4099 Garrison Blvd SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2T 6G2, Canada
7410 Blackfoot Trail SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2H 1M5, Canada
1966
1982
440
640
Preschool to 12
7 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day, Homestay
Day
English, French
English, French
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Traditional
Varies
18 to 22
$16,150 to $18,310
$21,596 to $28,186
Yes
No
5%
0%
1 to 12
None
$7,000
$0
28
107
0%
0%
85%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - K
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
information not available
information not available
In Canada, “lycée” most typically references a relationship with the French ministry of education, and that’s true of Lycée international de Calgary. That’s of interest to French nationals, perhaps particularly, or to families expecting to move outside of Canada—say to France, for example—prior to the end of a student’s secondary career. Indeed, when the school was established in 1966, that’s exactly the community it was intending to address, and enrolment was reserved for the children of French nationals. Times have changed, and today most families that enrol at Lycée international de Calgary don’t fall into that narrow category. Rather, they are looking for a strong language program, one that is more robust than those found in public schools. They are also looking for a curriculum that is delivered through a different lens, one that is more cognizant of the diversity of the global community, and more reflective of a student’s place within that wider world. Certainly, Lycée international de Calgary provides all of that. The ideal student is one looking for a challenge and to learn within a diverse community of peers.
View full reportWest Island College was founded in Montreal in 1974, and was intended to provide a strong bilingual option for families living on Montreal’s West Island. The program there provided a foundation, and a name, for West Island College in Calgary when it was established in 1982. That said, the school quickly established its own independent operations and identity. As such, it was free to build and grow to meet the needs of its students, and it certainly has. The international programs are robust, as are the language programs, all of which contribute to the overall culture of the school. It’s a very interactive, engaging environment, one that requires a lot of the students who attend while also providing the support they need to succeed. The ideal student is one who shares the school’s foundational values and can thrive in a very active and engaging student environment.
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"...our children have so much more confidence in their work. The positive energy and encouragement is so helpful."
Brigitte Smith - Parent (May 14, 2018)
I have to say that the class sizes really are what make our children feel comfortable, less kids mak...
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"...great teachers and remarkable academic program."
Deniz Basibuyuk - Parent (May 23, 2018)
My daughter enjoyed the school environment and the size of the school allowed kids to feel like it�...
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"...the teachers at WIC are effective communicators inside and outside of their classrooms"
Jing Li - Parent (May 22, 2020)
We have two sons in WIC, both of whom started from grade seven. My older son is graduating in June 2...
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"WIC provided me with a very balanced set of opportunities that helped me thrive academically in university"
Adam Broniewski - Alumnus (May 29, 2020)
My time at West Island College (WIC) was incredibly memorable and has been influential in shaping me...
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"Lycée international de Calgary is a French bilingual school offering full-day programs from 3-years-old to Grade 12. It is Calgary's only school accredited by both the French Ministry of Education & Alberta Education. It provides a challenging education within a multicultural environment. Students are immersed in the French language and develop a global perspective. The French Language Intensive Program (FLIP) welcomes Grade 1-2 students with no prior exposure to French. Spanish instruction begins in Grade 6."
"West Island College (WIC) in Calgary, Alberta is a Gr. 7-12 independent university preparatory school offering English and French Immersion programming. The College has a diverse school community that encourages unity, collaboration and holistic student development. With comprehensive support, students are nurtured in academic and physical wellness along with emotional well-being. International Studies, Outdoor Education and the Institute Program enhance learning so students can succeed in an ever-changing world."
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Lycée international de Calgary is led by the Head of School, Frédéric Canadas.
Mr. Canadas holds a French teaching credential, a Bachelor’s degree in Science of Education, as well as a Master’s degree in Education (teaching French as a Second Language) and a DESS (Diplômes d'Études Supérieures Spécialisées - Post-Graduate Diploma), in creating and using multimedia resources for language learning.
He has over 30 years of experience in international, bilingual and French education, including many years of practice in multicultural and multilingual environments, in 7 countries and 4 different continents. Trilingual in French, English and Spanish, he has been a speaker, trainer and workshop leader in bilingual education best practices for teachers and administrators. Before coming to Lycée international de Calgary, he was the Head of School at Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley, United States, for 15 years.
Frédéric Canadas est titulaire d'un diplôme d'enseignement de l’éducation nationale française. Il possède une Licence en Sciences de l'Éducation, une Maîtrise de Français Langue Étrangère et un DESS (Master 2) de Concepteur Formateur Multimédia en Langues.
Il a plus de trente années d'expérience dans l’éducation internationale, bilingue et française, y compris plusieurs années de pratique dans des environnements multiculturels et multilingues, dans sept pays et quatre continents différents. Trilingue en français, anglais et espagnol, il a été conférencier, formateur et animateur d'ateliers sur les meilleures pratiques en matière d'éducation bilingue pour des enseignants ainsi que des Directeurs et Chefs d’établissements. Avant de se joindre à l’équipe du Lycée international de Calgary , il a dirigé l'École Bilingue de Berkeley, aux États-Unis, pendant quinze ans.
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Traditional
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Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Not applicable
Lycée international de Calgary encourages students to develop an appreciation for learning while also nurturing their intellectual, emotional, social, and physical potential. We teach a core set of academic skills and offer an enriched curriculum, including the French curriculum and Spanish instruction from Grade 6 onwards. Student assessment is based primarily on testing, and an emphasis is placed on knowledge acquisition and theoretical and academic learning, with the main focus being on cultivating the intellect of our students.
