Keystone School vs Upper Canada College

	K Keystone School Toronto, Canada	U Upper Canada College Toronto, Canada
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year CA$22,850	Fees / year CA$138 - 48,720
Age range	Age range 11 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Online/Hybrid	Type Boys School, Boys School (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum Canadian Curriculum, IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Canadian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 100	Pupils 1,280
Typical class size	Typical class size 10	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened 1829
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 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 Toronto, Ontario, Canada. UCC is located on 35 acres of green space in midtown Toronto. The main campus address is 200 Lonsdale Road, Toronto, Ontario M4V 1W6. The closest intersection is Avenue Road and St. Clair Avenue, with the campus served by TTC bus routes #13 and #142 and stops at the south and east campus gates; the closest subway is Davisville Station.
Stages	Stages Middle School (Grades 6-8); High School (Grades 9-12)	Stages Junior Kindergarten through Year 12
School type	School type IB Candidate School	School type Independent day school for boys; IB World School
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Mentorship Program	Additional learning support Wernham West Centre for Learning offers targeted, individualized support for Prep and Upper School; four mandates guide its work: identify each student's learning profile; provide individualized learning support; offer professional development for faculty; and connect with external networks.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Canada	Country affiliation Canada
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure The After School Program provides supervised care from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., with a snack, homework assistance and a range of clubs and activities.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Bus service is provided via TTC routes #13 and #142, with stops at the south and east campus gates; the closest subway is Davisville Station.
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.	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - Application fee (new students): CAD 200 if submitted on or before November 1; CAD 300 if submitted after November 1 (boarding follows the same schedule). - Initial Registration Fee (new students): Day students CAD 10,000; Boarding students CAD 7,500. This fee is one-time and non-refundable. - Financial-assistance application fee (third-party assessment): CAD 137.50 (paid to the assessment provider). Annual Tuition — Day students (2026–27) - Junior Kindergarten–Year 5: CAD 44,940 (annual). - Year 6–Year 10: CAD 46,730 (annual). - Year 11–Year 12: CAD 48,720 (annual). Annual Tuition — Boarding students (2026–27) - Domestic boarding (Canadian passport required): - Years 8–10: CAD 81,280 (annual). - Years 11–12: CAD 83,270 (annual). - International boarding (non-Canadian citizens): - Years 8–10: CAD 87,580 (annual). - Years 11–12: CAD 89,570 (annual). Billing schedule and payment terms (standard billing and common payment plans) - Registration and deposits: - New Day students: online registration must be completed and the Initial Registration Fee (CAD 10,000) plus the first instalment required to complete registration. - New Boarding students: online registration must be completed within 7 calendar days of an offer; the Initial Registration Fee (CAD 7,500) and the first instalment of tuition and boarding fees must be forwarded within 7 calendar days of the offer. - Standard payment plans (examples of the formats used): - Plan A — Term instalments: initial deposit followed by two instalments (typical due dates: one mid-year and one later in the year). For Day students the initial deposit is CAD 2,000; remaining tuition is split into two payments. Monthly statements are issued and amounts must be paid by the last banking day of the month to avoid interest. - Plan B — Monthly instalments: initial deposit (Day students CAD 2,000) followed by 11 monthly automatic debits. New families will be asked to provide banking information for pre-authorized withdrawals. - Plan C — Early payment: full payment by the early-payment deadline in order to receive an early-payment discount (payment must be made in full by the stated deadline). - Typical instalment examples calculated from the published 2026–27 annual tuition figures (amounts shown are the instalment values a family would be billed under Plan A or Plan B for Day students): - JK–Year 5 (annual CAD 44,940): - Plan A (term-style): CAD 2,000 deposit, then two instalments of CAD 21,470 and CAD 21,470. - Plan B (monthly): CAD 2,000 deposit, then 11 monthly payments of approximately CAD 3,903.64. - Year 6–10 (annual CAD 46,730): - Plan A: CAD 2,000 deposit, then two instalments of CAD 22,365 and CAD 22,365. - Plan B: CAD 2,000 deposit, then 11 monthly payments of approximately CAD 4,066.36. - Year 11–12 (annual CAD 48,720): - Plan A: CAD 2,000 deposit, then two instalments of CAD 23,360 and CAD 23,360. - Plan B: CAD 2,000 deposit, then 11 monthly payments of approximately CAD 4,247.27. - Boarding instalment