (reusable across years). - Middle school camp trip: CAD 500.00 to CAD 750.00 (range depending on trip). - High school camp trip: CAD 600.00 to CAD 850.00 (range depending on trip).
Optional / Additional costs
- Hot lunch program: approximately CAD 200.00 per month. - Yearly international study trip (optional): typically CAD 5,000.00 or more depending on destination and program. - Yearly trip to French Canada (optional): CAD 500.00.
Boarding / Homestay / Residence (international students)
- Homestay (single room with internet and three meals per day): CAD 15,700.00 for the 10-month school year (September–June). - Student residence options: available for inquiry; fees vary by option (contact admissions for current residence pricing).
International-student specific fees
- Health insurance (international students): CAD 750.00 per year (mandatory). - Custodianship (for students under 18): CAD 1,000.00 (non-refundable). - Student visa processing fee (school's processing): CAD 1,250.00 (does not include fees payable directly to immigration authorities).
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Annual billing: tuition and annual fees are stated per academic year. Instalment plans are offered; families must contact the school to arrange payment plans or instalments. Late-payment penalties apply. - Late-payment interest: 1.5% per month (equivalent to 18% per annum) on overdue amounts for the 2025–26 fee schedule. - Responsibility for payment: parents/guardians are responsible for all charges for the full academic year; unpaid accounts may result in restriction from classes and withholding of records/transcripts until accounts are settled.
Refunds and non-refundable items
- Application and registration fees are non-refundable. - Custodianship and certain administrative/service fees are non-refundable. - Visa refusal refund (international students): when a study permit is refused by the immigration authority, a full tuition refund (less any non-refundable items listed by the school) is granted provided the school is notified in writing within the time frame specified by the school and a copy of the official refusal letter is provided. Specific refund procedures and time limits apply.
Sibling discount and concessions
- Sibling discount: a 10% reduction in tuition fees applies to the second sibling (and subsequent siblings) enrolled and attending at the same time; the discount applies to the lesser of the full year's tuition and is applied to tuition only (not to other fees).
Accepted payment methods and payment channels
- International bank transfers and multi-currency payment support are available via the school's PayMyTuition payment partner; this service supports payments from banks in many countries and currencies. - Payment plans and instalment arrangements are available through the school's finance office; families can also use standard banking/wire transfer methods as coordinated through PayMyTuition or the school's finance office.
Other important financial notes
- Homestay fees are quoted for the 10-month school year (September–June); additional charges may apply for special dietary needs. - Optional trip costs and extracurricular charges are billed separately and vary by program and destination. - Outstanding balances can affect a student's continued enrolment and release of academic documents.
- International students: CAD 24,000 per academic year (covers 8 credits). Per-credit rate: CAD 3,000 per credit. - Canadian citizens / Permanent Residents: CAD 17,600 per academic year (covers 8 credits). Per-credit rate: CAD 2,200 per credit. - Each additional credit beyond the included 8 credits is charged at the per-credit rate indicated above. - Textbooks: approximately CAD 300 per semester (partially refundable). - To determine fees for any specific term, multiply the per-credit rate by the number of credits taken that term; the annual figure covers a full 8-credit academic year.
- Activity Fee: CAD 400 (one year). - Health Insurance: CAD 600 (one year; mandatory for international students). - Airport pickup: CAD 100 (one trip). - IELTS training: CAD 3,000. - AP Courses: CAD 3,600 (per AP program as listed). - Textbooks noted above are approximately CAD 300 per semester and described as partially refundable.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Overseas (international) students must pay fees in full to be eligible for acceptance; the Application Fee and Tuition Fee must accompany the submitted application. - Upon receipt and confirmation of full payment of the Application Fee and Tuition Fee, an official Letter of Acceptance will be issued. - Accepted payment methods include cash, cheque, Visa, Mastercard, money order, wire transfer, and email money transfer (EMT). Specific bank account details are provided for bank transfer and EMT payment instructions. - Payment receipts will be issued after payment is received and must be sent to the admissions office as instructed in the tuition request.
