Given that education in Quebec is primarily in French, many expats choose to send their child to an English-medium private school or international school in Montreal.

While a significant number of the public schools in the city offer bilingual education, French is usually taught at the first-language level, which can be challenging for older children who don't speak the language.

There is, however, a high level of competition for places at Montreal's international schools, especially in the lower grades. Expat kids may find themselves on a waiting list before they can enrol.

Private and international schools in Montreal

Beurling Academy

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec) and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 12 to 17
Website: beurling.lbpsb.qc.ca

Centennial Academy

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec)
Ages: 12 to 17
Website: www.centennial.qc.ca

Kells Academy

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec)
Ages: 5 to 17
Website: www.kells.ca

Kuper Academy

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec)
Ages: 5 to 17
Website: www.kuperacademy.ca

Lower Canada College

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec) and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 5 to 18
Website: www.lcc.ca

St George's School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian (Quebec)
Ages: 5 to 17
Website: www.stgeorges.qc.ca

Further reading

►If you're planning on settling down in the city, check out our Moving to Montreal page

►Working in Montreal provides an overview of the professional environment and tips on finding a job

Are you an expat living in Montreal?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Montreal. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.