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Columbia Academy

Canada, Vancouver

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees CA$16,800 - 24,000
Ages 5 - 18 years
Type Co-educational
Opened 2014
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Canadian Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)
Taught languages French, Mandarin
Typical class size 15
Strengths Academic Enrichment, Performing Arts, Service and Sustainability
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School, High School
Introduction

Columbia Academy is a K–12 school in downtown Vancouver, with the Elementary Campus at 792 Beatty Street and the High School Campus at 602 West Hastings Street. It delivers the British Columbia Ministry of Education curriculum and is AP-certified, with an AP test center offering courses such as AP Statistics, AP World History, AP Calculus, AP Psychology, AP Chemistry, and AP United States History. The school serves ages 5 to 18 and emphasizes small class sizes, personalized university planning, and university pathway. A distinctive program is the BC-certified Happiness Course, derived from a Harvard initiative. Facilities at the High School campus include a Large Dance Studio, a Large Dining Hall, an Outdoor Plaza, a Music Room, and a Library, plus a First Aid Room. Co-curriculars include math competitions, volunteering, and after-school tutoring at no extra cost; clubs cover music, dance, art, debate, coding, and more. A volunteer culture underpins events.

Yaletown Campus (Elementary, K–7): 792 Beatty Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M1; Coal Harbour Campus (Middle & High School, Grades 8–12): 602 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1P2

The Essentials

Columbia Academy has typical class sizes of 15, instruction in English.

Location
Two campuses in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia: the Elementary School (K–7) at 792 Beatty Street in Yaletown and the High School (8–12) at 602 West Hastings Street in Coal Harbour. The downtown campuses are near BC Place and are accessible by SkyTrain, Waterfront Station connections, and downtown bus routes.

Stages
Kindergarten to Grade 12 (Elementary School K–7; High School 8–12).

Type
Private, independent school offering Kindergarten through Grade 12; accredited by the BC Ministry of Education.

School day structure
School day runs 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Elementary drop-off begins at 8:00 AM and pick-up is at 5:30 PM.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
Homestay is available for international students. Host families provide a furnished bedroom and three meals per day.

Uniform Requirement
The school has a uniform policy. All students must wear the school uniform. If uniforms are not ready before the new semester, female students wear white shirts and black skirts with black formal shoes, and male students wear white shirts and black pants with black formal shoes.

Food Options
Food is provided through the Homestay program; host families provide three meals per day.

Governance and Ownership
The school is an independent private school. It is accredited by the BC Ministry of Education.
Fees

Annual tuition at Columbia Academy ranges from CAD 16,800 to CAD 24,000 for 2026/27.

Application fees

- Domestic (K–12): CAD 200 one-time, non-refundable.
- International (K–12): CAD 300 one-time, non-refundable.

Tuition fees by school year (annual and per term / semester)

- High School (Grades 8–12):
- Domestic full‑time annual tuition: CAD 16,800 per academic year. Per semester (two semesters per year): CAD 8,400.
- International full‑time annual tuition: CAD 22,800 per academic year. Per semester (two semesters per year): CAD 11,400. The full‑time program covers up to 8 courses per year (4 courses per semester). Extra courses are charged separately.

- Elementary / Junior School (Kindergarten–Grade 7):
- Domestic full‑time annual tuition (2025/26 fee schedule): CAD 20,000 per academic year. Where fees are billed by term/semester, the per‑term amount is one half of the annual tuition (CAD 10,000 per semester).
- International full‑time annual tuition (2025/26 fee schedule): CAD 24,000 per academic year. Per semester (if billed by semester): CAD 12,000.

Student service / activities / supplies fees and other recurring charges

- High School student service fee: CAD 1,000 per year (covers textbooks, technology, school supplies, most events, competition preparation, extra tutoring hours, clubs and after‑school activities).
- Elementary activities and school supplies fee: CAD 1,000 per year (covers textbooks, technology, supplies, and most school events). After‑school care for K–G2: CAD 1,000 annual flat fee or CAD 20 per day drop‑in rate.
- Graduation fee (Grade 12): CAD 200 (one‑time, charged in the year the student enters Grade 12).
- Uniform: Mandatory; typical one‑time uniform purchase ranges between CAD 400 and CAD 500.
- Textbook / book fee or optional fees (where applied): historically there have been one‑time book or materials charges; specific programs or lost/ damaged materials may incur additional charges.

Homestay / boarding arrangements (where applicable)

- Columbia Academy does not operate on‑campus boarding; a homestay placement service is provided for international students.
- Homestay application fee: CAD 400 (one‑time).
- Homestay placement fee (first month): CAD 200.
- Homestay monthly fee (host family): typically CAD 1,600–CAD 2,000 per month for the first month (amount varies by location and host family).