Refund information
- Refund for failed visa/passport issuance: If a new student is unable to obtain a valid study visa or passport to enter Canada, a full refund of tuition fees will be issued less the non-refundable registration/application fee of CAD 200, subject to submission of the required documentation. - Documentation required for refunds includes a written refund request signed by the student, proof of visa rejection from the relevant Canadian diplomatic mission or proof of passport application/extension rejection from local government, and all original documents and receipts issued by the school. - No refund if student is granted a visa and then decides not to attend. - If a student's visa application is refused, a refund will not be issued if a refund application is not made within 15 months after the student has been admitted to the program.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
Homestay accommodation with Canadian host families is available; host families can house one or more Keystone students, typically 2–3 per homestay. A senior-year residence option, Parkside Student Residence (must be 16+), is available for students who have completed at least one year in a homestay. Parkside offers shared and private bedrooms with a full dining program; fees range from CAD 1,425 to CAD 2,630 per month, and meal plans are mandatory at an additional cost. A support network for homestay students includes international program staff, a homestay coordinator, host families, and a custodian who regularly checks on safety and wellbeing.
Boarding arrangements
Residence and homestay placements for international students.
Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
Parkside Student Residence provides a full dining program.
Food options
A cafeteria on campus.
House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The leadership includes Doa Demirsu, Co-founder and Director, and Rachel Shiderman, Principal.
Governance and ownership
Fully registered and accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Keystone School offers the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) through the Flexible OSSD Homeschool Program. The program is fully accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education and enables the OSSD to be earned from anywhere in the world. Courses are asynchronous with about 110 hours of learning material across 3–5 units, and final grades consist of 70% coursework and 30% final assessments. The program provides Grades 9–12 with university preparation and a dedicated University Pathways framework, with academic guidance to support course selection and university applications. Gifted and Advanced Learners are among the targeted student groups. Keystone is pursuing International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme candidacy, with an IB Preparation and IBDP pathway announced for the 2026–2027 academic year.
Curriculum details
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) program for grades 9–12, developed according to the Ontario Ministry of Education. Graduates receive the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Credits are recognized by American and Canadian universities and colleges. The program is a four-year course of study; the Ontario Student Transcript (OST) and Ontario School Record (OSR) document student achievement.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
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Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
Keystone supports higher education through University Pathways and university partnerships that assist international applicants, including language-requirement waivers and scholarships. In 2024 Keystone graduates entered programs at universities in Canada and abroad, including University of Toronto, McMaster, McGill, Western, York University, Dalhousie, Ontario Tech University, Rutgers, University of Arizona, and others.
Higher education progression
85% of graduates are admitted to top 100 universities worldwide, and college admission is guaranteed. Since inception, over 20,000 graduates have entered universities and colleges in Canada and around the world.
Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
Gifted and Advanced Learners are included among Keystone's target student groups in the OSSD Homeschool Program.
Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
Keystone School's Mentorship Program pairs every student with a dedicated mentor who provides personalized guidance beyond the classroom. Mentors meet regularly to encourage students, discuss academics, school life, and personal development goals, boosting self-esteem and confidence. These interactions strengthen relationships among parents, teachers, and peers, creating a supportive school community. The program offers a safe space to discuss challenges and aspirations, helping students develop a positive attitude toward learning. It emphasizes holistic development and equips students with resilience and life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and time management. Peer-based mentoring for older students reinforces a culture of support and leadership.