examples (registration fee separate): for boarding families the Initial Registration Fee is CAD 7,500; many boarding accounts are invoiced in two instalments across the year. Approximate splits of annual boarding tuition (examples): - Domestic Years 8–10 (annual CAD 81,280): two instalments of approximately CAD 40,640 and CAD 40,640. - Domestic Years 11–12 (annual CAD 83,270): two instalments of approximately CAD 41,635 and CAD 41,635. - International Years 8–10 (annual CAD 87,580): two instalments of approximately CAD 43,790 and CAD 43,790. - International Years 11–12 (annual CAD 89,570): two instalments of approximately CAD 44,785 and CAD 44,785. - Billing, statements and late payments: - Monthly statements of account are prepared and emailed to families. Payments may be made by online bill payment using major Canadian financial institutions; families should use the student ID number as the account number. Payments must be received and negotiable by the last banking day of the month to avoid interest charges. The late payment interest rate is 1.5% per month (18% per annum). The College reserves the right to restrict re-enrollment or access to records for accounts more than 30 days overdue. Boarding-specific fees and common additional boarding costs - Initial Registration Fee for new boarding students: CAD 7,500 (non-refundable). - Guardianship program (for international students without a local guardian): CAD 1,500 annual. - Health insurance (where applicable and billed when the school provides coverage): approximately CAD 1,200 annual for boarding students. - Boarding families should budget for discretionary personal costs such as dry cleaning, local transit and pocket money; these are not included in boarding tuition. Other costs and typical incidental charges - Uniform: - First-year uniform purchase (estimate): CAD 750–850. - Annual replacement/ongoing uniform costs: approximately CAD 300 per year. - Textbooks and school supplies: - Books (Years 8–12): approximately CAD 800–1,200 per year depending on year level. - School supplies: approximately CAD 300 per year. - Meal plan (optional/where applicable): around CAD 1,600–1,850 per year (may be billed over terms). - Tuition Refund Insurance (optional): premiums are charged as a percentage or fixed rate depending on the program and coverage; example premium rates and fees are shown on the financial materials and are billed to accounts if selected (example premiums in prior materials: CAD 350–380 for day and CAD 650 for boarding; the plan premium is typically shown as a small percentage of fees when selected). - Co-curricular and activity charges (examples): athletic tournament costs, travel, team fees, music festivals, equipment rental, private music lessons, academic support and other event-specific charges; typical ranges appear in the school's financial handbook (examples: athletic tournaments CAD 400; team travel CAD 100–1,700 depending on distance; private music instruction CAD 44 per half hour; academic support CAD 85 per hour). Incidental charges are billed only where applicable. - Transcripts/courier fees and other administrative charges may be billed when required (examples listed: CAD 35 local to CAD 75 international). Refunds, withdrawal and tuition-refund arrangements - The Initial Registration Fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. Families should expect the annual tuition obligation to be in effect for the full academic year; fees are not billed on a term-by-term basis. Specific forfeiture rules apply if a student withdraws before the academic year begins or after specified dates. Typical provisions include forfeiture of portions of paid instalments if withdrawal occurs between specified dates; if withdrawal occurs on or after the start of the academic year, all tuition and boarding fees are due and will not be refunded. Tuition Refund Insurance is offered as an optional insurance product to protect against the financial consequences of withdrawal for covered reasons; premiums are charged on enrollment in the plan and are not refundable. Accepted payment methods and instructions - Online bill payment through major Canadian banks (use the student's ID number as the account number). - Automatic monthly pre-authorized debits (for families on the monthly instalment plan). - Third-party credit-card payment provider (Plastiq) may be used for one-off payments (subject to third-party terms). - Cheque payments: payable to Upper Canada College and mailed to the Finance Office (address provided on account statements). - Wire transfers from financial institutions outside Canada: wire instructions, including bank name, account number and SWIFT code, are provided by the College for families who choose to pay by international bank transfer; families should include the student name and ID number in payment details. Important account terms - Registrations are not complete until the required registration fee and initial instalment are received. Payments must be negotiable by the last banking day of the month to avoid interest charges. The College reserves rights to withhold access to classes, activities, transcripts and re-enrollment for accounts not paid in accordance with agreed schedules. Interest on overdue balances is applied at 1.5% per month (18% per year). (End of fee overview.)
