Ontario is home to some of the best high schools in Canada, offering exceptional academic programs, extracurricular activities, and university preparation. Whether students seek a rigorous academic environment, specialized programs, or faith-based education, these schools provide outstanding opportunities for success.
Table of Contents:
- St. Robert Catholic High School
- St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic High School
- Al-Manarat Islamic School
- St. Michael’s Choir School
- York Mills Collegiate Institute
- Ursula Franklin Academy
- Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute
- Oakville Trafalgar High School
- Bayview Secondary School
- Iroquois Ridge High School
1. St. Robert Catholic High School
Located in Thornhill, St. Robert Catholic High School is a highly ranked school known for its strong academic performance and competitive Advanced Placement (AP) program. The school offers a wide range of courses, including STEM, humanities, and the arts. St. Robert has consistently ranked among the top high schools in Ontario, with graduates attending top universities across Canada and internationally. The school also provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, debate clubs, and student leadership programs.
Admission to St. Robert Catholic High School is open to students within the York Catholic District School Board, though spots in specialized programs like AP may require strong academic records and teacher recommendations. Some courses and programs may also have additional application processes.
2. St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic High School
St. Therese of Lisieux, located in Richmond Hill, is a well-regarded Catholic high school with a strong focus on academic excellence and community involvement. The school offers AP courses, a robust arts program, and various leadership opportunities. St. Therese of Lisieux is known for its welcoming environment, strong moral education, and commitment to student success. Graduates from this school consistently achieve high university acceptance rates.
Enrollment is primarily for students within the York Catholic District School Board. Admission to the AP program or other advanced courses may require strong grades, entrance assessments, and teacher recommendations.
3. Al-Manarat Islamic School
Al-Manarat Islamic School is a private faith-based school that integrates Islamic studies with the Ontario curriculum. Known for its academic rigor and focus on character development, Al-Manarat offers a balanced education that prepares students for both university and community leadership. The school emphasizes science, technology, and mathematics while fostering a strong moral foundation through religious teachings and extracurricular activities.
As a private institution, Al-Manarat Islamic School requires an application process, including academic records, an entrance interview, and proof of Islamic faith for those enrolling in religious programs. Financial aid options may be available for qualifying families.
4. St. Michael’s Choir School
St. Michael’s Choir School, located in downtown Toronto, is a prestigious Catholic institution that combines academic excellence with an outstanding choral music program. Students receive professional-level vocal training in addition to a rigorous academic curriculum that includes math, sciences, humanities, and languages. The school has a strong reputation for producing accomplished musicians and scholars, many of whom continue their studies at top universities and conservatories.
Prospective students must pass both an academic entrance exam and a music audition. The school looks for applicants with strong academic performance and musical potential. As a Catholic institution, preference is given to Catholic students.
5. York Mills Collegiate Institute
York Mills Collegiate Institute is a top-performing public high school in Toronto, offering a diverse and well-rounded academic program. The school provides AP courses, specialized programs in business and technology, and a strong focus on STEM education. Students benefit from small class sizes, experienced faculty, and a range of extracurricular opportunities, including athletics, arts, and leadership programs.
Enrollment is based on residential zoning, though students may apply for specialized programs requiring entrance assessments or prior academic achievement.
6. Ursula Franklin Academy
Ursula Franklin Academy is a unique public high school known for its interdisciplinary approach to learning and its emphasis on STEM education. The school follows a non-semestered system that promotes continuous learning and deep engagement with subjects. Ursula Franklin fosters a culture of academic excellence, innovation, and social responsibility, with students often participating in research projects, environmental initiatives, and leadership activities.
Admission to Ursula Franklin Academy is competitive and based on an application process that includes an entrance assessment, personal statement, and strong academic records. The school does not follow standard residential zoning rules.
7. Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute
Located in midtown Toronto, Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute is one of the city’s most sought-after public high schools. The school offers AP courses, a vibrant arts program, and strong extracurricular involvement. Lawrence Park provides a well-rounded education, emphasizing critical thinking, leadership, and community engagement. The school’s graduates consistently gain admission to top universities in Canada and beyond.
Admission is primarily determined by residential zoning, though advanced programs and AP courses may require additional academic prerequisites or teacher recommendations.
8. Oakville Trafalgar High School
Oakville Trafalgar High School is one of the top-rated high schools in Ontario, offering excellent academic programs and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school has a reputation for strong student performance in STEM subjects, humanities, and the arts. With highly qualified teachers, modern facilities, and competitive sports teams, Oakville Trafalgar ensures that students receive a high-quality education and opportunities for personal growth.
The school primarily admits students within its designated boundary area, though some specialized programs may allow out-of-area applications based on academic merit.
9. Bayview Secondary School
Bayview Secondary School, located in Richmond Hill, is known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which attracts high-achieving students from across the region. The school excels in academics, with students frequently earning top scores in standardized tests and securing university placements worldwide. Bayview also offers a range of clubs, sports, and leadership opportunities, creating a dynamic learning environment.
Admission to Bayview’s IB program is competitive and requires an application process that includes entrance exams, academic records, and teacher recommendations. General enrollment is limited to students in the designated area.
10. Iroquois Ridge High School
Iroquois Ridge High School in Oakville is a high-achieving public school known for its strong academic performance, advanced placement courses, and diverse extracurricular programs. The school promotes innovation, leadership, and social responsibility among its students. With modern facilities and a supportive learning environment, Iroquois Ridge is an excellent choice for students looking for both academic and personal growth.
Enrollment is based on residency in the designated catchment area, though some specialized programs may allow applications from students outside the area.
Conclusion
Ontario offers a variety of outstanding high schools that cater to different academic interests, extracurricular strengths, and personal values. Whether students are looking for AP or IB programs, faith-based education, or a strong STEM curriculum, these schools provide excellent opportunities for growth and success. By understanding each school’s strengths and admission requirements, students and parents can make informed decisions that align with their educational and career goals.