Social & emotional learning
MIA maintains a vibrant academic and social community with clubs and field trips that help students build friendships and engage with Canadian culture. Total Care provides care beyond the classroom, including guidance on university applications and ongoing post-graduation support. Student Life offers extensive social and academic opportunities that support students' well-being and personal growth. The environment emphasizes safety as part of learning, reflecting a family-like atmosphere created by teachers and staff.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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English as an additional language
English as an additional language
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English as an additional language
The ESL program is open to all age groups and begins with an English assessment on arrival to place students into Level 1 (Beginner) through Level 5 (Advanced). The Intensive ESL program provides 6 hours daily (4 hours ESL Fundamentals in the morning) with elective classes in the afternoon. The Semi-Intensive program offers 4 hours daily of ESL study with a morning ESL Fundamentals class and some self-study. Elective classes include Grammar and Writing, Conversation and Listening, and TOEFL Preparation. IELTS preparation is available as a separate 110-hour course taught by qualified instructors.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Keystone provides a supportive community where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. The Mentorship Program contributes to emotional well-being by fostering resilience, empathy, communication, and independence. It offers skill-building workshops on study strategies, stress management, and leadership to support mental well-being and positive attitudes toward learning. The mentorship framework strengthens relationships among students, families, and staff, contributing to a sense of belonging. The overall approach emphasizes holistic development to help students navigate challenges and reach their potential.
Mental wellbeing
Safety and well-being are integral to learning; the school emphasizes a family-like environment created by teachers and staff. Student Life offers clubs and activities that support social and emotional development and a sense of belonging. Total Care and the emphasis on learning and safety reflect the school's commitment to student well-being.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is supported through the Homestay & Student Residence program. Students stay with Canadian host families during their studies in Toronto. Keystone provides a wide support network including international program staff, a homestay coordinator, the host family, and a custodian, who check in on personal safety and wellbeing regularly. Homestay families undergo a rigorous selection process with extensive background checks, including criminal record checks and references. The program aims to ensure a safe, secure, and supportive living environment for international students.
Safeguarding
Safety is prioritized, with learning and safety presented as core commitments of MIA. Total Care includes safety-focused support and a family-like atmosphere. Residence and Homestay placement provides housing support for international students.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
Keystone School is located at 186 St. George Street in Toronto's Annex, a short walk from the University of Toronto. The private co‑ed campus offers a supportive, family‑like environment with small class sizes and a project‑based learning approach. The school sits in downtown Toronto, providing access to the city's cultural, educational, and professional resources. The campus is in the University District, just steps from the St. George Subway Station, enabling easy access to the surrounding academic ecosystem. Keystone emphasizes active participation and real‑world connections in teaching to develop 21st‑century skills.
Facilities overview
Downtown Toronto campus features a computer lab, a music and audio-visual lab, a fitness studio, a cafeteria, and a student lounge. Modern facilities include computer labs, Wi-Fi, and smart boards. The Downtown Campus is located at 920 Yonge Street, 2nd Floor, Toronto, ON M4W 3C7. Facilities support both academic work and student life.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
Fitness studio is part of the facilities.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
Middle school instruction includes English, Science, Math, Social Studies, French, Physical Education, Visual Arts and Drama. The curriculum uses inquiry‑based learning with teachers as facilitators, and field experiences connect theory to real‑world contexts. The program emphasizes an enhanced curriculum and balanced education with collaborative projects, leadership opportunities, and regular field trips. In high school, Keystone runs two semesters per year with 80‑minute classes and four credits per semester, emphasizing project‑based learning and guidance from Academic Coordinators; Keystone is an International Baccalaureate candidate school offering academic guidance and university pathways.
Academic facilities
Computer labs, a music and audio-visual lab, Wi-Fi, and smart boards are available on campus.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Keystone offers a vibrant set of clubs and committees, including Robotics Club, Creative Club, Athletic Club, Debate Club, Environmental Club, French Club, Video Editing Club, Martial Arts Club, Yoga/Meditation Club, Zumba Club, and Anime Club. Committees include Student Council, Yearbook Committee, Graduation Committee, and Student Ambassador Program. The school also hosts events and competitions such as the Waterloo Math Competition for interested students.
Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities and field trips are offered; there are clubs and student life events.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Keystone School is a private, co-ed international school located at 186 St. George Street in Toronto's Annex. Doa Demirsu-Doran is a co-founder and director of Keystone School. Rachel Shiderman is the Principal. Keystone is an International Baccalaureate candidate school, reflecting its global, inquiry-based approach. Its mission emphasizes compassionate leadership, diversity, and global engagement through inquiry, academic excellence, and service.
History
Established in 1994, McDonald International Academy (MIA) is a fully registered and accredited secondary school inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education. Since its inception, more than 20,000 graduates from over 50 countries worldwide have successfully entered top universities and colleges in Canada and around the world. MIA is a vibrant academic and social community with modern facilities and a collaborative effort from teachers and students.
Community
Community
The Keystone Collective provides updates on school events, academic programs, extracurriculars, student achievements, and teacher highlights, highlighting Keystone's community focus. Keystone life includes after-school clubs, local partnerships, and city-based learning experiences that connect classroom concepts to the real world. Keystone hosts a guest speaker series bringing professionals, alumni, and community leaders to campus to inspire students. The school acknowledges Indigenous traditional territory and commits to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice within its community.
Community
MIA's active school community is buzzing with social and academic opportunities throughout the year. Events and activities help students get to know each other, build friendships, and familiarize themselves with Canadian culture. A wide range of clubs nurtures students' interests and supports the prerequisites for university or college applications.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
Keystone offers a middle school curriculum built around inquiry-based, project-based learning. Students study English, Science, Math, Social Studies (History and Geography), French, Physical Education, Visual Arts and Drama as part of a broad preparation for high school. Inquiry-based learning is central, with teachers acting as facilitators and opportunities to connect learning to real-world contexts. The middle school program emphasizes collaboration, leadership, and holistic growth, including regular field trips.
Academic & intellectual
The University Preparation Program/High School Program (Grade 9-12) is developed according to the requirements of the Ontario Ministry of Education. Our graduates will receive the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) after the program. The four-year program follows the Ontario curriculum designed to prepare students for post-secondary studies in Canada, the United States and around the world. Credits earned are recognized by American and Canadian universities and colleges.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Creative Club offers hands-on art workshops after school, including drawing, painting, printmaking, photography and digital tools. Video Editing Club gives students hands-on experience curating, filming and editing videos. Anime Club brings students together to enjoy and discuss anime, manga and related culture. French Club provides opportunities to develop language skills and explore French culture.
Arts & creative
The Arts is offered as a course within the curriculum.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
French Club offers opportunities to develop language skills and explore French culture. Keystone is an IB Candidate School, focusing on international-mindedness and an interdisciplinary global perspective. The school draws students from 20+ countries, reflecting a diverse international community. The school reports an average class size of 12, supporting more individualized attention.
Cultural & language
International Languages is offered as a course. IELTS Preparation and ESL programs are available to support English proficiency. The Summer Program includes English instruction and exposes students to Canadian culture through activities and excursions.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Robotics Club provides hands-on STEM activities and collaborates with STEM Works and university partners. Debate Club and Athletic Club offer opportunities for public speaking and fitness. Video Editing Club showcases student work on the school's social channels. Committees such as the Student Council, Yearbook Committee, Graduation Committee and the Student Ambassador Program lead events, welcome new students, and shape school life.
Social & hobbies
Student Life includes field trips and a wide range of clubs and social activities. Events and activities foster community and give students opportunities to engage with Canadian culture outside the classroom.
Community & service
Community & service
Environmental Club supports EcoSchools initiatives and promotes environmental awareness. Meatless Monday, Waste-free Lunch and recycling projects are part of sustainability efforts. Student-led committees organize events that benefit the Keystone community and broader audiences.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Leadership opportunities exist in the classroom and through student organizations and leadership roles. The Student Council, Yearbook Committee, Graduation Committee and Student Ambassadors organize school events and represent peers. Ambassadors welcome new students and model professional communication and collaboration. Model United Nations and EcoSchools programs foster advocacy and teamwork.
