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Columbia International College

Canada, Toronto

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees CA$42,650 - 60,950
Ages 12 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 1800
Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Opened 1979
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Canadian Curriculum
Taught languages English, French
Typical class size 20
Strengths Sport, Visual and Creative Arts, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Community and Service
Stages Middle School, Secondary School, High School
Introduction

Columbia International College (CIC) is a private Canadian boarding high school for students aged 12 to 18, delivering the Canadian curriculum across Grades 7–12. The school operates the Total Care Education System, supporting students in four areas: learning, development, living, and communication. CIC serves students from over 100 countries and is accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education. The campus includes five residences (Oak Hall and Arkledun Hall for boys; Linden Hall, Pine Hall, and Pine Girls for girls), multiple cafeterias, and a Living Wall Lounge with a Study and Tutoring Centre. Facilities span an indoor pool, gym, squash courts, dance studio, games room, and outdoor BBQ terraces. Academic offerings include ESL and Learning Support, University Preparatory courses, and University Placement Office support with Dual Admissions. A broad range of clubs covers arts and film, leadership, service, and cultural activities, alongside university pathways through diagnostic assessments and a Success Plan.

1003 Main St W, Hamilton, ON L8S 4P3, Canada

The Essentials

Columbia International College has 1,800 pupils, typical class sizes of 20, instruction in English.

Location
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Hamilton is a big city with a small-town heart and is centrally located about an hour from Toronto and Niagara Falls. Columbia International College enriches the city with students from more than 70 countries.

Stages
Grade 7–12

Type
Private boarding high school

Pupil Nationality Mix
Students come from more than 70 countries.

Additional learning support
ESL courses (Monthly ESL) are available to prepare students for CIC courses.

Country affiliation
Canada

Bus service
Door-to-door school bus service from residences to school
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
Total Care Living® comprises five residence buildings with separate housing for boys and girls. The boys residences are Arkledun Hall, Oak Hall, and Pine Hall Boys; the girls residences are Linden Hall and Pine Hall Girls. Residences are open year‑round and food services run 365 days a year; door‑to‑door bus service connects residences to the school; after‑school and evening activities are provided in residence with staff tutors available.

Uniform Requirement
The CIC Uniform Policy requires students to wear CIC uniform items (Oxford blue shirt, blazer, and optional vest or navy crew neck/fleece; tie optional; CIC polo; and CIC uniform pants). Socks must be all black and above the ankle; footwear must be all black with no logos and with soles not exceeding 2 inches. There are seasonal variations (May–October and October–May) for the mandatory uniform; uniform items may be purchased at the campus store.

Food Options
Meals are provided by Chartwells on campus, with three on‑site eateries: World Fusion at the Living Wall, The Grill at the Cafe, and Spice Corner at Oak Hall. The plan includes 26 meals per week, year‑round cafeterias, and accommodations for allergies or dietary needs (halal, kosher, vegetarian, lactose‑free).

House System
Total Care Living® houses students across five residence buildings (Arkledun Hall, Oak Hall, Pine Hall Boys, Linden Hall, Pine Hall Girls); separate housing is provided for boys and girls with associated facilities and amenities, including on‑site dining, residence life activities, and bus service to the school.

Governance and Ownership
The school is registered with the Ontario Ministry of Education (school number 880183) and accredited by the MOE, and operates under the Total Care Education® framework.
Fees

Annual tuition at Columbia International College ranges from CAD 42,650 to CAD 60,950 for 2026/27.

Application and enrolment fees
- Application Fee: CAD 300.
- Custodian documentation: CAD 300.

Total Care+ (TCP) and refundable deposit
- Total Care+ Program (priority care for students under 16 at the start of a semester): CAD 1,100 per semester.
- Security deposit (one‑time, refundable at move‑out to cover damages/repairs): CAD 1,000.

