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

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

Parents should note that competition for placements in Montreal's international schools is quite stiff, especially in the lower grades, so expats should apply well in advance as their children may find themselves on a long waiting list.

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

Expat Interviews

"Canada has an excellent education system and parents will have a wide variety of options when it comes their kids' schooling. No matter which option you choose, kids will get a good education. Our children go to our local public school and we are quite happy with it." 

Read more about South African expat Catherine's experiences in Canada in our interview. 

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.