At West Island College incredible opportunities happen every day, in an environment where learning is tailored to each individual student; where relationships are nurtured through effective teamwork and collaboration; and where students are immersed in a community of enthusiastic learners. West Island College emphasizes respect, responsibility and citizenship. We believe that inspiring our students to pursue excellence in academics, leadership, athletics and global awareness prepares them for success in the 21st century. In addition to exceptional teachers, an Advanced Placement Program, Fine Arts Certificate, outstanding athletics, small class sizes and an extensive co-curricular program with leadership opportunities, WIC offers courses in French (Immersion or Second Language) and Spanish and an International Languages Certificate. From our International Studies program and authentic student leadership opportunities to Outdoor Education and WIC’s Business, Health Sciences and Engineering Institutes, students are challenged to go beyond their comfort zones and discover what experiential learning really means.
Traditional Math
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
Our mathematics program provides our students with a strong knowledge and mastery of the fundamental basic skills that students are able to draw upon when faced with solving more complex problems.
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We use a combination of approved resources from France and Alberta.
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Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
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Our early reading program blends phonics instruction in French and English, with guided reading, and leveled literacy focusing on individual abilities and needs.
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Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
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Our students benefit from a blended approach when it comes to our writing program. Students are provided with many opportunities to create authentic pieces which highlight their acquired skills and creativity.
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Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Our students benefit from two curricula, the French Ministry of Education and Alberta science curricula. In primary school, the study of science focuses on units of inquiry, for example, robotics and the solar system. Starting in Grade 6, science is taught as a specialized subject, leading to biology, chemistry, and physics study in later years.
WIC has a full time Science technician on hand to assist the teachers with preparing experiments. Thus ensuring steady hands on activities at all grade levels.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physics
Equal Balance
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
From Kindergarten to Grade 12, our students receive daily instruction in French and English. Our English program follows the Alberta English Language Arts curriculum which provides students with rich experiences with literacy.
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Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Not applicable
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
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Starting in Grade 2, students receive formal instruction in social studies. Following the Alberta curriculum, Social Studies uses a thematic approach to expose young minds to local, national, and international issues. Our students also benefit from the French Ministry of Education curriculum which starts formal instruction in history and geography in Grade 3.
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Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
Our students benefit from studying social studies and history/geography. The combination of these subjects provides students with a strong background to draw upon while contemplating contemporary issues.
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Communicative
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
Our students start formal instruction in Spanish in Grade 6. This provides our students with the opportunity to develop skills in a third language. Spanish instruction focuses on the interest of teenagers and the contents follow the recommendations set out in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. ESL instruction is also offered.
20% of the school is a French Immersion track. Offering 60% French language classes in the Junior School and 40% in the Senior School. We also offer 125 hours of French or Spanish second Language instruction yearly to the Junior school students. French and Spanish language instruction (along with French immersion) is offered through Grade 12 Most students also complete the DELE or DELF A and B levels.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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Creative
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
Our Fine Arts program provides our students with the opportunity to unleash their creativity. Formal instruction in Music and Art starts in Grade 1 and continues until Grade 9.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Technology plays a role in all our programs. From the early years to high school, we promote good digital citizenship skills and the integration of technology to enhance student learning.
Technology is available in most non movement classes. Including Ipads, Macbooks and PCs. All classes have wireless and teaching presentation stations. Technology is used as a tool in most classrooms, courses. Specific technology units taught at various grades, in multimedia, programming, app development, 3D design and printing, game design, html, website development.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Our Physical Education program blends the best of France and North America and is an integral part of our program. Students learn traditional North American and European sports. Our students benefit from our state of the art indoor climbing wall.
Daily phys ed is provided in the Junior School. Mandatory phys ed to Grade 10. We also provide PE 20 30, Sports Performance and Sports Med classes.
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Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
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Lycée international de Calgary offers a full-time Preschool and Kindergarten Program for children aged 3 to 5. Our program is more than a daycare: it is a passport to the world. Through games, discovery, artistic activities and a range of diverse exercises, children learn to express themselves, they acquire a broader vocabulary and discover the written word. The main goal of the Preschool/Kindergarten Program is for the child to acquire rich, organized language and to be understood by others and prepares them for the next step in their education.
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Standard-enriched
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
Independent and accelerated studies are offered on a case by case basis.
Rigorous
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
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"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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Lycée international de Calgary provides a challenging and stimulating bilingual education within a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment. We allow students to develop the skills necessary to be responsible, dynamic citizens, capable of playing an important role in the future of the world.
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RecreationalRec. |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
1 - 12
5%
0%
$7,000
$0
85%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - K
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 1 - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
Yes: grades 7 - 12
No
No
We conduct an informal assessment with preschool-aged children and formally test for entrance in Grade 1 and above.
At WIC, we strive to attract and retain students who consistently demonstrate character, have strong morals and will uphold our values. As a university preparatory school, WIC offers challenging curricula that encourages students to explore their passions and work to their full potential. While we consider every applicant’s academic performance, WIC seeks out well-rounded students who are prepared to contribute to school life and the greater community. WIC encourages applications from students ready to embrace the College’s motto: Be Brave. Be Bold. Be Ready.
All linguistic backgrounds are welcome.
No prior French exposure is needed to enroll in our Preschool and Kindergarten Programs.
Our French Language Intensive Program (FLIP) allows us to welcome new students (Grades 1 and 2) who have little or no prior exposure to the French language.
WIC administers the CCAT (Canadian Cognitive Abilities Test), which is a 90-minute standardized test for students entering Gr. 7 – 12. Parents and students must understand that test results are only one part of the admissions process. Spending huge amounts of time and money preparing for the standardized test is not recommended.
Please note, we will accept the SSAT instead of our locally offered entrance exams. Choose West Island College as a recipient in the SSAT online tool.