Leadership & professional
Guidance and Career Education is offered as a course to support career planning. The Advanced Placement Program provides college-level courses for Grade 12 students, connecting them to college success by taking AP classes while in high school.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Athletic Club promotes fitness and an active lifestyle. Yoga/Meditation Club provides mindfulness and stress management through guided practices. Zumba Club combines dance and exercise to promote energy and wellbeing. Martial Arts Club teaches self-discipline and physical fitness.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Health and Physical Education is offered as part of the curriculum. Total Care provides ongoing support beyond the classroom, including guidance on university applications and post-graduation planning. Learning beyond the classroom is encouraged through field trips and a range of activities that support student well-being.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English language support is available for international students.
Language provision
English language learning is supported through ESL and IELTS Preparation programs; Summer Camp includes English language skills development (oral communication, reading and writing).
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
Ranked TOP50 Best Private School in Canada by Hong Kong and the Canadian Government.
Accreditations
Accreditations
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Accreditations
Fully registered and accredited secondary school inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Keystone School is a fully accredited Canadian independent private school for grades 6 to 12. The admissions process is designed to ensure a good fit and to support families at every step. Step 1: Book a School Tour to visit the campus, meet the Principal, see classrooms and facilities, and learn about the school's educational approach. Step 2: Submit an online application, including a copy of the student's ID (passport or birth certificate) and the most recent transcript or report cards from the last three years. Step 3: Schedule a Student Meeting with the Principal or an Academic Director to discuss the student's interests, goals, and learning style. Step 4: Classroom Visit may be offered, giving the student a half-day in class to meet future classmates and experience lessons. Step 5: Offer of Admission is issued, including academic placement information, tuition and fee details, and an acceptance deadline.
Admissions
1. Fill out the online registration form. The form collects student information and program interests. Email the most recent scanned report cards/transcripts starting from grade 9 and a copy of the passport to the admissions team. The admissions team reviews the submission and, if approved, issues the first Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and the Tuition Request Letter within 3–4 business days by e-mail.
2. Pay the tuition fees and the application fee according to the Tuition Request details. Email the payment receipt to the admissions office. Upon receipt of full payment, the office issues a receipt and the official Letter of Acceptance. The official LOA can be used to apply for a Canadian study permit.
3. For international students, apply for a Government of Canada study permit using McDonald International Academy's official Letter of Acceptance. Processing times vary by country. The LOA is required to support the permit application. Applicants should coordinate with the school to ensure all documents are in order.
4. Upon approval and receipt of the study permit, inform MIA to arrange airport pickup and accommodation. MIA coordinates housing arrangements, including residence or homestay placements. The arrival process is supported by the Admissions and International Support teams, with additional assistance from overseas offices in Beijing, China and Lagos, Nigeria.
Scholarships
Scholarships
The school offers four merit-based scholarships: Academic Excellence, Arts & Innovation, Leadership & Community Engagement, and the International Student Merit Scholarship. Each scholarship is valued at 5,000 toward tuition and only one scholarship is available per student. Who can apply: All students applying for admission to Keystone School. Application materials include a 500–1,000 word scholarship essay or portfolio and the Keystone School application form. Application timeline for the 2026–2027 academic year includes three rounds: First Round submissions due by November 1, 2025; notification by November 14, 2025; enrolment deadline to secure the scholarship by December 15, 2025. Second Round submissions due by December 12, 2025; notification by December 19, 2025; enrolment deadline January 23, 2025. Third Round submissions due by February 23, 2026; notification by February 27, 2026; enrolment deadline March 13, 2026. Submission materials needed: a 500–1,000 word scholarship essay, three years of transcripts, and a copy of the student's ID. Submit Scholarship Application. Need-Based Assistance is available through Apple Financial for families needing additional support.