Tuition fees (Grades 9–12) — per course and by intake
- Per course (International students): CAD 3,400 per course.
- Per course (Canadian students): CAD 2,550 per course.

- Aug–May (10 months) — typical full academic intake (8 courses example):
- Tuition (8 courses example): CAD 27,200.
- Residence (flat rate for the 10‑month intake): CAD 11,000.
- Meal plan (up to 26 meals per week, 10 months): CAD 13,000.
- Internet / Tech fee: CAD 500.
- Leadership activity fee: CAD 300.
- Uniform package: CAD 650.
- Example total (8 courses, residence, meal plan, listed standard fees): CAD 52,650.

- Jan–Jun (6 months Fast‑Track Pre‑U program) — shorter intensive intake (6 courses example):
- Tuition (6 courses example): CAD 20,400.
- Residence (flat rate for this 6‑month intake): CAD 6,600.
- Meal plan (up to 26 meals per week): CAD 7,800.
- Internet / Tech fee: CAD 375.
- Leadership activity fee: CAD 225.
- Uniform package: CAD 650.
- Example total (6 courses, residence, meal plan, listed standard fees): CAD 36,050.

Personalized and recurring fees
- Student Health Insurance (mandatory for international students): fees by duration — 1 month: CAD 150; 5 months: CAD 750; 6 months: CAD 900; 7–12 months: CAD 1,000.
- Student Sundry Account (preloaded account for textbooks, additional uniform, laundry, taxis, trips, replacement ID/fobs, etc.): CAD 2,000 (unused balance is fully refundable).
- School bus transportation & discounted Hamilton city bus pass (10 months): Residence students CAD 1,500; shorter intake CAD 900. All students living off‑campus must purchase a breakfast & lunch plan (CAD 1,500); non‑residence meal package shown as CAD 5,500 (selected fee details).

Billing schedule and payment terms (summary of how fees are presented and key terms)
- Fees are published by intake/duration: the school lists standard fee packages for the two common academic patterns: Aug–May (10 months) and Jan–Jun (6 months fast‑track). Examples above follow those two billing periods.
- One‑time refundable security deposit is collected and refunded at residence move‑out (subject to deductions for damages). The application fee (CAD 300) is not refundable. Student Sundry Account unused balance is refundable.
- Exchange rate and online payment terms: international online payment portals lock the exchange rate for 72 hours; wire transfers and foreign‑currency receipts are converted at the Bank of Canada cash rate on the day funds are received.

Boarding / residence fees
- Residence flat rate (Aug–May, 10 months): CAD 11,000.
- Residence flat rate (Jan–Jun, 6 months fast‑track): CAD 6,600.
- Meal plan (residence, 10 months): CAD 13,000 (26 meals per week; meal service available year‑round). These residence and meal plan amounts are included in the example totals above.

Other costs
- Uniform package (standard set): CAD 650.
- Internet / Tech fee: CAD 500 (10‑month intake) or CAD 375 (6‑month intake).
- Leadership activity fee: CAD 300 (10‑month intake) or CAD 225 (6‑month intake).
- Personalized/one‑off fees shown in the fee schedules are included in the totals above.

Refund information and conditions
- If a Canadian Study Permit (Study Permit) is refused by IRCC, a full tuition fee refund is granted less an administration fee of CAD 500; to obtain this refund the student must provide the IRCC refusal letter. The application fee (CAD 300) is not refundable.
- There is no refund of tuition in listed circumstances including: during the application of a Study Permit (except where the Study Permit is refused by IRCC as noted above); if the student withdraws for reasons other than Study Permit refusal; after registration at the school for disciplinary dismissal or expulsion; or where medical conditions were not disclosed or are discovered upon arrival and CIC is unable to provide adequate medical attention.
- The student sundry account unused balance and the refundable security deposit (subject to deductions) will be returned where applicable.

