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Metropolitan Preparatory Academy

Canada, Toronto

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees CA$25,560 - 33,700
Ages 12 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 200
Type Co-educational
Opened 1982
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Canadian Curriculum, IB (DP)
Taught languages French, Spanish
Typical class size 15
Strengths STEM, Performing Arts, Outdoor Education
Clubs Arts and Creative, Academic and Intellectual, Leadership and Professional
Stages Middle School, High School
Introduction

Metropolitan Preparatory Academy is a private, co-educational Grades 7–12 program located in central Toronto near Highway 401 and Leslie Street. The school combines the Canadian Curriculum with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, delivered in small classes with close academic mentorship and individualized attention. Distinct signature programs guide student learning: GENIUS, a hands‑on biotechnology and life sciences initiative; SMITH, an arts and humanities focus; Momentum, foundations for middle school; VENTURE, a business, trade and global systems program; and IMPACT, leadership and global citizenship through real‑world projects. Facilities include advanced science and biotechnology laboratories, technology‑rich classrooms, professional arts studios, a gymnasium and weight room, plus dedicated spaces for music, theatre, visual arts, and digital media. Outdoor education features ziplining and white‑water rafting. The school emphasizes strong relationships, no uniforms, and an open‑door policy, fostering a collaborative community where students develop academically and personally for post‑secondary success. Independent study options support diverse student interests.

1 Duncan Mill Rd, North York, ON M3B 1Z2, Canada

The Essentials

Metropolitan Preparatory Academy has 200 pupils, typical class sizes of 15, instruction in English.

Location
1 Duncan Mill Rd, Toronto, Ontario M3B 1Z2. The campus is in Toronto. The school serves Grades 7–12 as a private school.

Stages
Middle School Program (Grades 7–8) and High School Program (Grades 9–12). The IB Diploma Programme is offered and Metro Prep is a Candidate School for the IB Diploma Programme.

Type
Private, co-educational school serving Grades 7–12.

Additional learning support
Small class sizes and individualized attention.
Diving Deeper

House System
The school uses a House Family system with four houses: Connemara House, Dublin House, Galway House, and Kildare House.

Governance and Ownership
Independent institution.
Fees

Annual tuition at Metropolitan Preparatory Academy ranges from CAD 25,560 to CAD 33,700 for 2026/27.

Application fees

- Domestic (general application form): CAD 200 non-refundable application fee, payable with the application.
- International applicants (international admissions information): CAD 300 application fee for international applications.

Registration / acceptance deposit

- A one-time, non-refundable registration/deposit of CAD 2,000 is required upon acceptance to secure a student's place. This deposit is withheld from the tuition balance.

Tuition fees (annual and per-instalment)

- Grades 7–12, Domestic: CAD 25,560 per year. Tuition is typically payable in five instalments; this equals CAD 5,112 per instalment when divided evenly into five payments.
- Grades 7–12, International: CAD 33,700 per year. Tuition is typically payable in five instalments; this equals CAD 6,740 per instalment when divided evenly into five payments.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Deposit: CAD 2,000 non-refundable due on acceptance to secure enrolment.
- Instalments: Tuition is typically billed and paid in five instalments across the school year (the deposit is in addition to these instalments). Instalments are usually scheduled during the first semester and in January of the new calendar year; families should note the school's billing dates and due dates on the invoice. No refunds are provided for withdrawal or dismissal during the billing period, except that special consideration may be given for prolonged medical absences.

Boarding / accommodation (if applicable)

- The school does not provide on-campus boarding; homestay placement is offered as an option for international students. Homestay placement is for an academic year (September to June) unless otherwise arranged.
- Homestay application fee: CAD 500 (non-refundable) for homestay program applications.
- Homestay monthly cost: host-family fees typically range from CAD 1,200 to CAD 1,500 per month; homestay payments are normally made directly to the host family on the first day of each month. (The school's general tuition page lists homestay in the range CAD 1,200–1,300 per month; the homestay placement form lists a typical range of CAD 1,200–1,500 per month.)

Other costs and typical additional fees

- Books and course materials: CAD 300–500 per year (estimated range for required textbooks and materials).
- Gym uniform: Students must purchase and wear the gym uniform for physical education classes (there is no full school uniform requirement, but gym uniform is required). Families should budget separately for the gym uniform.
- Extracurricular activities, specialty program fees, supplies, field trips, and optional services may incur additional charges beyond tuition and are billed separately when applicable.

Refund information

- The school's published policy states that no refunds are provided for withdrawal or dismissal during the billing period. Special consideration for refunds or credits may be given only for prolonged absences due to medical reasons, according to the school's payment policies. Homestay fees already paid to a host family are forfeited if a student leaves the homestay early (students who leave homestay before the end of June forfeit the current and June payments).

