362 Mariposa Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1M 0T3, Canada
851 Tecumseh, Montreal (DDO), Quebec, H9B 2L2, Canada
362 Mariposa Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1M 0T3, Canada
851 Tecumseh, Montreal (DDO), Quebec, H9B 2L2, Canada
1891
1974
730
485
4 to 12
7 to 12
Coed
Coed
Homestay, Day, Boarding
Day
English, French
English, French
Academic
Academic
Traditional, International Baccalaureate
Traditional
17
10 to 24
Accelerated curriculum
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$33,720
$15,400
$76,380
Yes
Yes
10%
0%
7 to 12
7 to 11
$15,000
$5,000
81
81
15%
0%
70%
0%
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11
9, 10, 11, 12
Dec 01, 2023
Oct 09, 2020
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 4 - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
No
No
information not available
information not available
Ashbury celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2021, making it one of the oldest schools in the nation. Of that class, it’s also one of the larger schools, with an annual enrollment in the 800 range. There are benefits to size, and Ashbury displays them, with a wealth of extra-curricular activities and co-curricular programs. The school was founded by a graduate of Oxford, Canon George Penrose Woollcombe, who cast the school within the academic tradition that Oxford was, and is, an example of. That said, times change, and certainly Ashbury did as well. The school was an early adopter of global education, most obviously with the addition of the IB program in 1976. Girls were enrolled in 1982, and while the boys still marginally outnumber the girls, the school continues to move toward gender parity. The list of alumni is impressive, including a prime minister, John Turner, and a Nobel laureate, Douglass North. The ideal student is one looking for a challenge, and who can function well in very active curricular and extracurricular environments.
View full reportWest Island College (WIC), in Montreal, is effectively two schools under one roof. It offers an enriched education for Grades 7 to 11 in two streams: one for native French language speakers and a separate French immersion program. Academic excellence is the main focus at WIC. The school also has strong athletics and arts programs, and offers a wide range of extracurriculars that includes musical theatre, debate, robotics, school newspaper work, and yoga. This helps unlock kids’ passions and nurtures their interests. After enrolment, kids enter one of three houses at WIC, creating instant camaraderie and community. Small class sizes, individualized learning, and whole-person development help kids thrive academically but also socially and emotionally. Kids at WIC are encouraged to grow into well-rounded, global-minded citizens who are actively engaged with their community both inside and outside of the school gates.
View full report
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"Established in 1891, Ashbury College is an IB coeducational facility recognized as one of Canada’s leading day and boarding schools for students in Grades 4–12. Motivated students from 60+ countries benefit from rigorous academic programs, over 70 co-curricular activities, 100% university placement rate, and an average class size of 17."
"West Island College (WIC) is two schools under the same roof: an entirely French school and an English school with a French immersion program. Both offer enriched studies. WIC students and teachers engage in a learning process that is second to none. Our caring educational community is committed to helping every student to be informed and empowered, leading by example to discover and pursue their own path forward in academics, the arts, athletics, community service, leadership, or wherever their passion lies."
"Ashbury offers our students boundless opportunities for learning beyond the classroom from our broad range of co-curricular activities, athletic opportunities and artistic endeavours to our Internship Program that provides students the chance to explore various career options. Ashbury is actively involved in the Round Square Program including the opportunity for our students to take part in the International Exchange Program."
"The WIC Difference
The Pursuit of Personal Excellence
Our vision is to be an inclusive community that continuously defines an innovative learning experience and cultivates multilingual, well-rounded, global-minded citizens who embrace change.
By cultivating a culture of care and connecting the classroom to the curriculum of life, WIC empowers every student to have a positive impact in their communities and beyond."
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"Ashbury is proud of its 100% IB Certificate completion rate and university placement record. Attending Ashbury opens doors to the future for our graduates."
"Families choose West Island College for its established reputation (almost 50 years), close-knit community, bilingual environment, wide range of extra-curricular activities, enriched curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, inclusivity, and commitment to empowering students. These qualities create an educational experience that prepares students for academic success, while also equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world."
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"The location of the Ashbury in the heart of the Nation's Capital, Ottawa, provides a number of unique opportunities for our students including access to a multitude of museums, galleries, and learning centres such as the Global Centre for Pluralism. Ottawa is surrounded by a variety of greenspaces in which to learn and play. Ashbury actively engages our students with the greater Ottawa community through our charitable activities and our ongoing relationship with our local Indigenous partners."
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"Given our rich history, many families are surprised to see our state-of-the-art education spaces including our Design Technology and Science labs, Arts studios and Music facilities, and Library and Learning Commons. Your child will have access to vibrant, modern learning facilities that are truly conducive to teaching innovation and learning."
"WIC houses two schools in one building, allowing students to mingle together in all activities (meals are included in the fees at WIC). This integrated approach fosters unity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange among the student body. By going beyond language barriers, students develop strong communication skills, cultural competence, and a global perspective. It creates a unique and enriching environment where students can build lasting friendships and connections that extend beyond classrooms."
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Together towards the future—Ensemble vers l’avenir.
From our home in Canada’s capital city, Ashbury College is a centre for excellence in international teaching and learning, where enthusiasm permeates life both in and out of the classroom. Our goal is to not only get students to new destinations but also to help them develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed and adapt to the challenges they will face.
This is a close and diverse school community that integrates young children with pre-university students. In a supportive environment, we challenge students to step out of their comfort zones and to think critically and globally—all while ensuring the simple, yet important, formalities of manners and respect are not overlooked.
A wealth of co-curricular clubs, sports, and arts activities bring learning to a lively stage, and our international orientation permeates school life on so many levels. Bien entendu, l’école se trouve dans la capitale nationale, et l’école démontre l’importance des deux langues nationales, en offrant plusieurs options bilingue. As we look past our 130+ years teaching bright young minds, being innovative while not abandoning the tried and tested will inspire our teaching and learning pedagogy and prepare students for the future.