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 Boarding begins in Year 8; main entry years 9–11; Year 12 is not admitted. The boarding program houses about 86 students from Ontario, other Canadian provinces and more than 18 countries. The boarding program has existed since 1829.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement Uniforms include a crested blazer; 2–3 grey flannel pants; 2–3 khaki, beige or tan cotton pants; Gym T-shirts; UCC navy crested golf shirts; House and school ties; and a crested sweater or fleece. All uniform items can be purchased online.
Food options	Food options Parkside Student Residence provides a full dining program.	Food options Boarders have breakfast, lunch and dinner during the school week; weekends include brunch and dinner at designated times. When dining is closed, the milk and toast room provides light meals and the cafeteria is open during the school day.
House system	House system —	House system Upper School has 10 Houses, each with a Head and its own tie. Day students belong to Bremner's, Howard's, Jackson's, Martland's, McHugh's, Mowbray's, Orr's and Scadding's; boarders belong to Seaton's and Wedd's.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The leadership includes Doa Demirsu, Co-founder and Director, and Rachel Shiderman, Principal.	Governance and ownership The Board of Governors (15 members) establishes policy and oversees finances; eight are appointed for four-year terms, three are elected by the UCC Association for three-year terms, and four are ex-officio; the Principal reports to the Board and the President of the UCC Foundation attends all meetings. The UCC Foundation is a separate, independent entity that manages the College's endowment, and the Association Council represents Old Boys, parents, governors and staff.
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 The school has the IB Continuum: Primary Years Programme JK to Year 5; Middle Years Programme Year 6 to Year 10; Diploma Programme Year 11 to Year 12. The Diploma Programme has been offered for more than 20 years. In September 2024, two Graduation Pathways complemented the IB Diploma Programme. The Middle Years Programme includes eight subject groups, taught with a focus on inquiry and through the lens of key concepts and global contexts, and Sustained learning in more than one language. The IB Programmes focus on developing independent, globally minded learners with skills such as critical thinking and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
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 Graduates earn IB and Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) diplomas and gain admission to top-tier universities around the world, with many receiving scholarships and university credit for advanced courses.
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 —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
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 Safety and wellbeing are the highest priorities. Horizons provides tutoring and mentoring across Years 8–12, fostering empathy, respect and community through eight‑week programs and school partnerships. Service and service‑learning help boys understand their identities and contributions to the world.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) The Wernham West Centre for Learning offers targeted, customized support with a tiered approach to learning challenges. In the Prep School, lessons include time management and study and organizational strategies; in the Upper School, the focus is on independent learning with emphasis on note‑taking, deep reading and exam‑preparation support. Four mandates guide the Centre: identify each student's learning style and develop strategies for success; provide individualized learning support; provide professional development and support for faculty and be a resource to parents and the community; connect with other schools and organizations to collaborate and build networks.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language —	English as an additional language There is no English Language Learning program; language support is provided through the Wernham West Centre for Learning.
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 wellbeing are the highest priorities. Two health centres are staffed with nurses, a psychologist and counsellors to support students.