Fee payment options and billing contacts

- Application fee payment methods (as stated on the application form): by cheque payable to Metropolitan Prep Academy Inc. or by e-transfer to pay@metroprep.com.
- Homestay fees: paid directly to the host family on the first day of each month as specified in the homestay agreement.
- Billing and tuition-payment arrangements are handled by the school's Billing Department; families may liaise with billing@metroprep.com for invoicing and payment questions.

Summary of key fee figures (2026–2027 academic year)

- Application fee (domestic): CAD 200 (non-refundable).
- Application fee (international): CAD 300.
- Acceptance / registration deposit: CAD 2,000 (non-refundable).
- Tuition, Grades 7–12 (domestic): CAD 25,560 per year (CAD 5,112 per instalment if paid in five instalments).
- Tuition, Grades 7–12 (international): CAD 33,700 per year (CAD 6,740 per instalment if paid in five instalments).
- Books and materials: CAD 300–500 per year.
- Homestay application fee: CAD 500 (non-refundable). Homestay monthly: typically CAD 1,200–1,500 per month; pay host family monthly.

(For billing queries, invoicing schedules, or to arrange specific payment methods, use the school's Billing Department at billing@metroprep.com.)
Academics

Metropolitan Preparatory Academy teaches Canadian Curriculum, IB (DP) for students aged 12 to 18.

Curriculum
Metropolitan Preparatory Academy is a co-educational Grades 7-12 school offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Small class sizes and individualized attention support student learning. Signature programs include GENIUS (Biotechnology & Life Sciences), SMITH (Arts & Humanities), Momentum (Middle School Foundations), VENTURE (Business, Trade & Global Systems), and IMPACT (Leadership & Global Citizenship). The IB Diploma Programme is delivered through small classes and close academic mentorship.

Student Teacher Ratio
Small class sizes and individualized instruction.

Exam Results
Approximately 99% of graduates were admitted to the university or college program of their choice.

Higher Education Progression
Nearly 100% of Metro Prep graduates are admitted to universities, including Harvard University, Yale University, University of Toronto, and McGill University. University guidance covers Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and international destinations.

Gifted and Talented
GENIUS Program is Toronto's first and only high school biotechnology program with hands-on DNA sequencing, PCR and genetic engineering; includes the GeneTalk Speaker Series and hands-on biotechnology labs.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school emphasizes a personal approach with small class sizes and an open-door culture; teachers are accessible and every student is known by name. Individuality is celebrated and diversity of thought is encouraged across disciplines. Well-being, resilience, and creativity are valued as much as grades.

Mental Wellbeing
Well-being is a core value and the environment is structured to be nurturing, fostering involvement, curiosity, and belonging. A diverse and accepting community supports students' mental and emotional growth.

Safeguarding
The school provides a safe and healthy learning environment. Intimidation, harassment, racism, and discrimination are not tolerated. Students are encouraged to seek assistance from school personnel to resolve conflicts. A progressive discipline approach is used for misbehavior, and suspension up to 20 days or expulsion may occur for serious violations.
Parent Experience

History
Wayne McKelvey founded Metropolitan Preparatory Academy in 1982 as a private, semestered, coeducational university preparatory day school for Grades 7–12. The school emphasizes developing the whole student through personal relationships with students and families and operates without uniforms with an open doors policy. Metro Prep is located in central Toronto, close to Highway 401 and Leslie Street. Facilities include a science laboratory, two computer labs, an art room, a cafeteria, a study hall, a gymnasium, and a fully equipped weight/fitness room; outdoor education programs include ziplining and white-water rafting in West Virginia.

Community
Extracurricular activities and trips include service projects in Tanzania and Ecuador and visits to Ottawa, Quebec City, Montreal, Niagara Falls, New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. In addition, clubs such as Robotics Club, Debate Club, Chess Club, and theatrical productions provide opportunities for student engagement.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Metro Prep's facilities include advanced science and biotechnology laboratories, technology-rich classrooms, professional arts studios, and a full gymnasium. The campus supports the GENIUS Program with hands-on work in a professional-grade biotech lab. The SMITH Program provides space for music, theatre, and visual arts, fostering creative exploration. Metro Prep emphasizes a modern, integrated learning environment that encourages collaboration and creativity.

Sports Facilities
Metro Prep features a full gymnasium for indoor activities and competitions. The athletics program offers a broad slate of teams across fall, winter, and spring seasons, including basketball, softball, volleyball, skiing, snowboarding, cross-country, golf, tennis, soccer, and track and field. Lunchtime intramural sports and teacher-student challenges supplement interschool competition.

