Why Vancouver and BC Private Schools Stand Out
British Columbia is home to some of Canada’s most prestigious private schools — institutions known for their academic excellence, innovative programs, and nurturing environments.
From the urban campuses of Vancouver to the forested lakeside of Vancouver Island, BC schools combine rigorous academics with character education, leadership training, and global citizenship.
Whether your child is entering primary or high school, understanding each school’s unique admissions process is the key to a strong application.
This 2026 guide by Think Academy Canada brings together verified information from five of BC’s most respected independent schools: St. George’s, Crofton House, York House, Shawnigan Lake, and West Point Grey Academy.
For families exploring options across provinces, comparing the Ontario private school admission guide can be helpful. Both regions share rigorous academic expectations, but BC schools often stand out for their experiential learning and balance between intellectual and emotional growth — making them ideal for students who learn best through inquiry and exploration.
How the Private School Admission Process Works in BC
Most schools in BC open applications in September 2025, with deadlines between October and December. Assessments and interviews typically occur from January to February 2026, and final decisions are released around February or March.
A standard BC private school application includes:
- Online application form and fee
- Past two years of report cards
- Teacher reference or confidential school report
- Entrance assessments (school-based or SSAT)
- Student and family interviews (in person or virtual)
For boarding schools, additional documents such as English proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo) and passports are often required.
St. George’s School (Boys | IB | Day & Boarding)
Motto: Building Fine Young Men. One Boy at a Time.
Founded in 1930, St. George’s School is one of Canada’s leading all-boys institutions, serving students from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
With two campuses in Vancouver, the school offers an IB World curriculum, world-class boarding, and a character education framework designed to develop leadership, resilience, and curiosity.
Admissions Overview (2026 Entry)
- Grades Accepted: K–12 (main entry points: Grades 6, 8, 10)
- Applications Open: September 2025
- Deadlines: Kindergarten: October 30, 2025 (assessment: Jan 7–12, decisions Feb 18)
- Grades 4–12: October 30, 2025 (G4–8 assessments: late Oct–mid Nov; decisions Feb–Mar)
- Non-entry Grades 1–3: Jan 31, 2026
- Boarding Inquiry Form: Apply Here
Admission Process
- Submit online application and fee.
- Upload two years of report cards and a birth certificate or passport.
- Applicants in Grades 6–11 may need to take the SSAT or school-based entrance test.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview focusing on curiosity, independence, and leadership.
- Boarding students complete a virtual or in-person interview with the admissions team.
What the School Looks For
St. George’s seeks motivated, kind, and well-rounded boys who demonstrate initiative, empathy, and the ability to lead and collaborate. The school places equal emphasis on academic ability, co-curricular involvement, and personal character.
Financial Aid
St. George’s commits over $1.8 million annually to financial aid for students in Grades 4–12, ensuring that deserving boys can attend regardless of financial circumstances.
Parent Tip: Apply early and attend open houses to understand the difference between Junior and Senior campuses — it helps tailor your child’s application essay and interview conversation.
Crofton House School (Girls | Day | Vancouver)
Empowering Girls to Learn, Lead, and Thrive.
Founded in 1898, Crofton House School (CHS) is an all-girls K–12 day school located in Vancouver’s West Side. Known for its academic excellence, Ivy Compass leadership program, and supportive environment, Crofton emphasizes confidence, curiosity, and compassion.
Admissions Overview (2026 Entry)
- Major Entry Grades: JK (25 seats), SK (15 seats), Grade 6 (20–26 seats), Grade 8 (44 seats, including up to 10 English+ spots)
- Application Deadlines: JK/SK: Nov 21, 2025
- Grade 6: Nov 21, 2025
- Grade 8: Nov 5, 2025(earlier than previous years)
- Grades 1–5, 7, 9–12: Nov 28, 2025
- Financial Aid Application:Dec 1, 2025 (via Apple Financial Services – FACS)
Admission Process
- Complete online application and pay the fee ($200–350, depending on grade).
- Upload school reports, ID, and teacher reference.
- Participate in in-house assessments or observations (mandatory for JK–7).
- Grade 8 applicants take the SSAT and a Crofton in-house test by Nov 21, 2025.
- Attend an interview (G6 joint parent–student, G8 separate sessions).
English+ Program
Available for Grade 8 applicants whose first language is not English but who have studied in English-medium schools.
The English+ Assessment (administered by CM Global) takes place on Dec 11, 2025. Students gain structured support to achieve academic fluency and integrate into Crofton’s advanced curriculum.
Financial Aid
Crofton offers need-based financial aid for new Grade 8 students, covering up to 98% of tuition and related costs (textbooks, uniforms, outdoor education, and co-curriculars).
Families can also request fee waivers for application, SSAT, and FACS submission.
What Crofton Looks For
CHS values integrity, curiosity, and collaboration. The admissions team looks for students eager to engage deeply, explore new interests, and contribute positively to the all-girls community.
Parent Tip: Emphasize your daughter’s teamwork, resilience, and independent thinking — Crofton interviews focus more on mindset than on perfection.
York House School (Girls | Day | Vancouver)
Start Your Journey — Where Every Girl’s Voice Matters.
