International Students and Family Boarding
Armbrae’s dedicated small class sizes of 18-22 students and dedicated teachers mean every student is seen, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. We offer a strong, university-preparatory program grounded in academic rigour and focused on critical thinking, creativity, and real-world skills. Armbrae offers programs from preschool through grade 12, with family boarding available for students in Grades 8–12.
Our Advanced Placement (AP) program gives students the opportunity to study at the university level and extend their already advanced academics. Based on our students’ May 2025 AP performance, Armbrae was named to the AP School Honor Roll, earning Platinum in the College Culture metric, Gold for both College Credit and College Optimization, and an overall Gold AP Honor Roll distinction.
Armbrae graduates are consistently accepted into top universities across Canada, the United States, and around the world—carrying with them the skills, character, and confidence to thrive wherever they go. Armbrae students have 100% university placement.
Beyond the classroom, international students become part of a vibrant, welcoming community where lifelong friendships are formed. Since 1887, Armbrae has been built on a strong sense of belonging. With rich opportunities in athletics, leadership, the arts, and service, students are encouraged to explore their passions and grow in confidence both in school and in the wider community. Well known for our drama and speaking arts programs, Armbrae is a national leader in debate and public speaking.
Family Boarding at Armbrae is a fun, authentic cultural experience that lets students live a Halifax life to the fullest in a warm family setting.Carefully vetted host families from ISGC, with over 15 years of family boarding experience. Chosen families within the Armbrae community welcome students into their homes and serve as a “second family” while they attend the school. In partnership with Armbrae’s International Student Program, our faculty and administration work closely with these hosts to ensure that life outside the classroom is just as rich, engaging, and supportive as the learning that happens within it.
From trips to the ocean and visits to historic sites, to cultural celebrations, scenic hikes, and foodie adventures around the city, students enjoy a full Canadian experience while feeling known, included, and at home. Located in Halifax,Nova Scotia - a safe, friendly, and sophisticated coastal city known for its cultural diversity - Armbrae offers international students a truly Canadian experience in a close-knit school community.
Here, students are welcomed, known, and supported as they learn and live just minutes from the ocean. Armbrae’s high-performance basketball and volleyball programs are built for student-athletes who are ready to raise their game. Athletes take part in weekly strength and conditioning sessions and daily practices during the season.
Our coaching staff brings university and professional playing and coaching experience to the court, helping students grow in skill, discipline, and confidence. Armbrae competes in both independent and public school leagues, giving our athletes strong competition and meaningful exposure.
Armbrae student-athletes are graduating into their universities of choice, with many continuing to play at the varsity level. At Armbrae you will not just receive an outstanding education, you will find a community that feels like family, preparing you for success in post secondary and in life. At Armbrae you will not just receive an outstanding education, you will find a community that feels like family, preparing you for success in post secondary and in life.
How to Apply to Armbrae Academy
Step 1: Complete an online application. Submit your application through Armbrae’s Admissions Portal at armbrae.ns.ca/apply and follow the instructions provided.
As part of the application, you will upload supporting documents such as recent report cards/transcripts, teacher reference(s), and proof of citizenship. If English is not your first language, please include proof of English proficiency. We accept official scores from Duolingo, IELTS, or TOEFL.
A non-refundable application fee is payable at the time you apply.
Step 2: Interview and entrance assessment
Once we’ve reviewed your application, selected candidates are invited to take part in an interview and entrance assessment. Families who are in Halifax may complete this in person. For international families who are unable to travel, we will arrange a virtual interview and an appropriate alternative for the entrance assessment.
Step 3: Admissions decisions
If you receive an offer of admission, you’ll be asked to confirm your acceptance by the deadline provided by the Admissions Office. To secure your place, a non-refundable registration fee is required.
English Proficiency
We accept Duolingo, IELTS, and TOEFL. While we don’t set strict minimum scores, Duolingo guidelines are: Gr 9: 90+ | Gr 10: 100+ | Gr 11: 130+. Applications are reviewed holistically, and EAL support may be recommended based on readiness
International students are an important and deeply valued part of Armbrae. They bring new perspectives, cultures, and experiences that enrich daily life here, and the friendships they build help make the world feel a little closer and more connected for everyone. Our International team includes three experienced Admissions Directors, a Registrar, a Business Development Director, and an EAL Director, all committed to supporting each student and family with care and clarity.
Tuition Fees + ISGC (family boarding program)
*Please note that Armbrae Academy has noted total fees to family to be inclusive). We want families to be able to plan fiscally for their child’s educational experience in Canada. All fees are in Canadian dollars.
Summary
All inclusive (6 Month) tuition and family boarding fees $39,900* (a la carte - optional items listed below)
All inclusive (10 Month) tuition and family boarding fees $66,500* (a la carte - optional items listed below)
Armbrae Academy – 6-Month Global Exchange Program
Program dates: September–February or January–June
Tuition with EAL: $21,000.00
Uniforms & Spirit Wear: $850.00
Co-curricular activities: $1,000.00
Field trips & experiences: $1,000.00
Entrance fee (one-time): $2,350.00
Total Program Fees: $26,200.00
ISGC Program Fees – 6-Month Global Exchange Program
ISGC application (one-time): $100.00
Custodianship / guardianship (annual): $1,200.00
Homestay placement (annual): $500.00
Homestay coordination (annual): $600.00
Homestay accommodation (6 months): $10,800.00
Student insurance – registration & claim administration (annual): $500.00
Total: $13,700.00
6-Month Program Total (Armbrae + ISGC): $26,200.00 CAD + $13,700.00 CAD = $39,900.00 CAD
Armbrae Academy – Full Year Program (10 Months: September–June)
Tuition with EAL: $35,000.00
Entrance fee (one-time): $4,000.00
Application fee Included
Uniforms & Spirit Wear (approx.): $850.00
Co-curricular activities: $1500.00
Field trips & experiences (approx.): $1500.00
Total (excluding waived application): $43,850.00
ISGC Program Fees – Full Year (10 Months)
ISGC application fee (one-time): $100.00
Custodianship / guardianship (annual): $1,900.00
Homestay placement fee – new student (one-time): $500.00
Homestay placement fee – returning student (one-time): $350.00
Annual homestay coordination fee: $1,000.00
Annual homestay accommodation fee: $18,000.00
Student insurance, registration & claims administration: $750.00
Total: $22,600.00
Full-Year Total (Armbrae + ISGC): $43,850.00 CAD + $22,600.00 CAD = $66,450.00 CAD
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International/EAL Students Tuition Fees
Contact Armbrae Academy or call us directly at 902-830-1418