Billing schedule and payment terms

- The school operates on an academic calendar with terms/semesters; the high‑school program is structured as two semesters per year (4 courses per semester). Tuition figures above are annual; per‑semester splits follow the two‑semester structure (half of the annual fee per semester).
- For a student's first two terms, payment of all fees and tuition is due before the first day of classes. After the first two terms, tuition and fees for a returning term are due no less than 60 calendar days before the start of that term. Tuition balances may not be transferred between terms. Late payment incurs a surcharge (example: 5%) or may result in removal from classes.
- Additional charges may be applied for damage to school property, unreturned textbooks or supplies, extra courses, or other program‑specific items.

Refund information

- Full prepaid tuition is refunded only if an international student fails to obtain a Study Permit (visa refusal), subject to an administration fee of CAD 500 deducted from the refund. Refund requests require an official refusal letter from Immigration and a Refund Request form; the school may require notarized documentation. ─ For other withdrawal timing: half (1/2) of prepaid tuition is refundable if the student withdraws prior to the program start; one‑third (1/3) of prepaid tuition is refundable if the student withdraws within 15 days after the program starts. Prepaid tuition is not refundable for expulsions under the school's Code of Conduct.

Other one‑time or occasional fees

- Application fees (see above).
- Homestay application, placement and first‑month fees (see homestay section).
- Charges for extra courses beyond the standard full‑time load.
- Possible medical/private insurance costs for international students for the initial months in Canada (the school assists with private coverage during the first three months; after that students may enroll in the B.C. Medical Services Plan where eligible).

Fee payment options

- Accepted payment types include: cheque; pre‑authorized debit; credit card; wire transfer; money order or bank draft; online banking payments. Cash is not accepted. The school accepts payments from major Canadian banks and credit unions.

Notes on billing mechanics and incidental items

- Where fees are shown as annual figures above, standard practice at Columbia Academy is to treat the academic year as two semesters for billing and course‑load calculations; per‑semester amounts are therefore half the annual figure for full‑time programs unless a specific schedule or invoice states otherwise. Extra or optional services may be invoiced separately and due according to the school's invoice terms.
Academics

Columbia Academy teaches Canadian Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP) for students aged 5 to 18.

Curriculum
Columbia Academy offers a K–12 program in downtown Vancouver, accredited by the BC Ministry of Education. The Elementary School serves grades K–7 and the High School serves grades 8–12. The BC curriculum underpins the program, and Columbia Academy is AP-certified with an AP test center. The school emphasizes small class sizes and a broad range of co-curriculars, including math competitions, clubs, volunteering, and after-school tutoring. The school also provides personalized university planning to support students in gaining admission to top universities.

Student Teacher Ratio
Small class sizes enable personalized attention from teachers.

Higher Education Progression
100% of graduates have been accepted by universities, with 90% entering the world's Top 50 universities; personalized university planning helps students reach their dream university.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The School has a BC-certified Happiness Course adapted from Harvard University. WeLove Club teaches students how to build and maintain healthy relationships with self and others, and a student-led Helping Club encourages acts of kindness. All students volunteer in the community, developing happiness, compassion, integrity, resilience and responsibility within a supportive environment.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
ESL (English as a Second Language) prepares students for BC Dogwood courses.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental Health is included among Club Activities, and the Happiness Course supports well-being and a positive mindset through school programs and activities.

Safeguarding
All students are safe, respected and accepted in a healthy educational environment.
Parent Experience

History
Founded in 2014 in downtown Vancouver, Columbia Academy is an independent K–12 school. It is accredited by the British Columbia Ministry of Education. The program emphasizes volunteer work, charitable activities, and extracurricular clubs and competitions. The Happiness Course is BC-certified and derives from a Harvard University program. Elementary School (Downtown Vancouver – Yaletown Campus): 792 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M1; High School (Downtown Vancouver – Coal Harbour Campus): 602 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1P2.

Community
Columbia Academy hosts a variety of events including a summer cruise, Whistler trip, Christmas party, talent show, International Cultural Day, Halloween party, and fundraising projects for local charities. The school provides volunteering opportunities in local charities. Club activities include music, dance, art, basketball, meditation, yoga, cooking, debate, school newsletter, math competition, computer coding, and mental health initiatives. The mission emphasizes safety, respect, and empathy within a caring learning community.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The high school campus is located at 602 West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver. The facilities include a Large Dance Studio for dance courses and activities, a Large Dining Hall, and an Outdoor Plaza for recreation and gatherings. A Music Room and a Library support arts education and independent study, while a First Aid Room serves student health needs. Nearby professional sports facilities are located near the school, providing opportunities for athletics and gym-related activities.

Sports Facilities
Large Dance Studio provides space for physical training, yoga, dance, and martial arts. Outdoor Plaza provides space for outdoor activities such as skipping rope, physical training, and badminton. Nearby professional sports facilities include multiple basketball, soccer, and tennis courts around the school. The school organizes two major sports events annually, and after the second period each day, a 15-minute group exercise session is held to promote fitness.