Discounts and reductions
- Sibling discount (Grade 9–12 enrolled at the same time): 25% discount on tuition for the first sibling to graduate during the period both are enrolled.
- Family discount (to enroll later after a sibling graduated): 10% discount on tuition for subsequent siblings.
- Discounts are not cumulative and apply only to international students who hold a Canadian Study Permit, per the published policy.

Fee payment options (accepted methods)
- Online international payment portals: CIBC International Student Pay (portal) and Convera / Western Union GlobalPay (online payment in many currencies; options include bank transfer, credit/debit card, and eWallet). These services offer competitive FX rates and lock the quoted exchange rate for 72 hours.
- Money order or cheque (processed on campus or mailed to Accounts Receivable at 1003 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4P3).
- International wire transfer information is available upon request (email: invoice.inquiry@cic-totalcare.com).
- For online platforms, some card and eWallet options are available through the provider platforms; the institution's published exchange‑rate policy applies.

Notes on presentation of figures
- All figures above are shown in Canadian dollars (CAD) and follow the school's published 2026–2027 fee schedule for the standard Grade 9–12 intakes and selected fee items. The schedule distinguishes the two common intake periods (Aug–May and Jan–Jun) and shows tuition charged per course (CAD 3,400 per course for international students).
Academics

Columbia International College teaches Canadian Curriculum for students aged 12 to 18.

Curriculum
The school offers courses across Arts, Business Studies, Computer Studies, Languages, English, Physical Education, Co-operative Education, Mathematics, Science, and Social Sciences and Humanities for Grades 7–12. Support Classes include ESL and Learning Support; University Preparatory courses are available, and the University Placement Office assistance and Dual Admissions are accessible to help with university admissions.

Higher Education Progression
The University Partners program includes more than 10 university partners, with major partners such as the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, McMaster University, York University and Western University; university admission staff are assigned to work with CIC's University Placement Office, and information sessions are held by more than 35 universities from Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. CIC graduates are eligible for English proficiency exemptions at several partner universities, and scholarships are available through partner institutions; CIC also offers pathways such as Elite Pathway with University of Toronto.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school has a Total Care Education System designed to nurture international students in four areas essential to growth and achievement: Total Care Learning, Total Care Development, Total Care Living, and Total Care Communication. This framework supports social and emotional development through experiential learning, character education, and leadership opportunities.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The ESL Program offers five levels from Beginners to Advanced and provides up to 33 hours of ESL instruction per week, with small classes of 15–20 students. It includes TOEFL training, serves as an official TOEFL iBT test centre (and MELAB centre), and uses diagnostic testing at orientation to place students in appropriate classes. ESL courses are offered with six start dates (January, March, June, July, August, October) and can run in 4-week or 8-week blocks.

Mental Wellbeing
The school emphasizes holistic student wellbeing as part of TOTAL CARE, supporting students academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Residential life and student programming include after-school activities and leadership opportunities, with on-site wellness features (e.g., Wellness Station) and staff-supervised tutoring to support wellbeing in and around the residence.

Safeguarding
Staff promote awareness of bullying and harassment, healthy living, and ethical global conduct as part of the school's safeguarding and character-education initiatives within the Total Care Education System.
Parent Experience

History
Founded in 1979, Columbia International College is Canada's largest boarding school. For more than 40 years CIC has accelerated student success through the Total Care Education System. The Total Care Education System nurtures international students in four areas essential to their growth: Total Care Learning, Total Care Development, Total Care Living, and Total Care Communication. The school serves students from over 100 countries and is accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education.

