Programs & School Boards
Advanced Placement (AP)
Homeschool
Metro Continuing Education
Scholarships
What Programs are Available in Edmonton?
Arts
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Language Immersion Programs
Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)
Research
Sports
Volunteering
What School Boards are Available in Edmonton?
Edmonton Public School Board (EPSB)
EPSB is Edmonton’s largest public school district. It admits any student in Edmonton and follows a catchment area system, but if room is available, most schools accept students from outside the specified area. EPSB offers a secular (non-religious) educational environment, and has many programs available such as academics (AP, IB, etc), language (most schools offer at least one additional language class or immersion program), sports and arts. EPSB has some costs associated, usually for supplies (specific to classes) or field-trips. Many costs are covered partially or fully by the school. Most EPSB schools also have mental health support as well as newcomer assistance. Statistics for EPSB schools are available for public viewing.
Edmonton Catholic School Division (ECSD)
Edmonton Catholic School Board is a publicly funded religious (Catholic) school board that provides guidance in Catholic beliefs and rituals alongside the Alberta Curriculum. Schools under this division will have religion classes offered. The Catholic school division is the fourth largest school division in Alberta, with over 94 schools (ranging from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12) open. Students who are not Catholic may still be accepted into a Catholic Division school, depending on space availability. This division follows a catchment area system, but if room is available, most schools accept students from outside the specified area.
Edmonton Private Schools
Private schools in Edmonton are generally well-regarded for their rigorous academic programs, individualized attention, and small classrooms, enhancing their reputation to provide high-quality education. They also typically have a stronger community, not just within the school, but extending to parents and parental involvement. However, the transition from public to private school can be extremely challenging, so it's important for families to be aware of this potential adjustment period and prepare accordingly to support this adaptation to a completely new environment. Enrollment typically involves an application process that may include academic records, interviews, or assessments. While most private schools are open to all students, some have specific requirements, such as those related to religious affiliation. Tuition fees generally range from $3,000 to $15,000 per year, with additional costs for uniforms, extracurricular activities, and other expenses. In Edmonton, some private schools are: Aurora Academic Charter School, Progressive Academy, and Tempo School.
Homeschooling
Homeschooling can be done with or without a schoolboard. Homeschooling with a school board will follow that school boards curriculum, and homeschooling without a school board allows for the parent or guardian to take control of a students education. To graduate from High School in Edmonton in a homeschooling program (with or without a school board), students must pass the Alberta Diploma Exams. See our program page on Homeschooling for more information.