Frequently Asked Questions about the School Year in Canada

At My Language Quest, we constantly advise families looking to organize a school year in Canada for their children, and we’ve noticed that most of them share the same concerns. It’s completely normal: grade equivalencies, visa procedures, the weather, adapting to a host family, and program costs are key aspects to making a good decision.

For this reason, we have gathered and answered the most common questions here. We hope they help you plan, clear up your doubts, or start dreaming about this very special journey.

1. Is the Canadian education system really as good as they say?

Yes: Canada consistently ranks among the top countries in the PISA report and spends more per capita on education than any other G8 nation. Its approach is practical and inclusive, fostering critical thinking. The school year runs from late August or early September through June.

Additionally, they remain at the forefront of pedagogical strategies, ensuring that every new advancement in educational science is reflected in their classrooms.

2. Can I choose the school or the province?

Yes to the province, but not the exact school directly. In Canada, you choose a school district (the public entity managing the schools in a specific area), and within it, availability is confirmed at a recommended school.

We work with more than 40 school districts across 9 provinces, so you can decide based on climate (British Columbia is milder; Alberta or Ontario have colder winters but plenty of snow for sports), lifestyle (Ontario is more cosmopolitan, Alberta features the Rocky Mountains, and Nova Scotia is quieter), and budget (from €19,000 to €32,000). Most of our students attend public or Catholic schools (the latter are publicly funded, have the same price, and integrate Christian values).

3. Is it easy to adapt to a Canadian host family?

Although it always depends a bit on the student, our experience at MLQ shows that the answer is yes.

The process families go through to become host families is rigorous: in-depth interviews, home visits, criminal background checks, and specific training to host international students, along with continuous monitoring throughout the program.

It is also guaranteed that your child will be the only native Spanish speaker in the host family to maximize language immersion. Should a genuine incompatibility arise, there is an official process in place for changing families.

4. How are studies in Canada validated back home?

The process varies depending on the grade:

• For 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year of ESO: There is no formal subject-by-subject validation with the Ministry. Upon returning to Spain, the school’s administration evaluates the Canadian academic transcript and decides on promotion to the next grade (with marks of 60–70%+, passing is almost guaranteed, though it remains at the school's discretion, so it is advisable to agree on the criteria with the Spanish school before traveling).
• For 4th year of ESO and Bachillerato (1st and 2nd year): The process is indeed formal with the Ministry of Education. Students must pass at least 5 core subjects with a grade of C or higher (60%+), and submit the official transcript with the Hague Apostille and a certified translation. The procedure takes between 3 and 6 months, so it must be initiated as soon as you return.

Subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, History/Geography, or French are easily validated; others like Civics & Careers, Health Education, or Cooperative Education are difficult to get recognized.

Important: Only full-year programs are eligible for official recognition; semesters and terms do not receive official academic recognition in Spain.

5. Does my child need a visa?

For stays longer than 6 months, a Study Permit is mandatory (around €170). The entire process (gathering documentation, submitting the online application, biometric appointment in Madrid, and final decision) takes between 4 and 12 weeks. We recommend starting it 6 to 7 months in advance. In Quebec, a CAQ is also required, at an additional cost of €550.

Regarding the famous 17.000 € required by Canada: it is not a payment. It is simply proof, via a bank statement, that the family has sufficient financial solvency to cover potential additional expenses during the stay. The funds are neither transferred nor frozen, and can be spread across multiple accounts.

6. What level of English does my child need?

The minimum recommended level is B1, although some schools accept an A2 level by offering English as a Second Language (ESL) support integrated into the school schedule. All our programs include preparation for Cambridge exams at no additional cost, and the usual progression during a full school year is moving from a B1 level to a C1 level, thanks to the immersion with the host family.

7. What support does my child receive during the program?

• A personal manager in Spain (with regular check-ins and a WhatsApp tracking group for the family).
• A local coordinator in Canada available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Professional psychological support to assist with adaptation or help manage homesickness.

How can I start organizing an experience like this for my child?

The first step is always clearing up any questions you have with straightforward information. Schedule your advisory call with our experts now using this link and we will guide you through everything you need to know. You can also fill out the form below and our representatives will get in touch with you as soon as possible.