Academic Facilities
Facilities include advanced science and biotechnology laboratories, technology-rich classrooms, and professional arts studios. These spaces support Metro Prep's GENIUS biotechnology, SMITH arts, and IB Diploma Programme.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Learning extends beyond the classroom with experiential activities such as performing on international stages and outdoor adventures including white-water rafting and spelunking. Students can participate in a range of school clubs, including Art Club, Board Game Club, Business Club, Robotics Club, and Soccer Club.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Metro Prep is a co-educational Grades 7-12 school offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Small class sizes and individualized attention support student growth, and exclusive signature programs include GENIUS, SMITH, IMPACT, and Momentum. GENIUS provides hands-on biotechnology labs with DNA sequencing and genetic engineering; SMITH integrates music, theatre, and visual arts with humanities. IMPACT develops leadership and global citizenship through real-world social ventures, while Momentum emphasizes foundations and character development for middle school.

Arts & Creative
The SMITH Program is Metro Prep's signature arts and humanities program. It offers extensive coursework in Music, Media Arts, Visual Arts, Theatre, and Film. The program emphasizes immersive experiences, world-class productions, and field experiences that connect the arts to broader learning. SMITH aims to prepare students for post-secondary success by blending arts with academics.

Community & Service
The IMPACT Program is Metro Prep's signature initiative in social innovation and leadership. Students may join an existing Impact Cause or create a new one of their own, guided by dedicated mentors who help them develop meaningful, measurable projects. Each student team progresses through the Impact Cycle: Research, Design, Action, and Impact. This hands-on process helps students build confidence, empathy, and leadership. The Impact Showcase gathers families, educators, and community partners to witness student projects and outcomes.

Leadership & Professional
The Impact Program develops leadership, collaboration, and public speaking through real-world projects. Key learning outcomes include leadership through empathy and initiative, collaboration, project management, communication, and global awareness. Each year, students present their initiatives at the Metro Prep Impact Showcase, highlighting leadership and community impact.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Momentum focuses on strong academics and character development that prepare Grades 7–8 students for high-school success. It forms the foundation of Metro Prep's middle school program and supports students as they transition to high school.
Languages

Language Provision
ESL Program equips high school students with essential English language skills and academic knowledge for success in secondary school and university, using Integrated Content ESL Instruction that combines English with academic content. In-class experiences include language labs, computer workshops, and tutoring, with field trips, clubs, and athletics extending language learning beyond the classroom. Language offerings include Core French 11 and Spanish Level 3 in the high school program, developing speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and fostering understanding of diverse French-speaking and Spanish-speaking communities.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Complete the Application. Start by filling out the online application form. Upload the following documents: the most recent report card; year-end reports from the previous two academic years; and birth certificate or passport. Ensure all form fields are completed accurately before submitting, as the information cannot be edited once submitted. A paper PDF application form is available as an alternative.

2. Initial interview. After receiving the completed application and documents, the admissions team will contact you within two business days to schedule an interview. The interview may be conducted in person or online and focuses on your child's academic goals, personality, and compatibility with Metro Prep's learning environment. This is also an opportunity to ask questions.

3. Student Assessment. Grades 7–9: An entrance examination may be required and assesses mathematics, vocabulary, spelling, grammar, and reading comprehension; the test is optional for students who have completed the SSAT. The examination is diagnostic and helps us understand your child's strengths; a score does not define the student. Grades 10–12: Admission is based on current academic records.

4. Admissions Decision. After reviewing the application, documents, test results (if applicable), and the interview, a decision will be communicated. If accepted, families proceed with the next steps to finalize enrollment. The admissions process uses a holistic approach, evaluating academic record, personal qualities, and potential contributions to the Metro Prep community.

Scholarships
Merit-Based Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to personal growth. Scholarship amount: $2,000. Eligibility: Open to first-year, new students only; current or previously enrolled students are not eligible. Application requirements: latest report cards or transcripts; two letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, or mentors; and a 500-word personal statement explaining how the student will contribute to the Metro Prep community and benefit from the personalized learning environment.

Need-Based Financial Awards are available to families who require financial assistance, up to 30% of tuition. Eligibility: Open to first-year, new students only; families must demonstrate financial need. Application requirements: most recent tax return and financial statements; a 500-word personal statement detailing how Metro Prep's values align with the family's goals and how the financial assistance will help the student thrive.

How to Apply for Financial Aid: Download the First-Year Scholarship Program Application Form and submit the completed form and all required documents within 14 days of the date printed on the acceptance letter. Submission methods include email (admissions@metroprep.com), mail to Admissions Office, or in person at the main office. Important deadlines: application deadline is within 14 days of acceptance; notification within 30 days after receipt of the application. Limited availability of scholarships and financial aid: funding is limited and awards are not guaranteed, determined by merit, need, and resource availability, with possible first-come, first-served allocation. For questions, contact admissions at admissions@metroprep.com or +1 (416) 285-0870.
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