Established in 1932, York House School (YHS) is a leading all-girls independent day school offering JK–Grade 12 education.
Known for its Reggio Emilia-inspired early years, Advanced Placement courses, and Capstone Program, YHS provides an environment where every student’s voice is valued and individuality is celebrated.
Academic Program
- Junior School (JK–7): Reggio Emilia approach fosters creativity, collaboration, and inquiry-based learning.
- Senior School (8–12): Combines BC curriculum with AP courses, Global Online Academy electives, and leadership development through the Capstone project.
Admissions Overview
- Applications open one year in advance (September 2025 for 2026 entry).
- Process includes online application, supporting documents, and interviews.
- Students may complete academic assessments depending on grade.
What York House Looks For
York House seeks curious, reflective learners who are confident in expressing themselves and open to exploring new ideas. The admissions team emphasizes personal growth, collaboration, and commitment to community values.
Financial Assistance
YHS provides need-based bursaries to ensure accessibility for qualified applicants.
Parent Tip: Encourage your daughter to share personal reflections during interviews — YHS values authenticity and self-awareness as indicators of leadership potential.
Shawnigan Lake School (Co-ed | Boarding | Vancouver Island)
Spark Minds, Kindle Hearts, Forge Futures.
Founded in 1916, Shawnigan Lake School is one of Canada’s premier co-educational boarding schools for Grades 8–12, located on a 270-acre lakefront campus on Vancouver Island.
Known for its holistic education, strong AP program, and innovative experiential learning, Shawnigan prepares students to thrive as global leaders.
Quick Facts
- Students: 550 total (445 boarding)
- International Representation: 30+ countries
- Student–Teacher Ratio: 8:1
- Financial Aid: 35% of students receive support; $5.4M awarded annually
- University Acceptance: 100%
Admissions Overview (2026 Entry)
- Boarding: Grades 8–11
- Day: Grades 8–10
- Day Application Deadline:Nov 1, 2025
- Application Fee: CAD $300
- Inquiry Form: Submit Here
Application Process
Create an online account and submit the form with supporting documents:
- Previous two years of report cards
- Passport
- English test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo)
- Two teacher recommendations (English and Math)
- Pay the application fee.
- Schedule an interview and campus visit (Zoom available if abroad).
- Receive decision after holistic review (academic, co-curricular, personal integrity, and boarding readiness).
Academic Program
- BC Curriculum + 25 AP Courses
- Signature programs: EDGE Service Learning, Living Lab, Entrepreneurship 12, Salmon Hatchery, and Growing Dome Sustainability Projects.
- Co-Curricular 360 (two afternoons per week) offering 30+ options in arts, sciences, and entrepreneurship — including the C.A.S.E. (Communications, Arts, Sciences, Entrepreneurship) initiative.
Learning & Language Support
- Learning Centre (LC): Academic and emotional support hub.
- English Language Centre (ELC): Intensive ESL program for international students integrating language and cultural immersion.
Financial Aid
Applications for Founder’s Awards (need-based bursaries) are accepted after admission.
Parent Tip: Encourage your child to highlight initiative and curiosity — Shawnigan interviews reward students who connect their experiences to leadership and community engagement.
West Point Grey Academy (Co-ed | Day | Vancouver)
Shaping Lives of Inquiry, Action, and Joy.
Founded in 1996, West Point Grey Academy (WPGA) is a co-educational JK–12 independent day school overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
WPGA emphasizes inquiry-based learning, global citizenship, and a balanced approach that blends academic challenge with joyful exploration.
Academic Approach
Students learn through project-based inquiry that links classroom learning to real-world issues. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, numeracy, creativity, and community engagement.
- Junior School (JK–7): Foundational academics and character education; Reggio-inspired early years.
- Senior School (8–12): Interdisciplinary courses, leadership opportunities, and post-secondary guidance starting in Grade 10.
Admissions Overview
- Applications Open: September 2025
- Tours & Information Sessions:Junior School (JK–7): Family info session + student-led tour (Grades 6–7 also visit Senior School).
- Senior School (8–12): Weekly student-led info sessions.
- Families must create or log in to the WPGA Application Portal to register for tours.
Enrolment Committee
The admissions process is overseen by the Director of Enrolment, Head of School, and divisional leaders. Applications are reviewed holistically, focusing on fit and alignment with WPGA’s mission.
Policy
WPGA maintains a No-Gifts Policy — no donations or gifts are accepted from prospective families to ensure fairness and transparency.
Parent Tip: Attend a campus tour early. WPGA values families who engage thoughtfully with its inquiry philosophy and community-driven culture.
Final Thoughts on Vancouver & BC Private Schools 2026 Admission
The leading private schools of British Columbia share a common philosophy: they look beyond grades to seek curiosity, character, and community spirit.
Families who understand each school’s timeline, expectations, and interview style can help their children present their authentic best.
Next Step for Parents
Understanding the admissions process is only the first step — helping your child build strong academic and problem-solving foundations is equally crucial.
Think Academy Canada offers a Free Academic Evaluation to assess your child’s readiness for private school entrance assessments and the BC math curriculum, providing personalized insights and strategies for success.