Community
The school fosters a caring community under the Total Care Education System, focusing on student well-being, health, safety and success. Be Under Our Caring Wings expresses CIC's commitment to care, including Total Care Communication, 24/7 Around the Clock Care, and The JOURNEY of Success. A global student body and experiential learning opportunities—such as leadership training and community service—support a vibrant campus life. Student Life showcases programs and events that illustrate CIC's active, inclusive community.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus operates five residences: Oak Hall and Arkledun Hall for boys, and Linden Hall, Pine Hall, and Pine Girls for girls. Four cafeterias serve the campus and residences, with the residence cafeteria open 365 days a year. Meals are prepared on-site with dining spaces across campus and in residences, in partnership with Chartwells. The Living Wall Lounge houses the Study and Tutoring Centre, and study rooms are available on each residence floor. Recreational facilities vary by residence and include squash courts, an indoor gym, an indoor swimming pool, a games room, ping-pong tables, basketball courts, a dance studio, and an outdoor BBQ terrace.

Sports Facilities
On-site facilities include squash courts, a games room, TV room, an indoor gymnasium, an indoor swimming pool, ping-pong tables, basketball courts, and a dance studio. Recreational spaces such as outdoor BBQ terraces are available, with facilities varying by residence. Each residence provides lounges and study rooms, plus internet access and climate control to support activity and downtime.

Academic Facilities
Academic support is available through a Study and Tutoring Centre located in the Living Wall Lounge, with rooms for individual and group study on campus. In-residence study rooms are provided on each floor, and there is a formal after-school homework period supported by staff. Online tutoring is available through the e-Tutor platform, with tutoring resources and help available at various times throughout the day.

Extra Curricular Facilities
The CIC Dining Experience includes a Culinary Classroom with modern kitchen facilities for nutrition classes and cooking clubs. Dining events feature a variety of cooking activities, including nutritious cooking classes, a pop-up sushi bar, outdoor BBQ events, and food trucks, with meals and cuisine from around the world.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
From Grade 7 through Ontario Secondary School Graduation, the Total Care Education System addresses academic, social, emotional, and physical needs and prepares students for university. Total Care Learning balances in-class learning, individual study, and experiential learning to maximize academic potential. A diagnostic assessment process, one-on-one counselling, and a Personal Success Plan tailor courses to each student's path, with extensive university placement support and partnerships guiding graduates toward admission to top universities.

Arts & Creative
There are Art Clubs, including painting, polymer clay, origami, Glee, Improv, acting, collage making, film making, and other creative pursuits, complemented by international film and media activities. Students can participate in Sciences and other clubs that foster creativity and collaborative projects. After-school clubs and student-led projects provide ongoing opportunities to explore visual arts, performance, and film.

Cultural & Language
Total Care Communication offers a single point of contact for families with dedicated liaison staff and support in regional languages, helping parents communicate with school departments. An online ASEP Tracker and EZ Report Card keep families connected to a student's Academic, Social, Emotional, and Physical progress. Multilingual liaison support and translated communications facilitate ongoing, transparent family involvement.

Social & Hobbies
A diverse social experience is built into CIC life through sports, clubs, volunteering, community service, events, and leadership coaching. Students participate in a wide range of events, trips, and extracurricular activities, including athletics and cultural programs. Clubs span arts, science, media, and beyond, contributing to a well-rounded social experience inside and outside the classroom.

Community & Service
Community service opportunities and service prefect roles are integral to student life, with leadership training and participation in clubs that support charitable work. Students can engage in community service teams, service-prefect roles, and local volunteering as part of their development. Regular events, trips, and service projects foster a sense of civic responsibility and community involvement.

Leadership & Professional
Leadership training is embedded in the Total Care model, with roles such as Residence Life Prefects, Community Service Prefects, and School Leadership Teams. Activities include Model United Nations, diverse student councils, and Duke of Edinburgh Award participation, all designed to develop communication, teamwork and project leadership. The Bark Lake leadership program and other experiential experiences further prepare students for university and professional life.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Total Care Living provides a home-away-from-home on campus with a safe, comfortable living environment and on-site health support. Nurses visit residences daily, there is an in-residence clinic, and 24/7 security and residence staff ensure safety. Nutritious meals are served on-site, with up to four meals a day and dietary options to meet religious or cultural needs. For younger students, special care is available with dedicated staff and custodianship arrangements, along with orientation, transportation between school and residences, and wellness resources.
Languages