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 The College has a Policy and Procedures for Preventing, Identifying and Investigating Harassment, Abuse and Violence, and employees are trained in standards and boundaries for working with children.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
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 The UCC campus covers 35 acres of green space in midtown Toronto. The extensive facilities include a double-pad arena with NHL- and Olympic-sized rinks, a fitness complex, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a recital hall, a theatre, film and computer labs, music studios with professional recording equipment, and state-of-the-art science labs. The William P. Wilder Arena & Sports Complex and the Oval provide NHL- and Olympic-sized ice surfaces and a 400-metre track. Design and learning spaces include Atkins Design Lab, Holmes Project Lab and Hixon Family Design Lab, plus Harkness Tables and prep classrooms. Wilder and Macintosh Libraries support the academic program with print and digital resources.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities The facilities support 19 sports and 85 interscholastic teams. They include two indoor hockey arenas (NHL and Olympic), a SAS Fitness Centre with a full-time trainer, two indoor tennis courts, four outdoor tennis courts, a baseball diamond, four softball diamonds, six soccer fields, a cricket field, four basketball/volleyball courts, eight badminton courts, a sports injury clinic, a football/lacrosse/rugby artificial turf field, an indoor pool, and a 400-metre all-weather track.
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 The Wernham West Centre for Learning is an innovative and unique learning-support resource that provides targeted and customized support for every learner. At the Preparatory School level, students receive lessons in time management and study strategies; at the Upper School, the focus is on independence, note-taking, deep reading and exam preparation. The Centre supports faculty through professional development and connects with other schools and organizations. Wilder Library offers print and digital resources, in-library volumes and access to online catalogs; Macintosh Library serves the Upper School with a curated collection and databases, including the Heintzman Music Library Collection, and supports research with a range of resources. The libraries program emphasizes collaboration with faculty, collection development, and service to the UCC community. State-of-the-art labs and design spaces, including Atkins Design Lab, Holmes Project Lab and Hixon Family Design Lab, support hands-on learning across subjects.
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 The Experiences beyond the classroom include sport teams such as Cross Country, Badminton, Baseball, Basketball, Cricket, Field Hockey, Football, Golf, Hockey, Lacrosse, Rugby, Soccer, Softball, Squash, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, and Volleyball. Prep co-curriculars include community service initiatives, morning programs, student ambassadors, debating, prep times Yearbook, Fall Play, Spring Musical, Sprouts/Prep Green Team, Eco-Ambassadors, and music ensembles like Choir and Concert and Jazz Band. Prep after-school programs offer activities including chess, robotics, cooking, drawing, photography, and space club. Upper School clubs exceed 60 active groups, including Art & Architecture, Debating, Engineering, Model UN, Outdoors, Robotics, and World Affairs Conference, plus music ensembles such as Blue Notes, String Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble.
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 Upper Canada College was founded in 1829 by Sir John Colborne, the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada. It was created as a feeder school for King's College (later the University of Toronto) and was modelled after the public schools of Britain. It is one of the earliest institutions for secondary education in Ontario, with traditions dating back nearly two centuries. These roots reflect UCC's longstanding role in Canadian education.
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 The College organizes programs, events and initiatives to keep the community connected to the College and to one another. The World Affairs Conference is North America's largest and Canada's oldest annual student-run current events conference. Other events include the Founder's Dinner, Coxford Lecture and Norval Maple Madness Open House.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association Association Council represents the interests of Old Boys, parents, members of the Board of Governors and the UCC Foundation, faculty and staff, and other community members with demonstrated interest in the College. The Council is a governing body with 21 elected council members and eight ex-officio members. Officers include the President, Vice-President(s), Secretary, Executive Director and Managing Director. The Council meets three times per year in addition to its annual general meeting, held in October.
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 Prep Co-Curriculars include Community Service Initiatives, Morning Greeters, Morning Announcements, and Student Ambassadors, along with Colour House Captains and Debating. The Prep program also offers Fall Play, Spring Musical, Sprouts/Prep Green Team and Eco-Ambassadors/Warriors. Upper School Clubs total more than 60 active clubs, including Debating, Model UN, DECA, Engineering, International Languages, Investment, Mathematics Society and Robotics. These clubs provide opportunities for academic enrichment, competitions and leadership roles.