Ashbury College is an exciting place to be, and I invite you to discover the advantages and experiences we have to offer.
Norman Southward
Head of School—Directeur
It is a great pleasure and privilege to welcome you to West Island College Montréal!
We are immensely proud of the reputation our school has established since its founding in 1974. WIC is an independent, non-denominational co-ed day school with more than 470 students from Grades 7 to 11 and 65 staff, all united by the joy of learning, personal excellence in achievement, and shared values. Our progressive attitude and technology-infused approach shape our unique bilingual learning environment.
As you get to know us, you will see that WIC’s vision and mission are impactful, bringing together academic excellence and an inclusive learning community for all. The WIC difference builds on the school’s fantastic 46-year tradition to innovate and create meaningful opportunities for today’s young people, whether in the classroom, enriching experiential excursions or vibrant array of extracurriculars.
Our bilingual learning community embraces change and engages with the curriculum of life beyond the school gates. We positively challenge students of all backgrounds and ignite every student’s innate love of learning. A focus on personalized learning and whole-person development enables WIC students to thrive and achieve excellent results – we have a proven track record of successful progression into post-secondary education in Québec and beyond.
At the centre of every great school is an outstanding staff, and WIC is no exception. Whether inside the classroom or out, students and teachers engage in a learning process that is second to none. Together, our caring educational community is committed to helping every student to be informed and empowered, leading by example to discover and pursue their own path forward in academics, the arts, athletics, community service, leadership, or wherever their passion lies. Our students acquire the mindset and competencies to make a difference and succeed in the world of the future, actively contributing as well-rounded, global-minded citizens and deeply connected Montrealers.
The best way to get to know our community is to visit and discover why WIC truly is an extraordinary school where ideas live and breathe. Please contact our Admissions team and join one of our virtual tours. We very much look forward to welcoming you!
Traditional
Information not available
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.
Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.
Not applicable
The liberal education provided by the Ashbury College teaches students to think, speak and write clearly, critically and creatively. It leads them to explore the core subjects that comprise our human heritage and are the hallmarks of an educated person. It develops a healthy body and illuminates the spirit by inspiring students to look beyond themselves towards the greater good. Ashbury graduates enter university with the knowledge, skills, integrity and compassion born of careful scholarship, richly rewarding faculty contacts, physical activity and spiritual reflection.
MISSION To provide an innovative learning culture in a coed bilingual environment, in which each student develops the skills necessary to excel in post-secondary education and in life. VISION We are a lead school redefining the educational experience through innovative teaching and learning. The school, established in 1974, offers a rich tradition of achievement and a reputation as being progressive, innovative, and committed to excellence. At WIC, we provide a stimulating learning environment that is both nurturing and challenging in all areas. Our excellent academic, sports and cultural offerings afford every individual the opportunity to shape their development as well-balanced, happy, and contributing members of the community. Our school combines excellence in teaching, creativity in the curriculum, and a highly personal experience in a technology-enriched learning environment. At WIC, extraordinary opportunities such as international travel, extracurricular activities, arts, and athletics are accessible to all students, and within our small school environment, they are able to participate and excel in a variety of fields.
Equal Balance
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.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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Whole Language reading programs eschew sublexical (under the word-level) training, focusing instead on getting students to infer and guess at words based on their understanding of the larger meaning of the sentence (“context-clues”). Students are given ample opportunity to read actual literature (age-appropriate) along with strategies for using semantic-based clues to pronounce unrecognized words.
Not applicable
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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.
Not applicable
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Inquiry
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.
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
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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.
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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.
Not applicable
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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.
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Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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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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Equal Balance
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Heavy integration
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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Not applicable
Not applicable
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Standard-enriched
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
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.
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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 honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
"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.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Not applicable
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CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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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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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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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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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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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
7 - 12
7 - 11
10%
0%
$15,000
$5,000
70%
0%
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
7, 8, 9, 10, 11
9, 10, 11, 12
Dec 01, 2023
Oct 09, 2020
Rolling
Not available
Yes: grades 4 - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 4 - 12
Yes: grades 7 - 11
No
No
No
No
We are looking for curious and engaged students who will contribute to Ashbury College in many different ways. We have a very diverse student body that is highly involved in many different aspects of life at Ashbury College.
Confidential Reference
We require one Confidential Reference per applicant from their Math or English teacher. The Confidential Reference Request is found in the applicant's checklist found on the MySchoolApp portal.
Application Fee
The $200.00 application fee is non-refundable and is payable by Visa, MasterCard or American Express.
School Reports
The applicant’s final report card from their last completed academic year, as well as any interim report cards as they become available, may be uploaded to the MySchoolApp portal.
Interview
All applicants will be interviewed during their Day Visit. Applicants unable to visit Ashbury College must participate in a telephone or Zoom interview. To schedule your interview please contact us at [email protected] or +1.613.749.5954.
Day Visit
Grades 4–8 applicants must spend a day at the school at any time during the application process. Grades 9 – 12 applicants are encouraged, but not required, to spend a day at Ashbury College at any time during the application process. Applicants living at a distance are excused from the Day Visit requirement. Please email [email protected] or call +1.613.749.5954 to make arrangements for a Day Visit
Entrance Examination
The Entrance Exam consists of an online standardized multiple-choice test for reading and mathematics skills at the applicant’s last completed grade level. Registration information will be sent through the online application process.
Students may also write the SSAT (Additional Fee).
Financial Assistance Program
If you are interested in financial assistance, please contact us at [email protected] or +1.613.749.5954.
Evaluation for French School on Sunday, October 4, 2020
Evaluation for English School on Sunday, October 25, 2020