Language Provision
The school teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) to support non-native speakers and help them adjust to the school environment and academic work. New arrivals are placed into English/ESL courses based on their level (e.g., ENG1D/ESLDO or ENG2D/ESLEO) to build foundational English and transition to academic English. Multilingual staff provide translation support to assist students and families with communication as needed.
Reputation

Accreditations
Columbia International College is registered with school number 880183 and accredited by the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Programs and initial requirements. The school offers High School (Grades 9-12), ESL Program, and ESL Summer Camp Program. Applicants must obtain a Student Authorization Permit from the Canadian Embassy or Consulate in their home country (or outside Canada) before arriving to study in Canada. This ensures proper entry and eligibility to study at CIC. 2. Flexible admission dates and personalized pathway. CIC offers six admission dates throughout the year to fit the student's timeline. The admissions process is personalized to meet each student's needs. Students can begin studying as soon as they complete the current academic term or year in their home country, avoiding long waiting periods. This approach can help students complete their studies faster and enter the university of their choice sooner. 3. Fees. A breakdown of tuition fees is provided for international and domestic students. Fees are described in the Student Fees section to help families plan financially. 4. Apply Online. Apply Online is available to start the admissions process. The page highlights six admission dates and an online application option. Applicants should submit the online application to initiate the process. 5. Placement Tests. All new students take diagnostic placement tests before registering for courses to assess skills and place them appropriately. Placement tests help determine course placement and credit recognition. 6. Awards & Scholarships. Awards & Scholarships are offered; to qualify, all credits must be taken within 12 consecutive months. The program includes a range of merit-based and leadership awards as part of CIC's offerings.

Scholarships
Awards & Scholarships overview. All awards and scholarships are given by CIC. To qualify, all credits must be taken within 12 consecutive months. The following are examples of CIC scholarships and awards: Governor General's Medal (awarded to the graduating student with the highest academic average in the best six 4U courses; recipient receives a Governor General's medal); Head Prefect Award (certificate for Residence and school head prefects); Columbia Leadership Awards (awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding leadership; recipients are selected by staff and a panel); Lieutenant Governor's Volunteer Award (recognizes an exemplary volunteer among graduating students); Residence Council Leadership Award (awarded to a student who has made a significant contribution to residence life); Ontario Scholars (designated for graduates with an 80% average in six 4U credits). The Columbia Scholarship Endowment Fund includes multiple named scholarships, such as Principal's Scholarship: University Pathway (three $1,500 awards to top 4U graduates meeting minimum averages), Clement Chan Founders' Merit Scholarship (three $1,500 awards), Jim Lawlis Memorial Scholarship ($1,000), Business Excellence Scholarship ($1,000 for top Social Studies graduate), English Excellence Scholarship ($1,000 for top English graduate), Sciences Excellence Scholarship ($1,000 for top Science graduate), Principal's Scholarship: Canadian Community College Pathway ($1,500 for top graduate entering a Canadian college with at least 80%), Kevin Matthews Memorial Scholarship ($750, three awards), Partner School Scholarship ($1,000 for top graduate from partner schools), Social Studies Excellence Scholarship ($1,000), Math Excellence Scholarship ($1,000), and Fine Arts Excellence Scholarship ($1,000). Continuing Scholarships & Awards include Continuing Top Subject Prize ($300), Integrity in Leadership Scholarship (two awards to non-graduating students), Excellence of Character Scholarship (two awards to non-graduating students), and Compass Group Canada Residence Life Scholarship ($500 to residences). University Entrance Scholarships provide designated scholarships at partner universities (e.g., University of Alberta, University of London School of Pharmacy, Ontario Tech University, University of Waterloo, York University, York University LAS, Brock University, McMaster University, University of Toronto Mississauga, and Western University) with specific award amounts and eligibility criteria.
School Events
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