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 Prep School Music Ensembles include Choir, Concert and Jazz Band, Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble. Prep After-School Programs include Chess, Cooking, Drawing/Comic Books Club, Public Speaking, Robotics, Photography and Space Club. Prep School theatre is represented by Fall Play and Spring Musical. Upper School Music Ensembles include Blue Notes, String Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble, plus Intermediate and Junior Stage Bands.
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 Upper School Clubs include International Languages. World Affairs Conference is North America's largest and Canada's oldest annual student-run current events conference. Language and global affairs activities are available through these clubs, fostering cross-cultural understanding and engagement with international topics.
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 Upper School Clubs include Break Dancing, Chess, Cooking, Creative Writing, Debating, DECA, Engineering, Outdoors, Robotics and more. Prep After-School Programs include Chess, Public Speaking, Robotics, Photography, Space Club and other hands-on pursuits. A wide range of recreational activities and hobby groups supplement regular academics, with numerous clubs and programs available after school. Athletics-related after-school options include multi-sport and individual activities aligned with the school's broad sports program.
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 Prep Co-Curriculars include Community Service Initiatives. Horizons is listed as a Student Life program. Norval Outdoor School is an integral part of learning at UCC, offering outdoor education at a 450-acre site outside Toronto and hosting community open-house events as part of campus life.
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 Student Ambassadors are part of Prep Co-Curriculars, and Colour House Captains provide leadership roles. Upper School Clubs include Debating, Model UN and DECA, which offer leadership development and professional-skill opportunities. Additional leadership pathways exist through other clubs such as Investment and Public Speaking within the Upper 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 UCC offers 19 different sports and 45 interscholastic teams. A broad athletic program includes Cross Country, Football, Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Basketball, and many more. Norval Outdoor School is a 450-acre nature reserve outside Toronto and a core part of outdoor education, with Weeks of wilderness learning by Year 9. The After School Program features activities like Badminton, Ball Hockey, Baseball, Basketball, Chess, Photography, and Space Club, among others.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English language support is available for international students.	Language provision —
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations IB World School (Continuum) — Offers the full IB continuum (Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme).
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 Step 1 — Submit an application. To start your application for 2026 entry, the candidate must log in to or create a UCC application account. The candidate's legal name should match the birth certificate or passport. Only the candidate's parents may create the account; agents wishing to submit on behalf of a family should contact the Office of Admission before creating an account. Day student applications for the 2026–27 academic year are closed; Boarding applications are open. The school invites families to submit an inquiry to receive updates and register for events; for the 2026 intake, apply by November 1, 2025 and applications are accepted until December 1, 2025; the application fee is $200 until November 1, 2025 and $300 from November 2 to December 1, 2025.
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.	Scholarships Lang National Scholarship — An opportunity for exceptional Canadian scholar-athletes to access a fully funded UCC boarding experience. What is it? A merit-based boarding scholarship and a direct-entry pathway to the Lang Scholar Program, which includes leadership training and conferences, guest speakers, alumni mentorship and service projects. Who should apply? Exceptional Canadian students with a strong academic record, varsity-level skills in two sports, impeccable character, leadership potential and service orientation (Grade 9 to 11). What does it cover? UCC tuition and boarding fees, including housing and meals, university counselling and health centre services; incidentals such as flights home at major breaks and unique athletic needs. How do I apply? Complete the UCC boarding application and indicate interest in the Lang National Scholarship. Merit-based entrance scholarships — The school offers merit-based entrance scholarships to top applicants, awarded automatically to those who demonstrate high academic achievement, co-curricular experience or potential, and strong character. Financial assistance is also available on the basis of family need, with the Financial Assistance Review Committee (FARC) and partner organizations determining awards. Financial assistance — The school provides about $6 million in financial assistance each year and operates a needs-based admission process. Application for financial assistance is separate from admission; eligible Year 5 and above families are encouraged to apply. The process uses Apple Financial Services and Financial Aid for Canadian Students (FACS); the FARC makes the final award decisions, and most assistance is need-based, with merit-based entrance scholarships offered to top applicants. New student financial assistance applications must be completed by December 31 (and for returning students by November 14).
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
	View full profile →	View full profile →