Academic Facilities
Library offers rich library resources supporting reading and research. Music Room offers space for music learning and practice, equipped with instruments and equipment.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Club Activities include Music, Dance, Art, Basketball, Meditation, Yoga, Cooking, Debate, School Newsletter, Math Competition, Computer Coding, Mental Health, and more. Volunteering opportunities are available in local charities. After-school tutoring is offered at no extra cost. The school also hosts a variety of events and activities that foster student engagement, such as a talent show and cultural days.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Columbia Academy offers a rigorous K–12 program aligned with BC Ministry of Education standards. It is a certified AP school and AP test center, with AP courses including AP Statistics, AP World History, AP Calculus, AP Psychology, AP Chemistry, and AP United States History. The school provides competitive opportunities in national and international mathematics, writing, and public speaking competitions, with weekly Math Competition Club sessions. English proficiency is emphasized through daily writing and reading, and regular exams and assessments monitor progress.

Arts & Creative
Art and Music are integral to the program. In grades 8–12, students learn to play two instruments (such as ukulele, guitar, and piano) and receive vocal training with choir opportunities. Dance and performance courses are offered, and charity performances provide platforms for artistic expression and philanthropy. In elementary grades (K–7), Art & Music are highlighted as part of after-school activities.

Cultural & Language
The school hosts cultural activities, including field trips to cultural events and an Annual International Cultural Festival. International Culture Day is celebrated as part of the school's cultural programming. Student clubs and events also support cultural learning, debates, and cross-cultural collaboration. The offerings foster intercultural experiences through clubs and events such as the International Culture Day and annual celebrations.

Social & Hobbies
Students may join a wide range of student-created clubs, including business clubs, outdoor activity clubs, basketball clubs, charity clubs, mutual aid clubs, environmental clubs, dance clubs, drama clubs, and music clubs. Teachers establish clubs such as debate clubs, volunteer clubs, math competition clubs, guitar clubs, psychological counseling clubs, and meditation clubs. The school also arranges seasonal events and field trips to enhance social and recreational experiences, including sports days, ski trips, and cultural outings.

Community & Service
Columbia Academy places a strong emphasis on volunteerism, with the Senior School volunteering at over 40 events each year and dedicated teachers arranging opportunities for students. Students participate in large-scale volunteer activities in Vancouver, such as Canada Day celebrations, the Vancouver Marathon, the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, the Vancouver International Children's Festival, and charity and community events. These experiences are complemented by charity performances and ongoing charitable work coordinated through the school's programs.

Leadership & Professional
Leadership and teamwork are fostered through clubs and competitions, with teacher-led and student-created groups such as debate clubs and volunteer clubs. The Middle School program emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, helping students develop leadership and teamwork skills. The school also offers an Official AP program and a pathway-focused curriculum, plus personalized university planning to guide students toward top universities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Wellbeing is supported through a range of sports and fitness activities, including annual sports events, skiing trips to Cypress Mountain, and sports days. The school offers Fitness and Meditation clubs to promote physical and mental wellbeing, along with a variety of healthy, extracurricular experiences. Fun school events such as a summer cruise, Whistler trip, Christmas party, talent show, International Cultural Day, Halloween party, and fundraising projects contribute to a balanced school life.
Languages

Language Provision
French and Mandarin classes begin in Kindergarten. The tri-lingual model uses English, French, and Mandarin across the elementary program.

Bilingual Teaching
French and Mandarin are taught from Kindergarten. Students learn English, French, and Mandarin in a tri-lingual program integrated with daily literacy and classroom activities.

Immersion Programs
Daily Mandarin sessions are part of the curriculum. Students move between English, French, and Mandarin throughout the day in structured language blocks.
Reputation

Awards
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Accreditations
The school is accredited by the BC Ministry of Education.
Admissions

Admissions
Step 1: Submission of the application package. Submitting the application package begins the admissions process. This is the first step in Columbia Academy's admissions sequence. Step 2 is Interviews. Step 2: Interviews. Interviews are conducted as part of the admissions process. This stage follows the submission of the application package. The interview precedes the final acceptance decision. Step 3 is Acceptance. Step 3: Acceptance. Acceptance is the final step of the admissions process. An acceptance decision marks admission to Columbia Academy. Admitted students may proceed with enrollment. The admissions process is concluded with acceptance.

Scholarships
Principal's Scholarship: The Principal's Scholarship is offered to full-time students every semester. Eligibility requires active involvement in community work and a passion for volunteering; an average across all courses above 85% (conditions may apply); a positive attitude; and being a role model for others. To apply, submit a letter describing achievements along with two teacher recommendations. The deadline is the last day of the current semester. Dedication Award: Current Columbia Academy students with a 100% attendance record and never being late are automatically eligible for a Dedication Award.
School Events
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