If you’re an international student considering how to make the most of your summer in Canada, there are a wide variety of programs designed specifically with you in mind. These summer programs for international high school students in Canada go beyond sightseeing; they offer a chance to deepen your understanding of Canadian culture, improve your English or French language skills, and explore academic interests in a new environment.
Whether you’re interested in science, business, the arts, or language immersion, there’s a program that can help you grow both personally and academically. Many of these summer programs for international high school students in Canada include interactive workshops, hands-on learning, cultural excursions, and opportunities to meet other international students from around the world.
Here’s a curated list of 15 summer programs for international high school students in Canada!
15 Summer Programs for International High School Students in Canada
1. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies by program type (full financial aid available)
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including summer
Eligibility: Current high school students with a GPA of 3.3/4; No prior knowledge required
During Lumiere Research Scholars’ 12-week academic program, high school students will be able to conduct independent research under virtual guidance. As a participant, you will be paired with a Ph.D. mentor and work closely with them to develop and execute a research project in a subject area of your choice. Some available topics include fields such as psychology, physics, economics, and data science, among others. Throughout the program, you will learn how to structure a research project, analyze information or data, and effectively communicate your findings.
2. Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP)
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies by program type; Full financial aid is available
Application Deadlines: Varies by cohort
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts in a year
Eligibility: High school students with a GPA above 3.67/4.0; Most accepted students are 10th and 11th graders; Only a few tracks require formal prerequisites—more details are available here
Horizon runs trimester-length research programs for high school students interested in exploring topics such as data science, machine learning, political theory, and related areas. You can focus on either quantitative or qualitative research, depending on your interests. Once you select a subject track, you’ll be matched with a professor or Ph.D. researcher who will guide you through the process of developing and writing a 20-page research paper. Horizon also offers written feedback on your work and a letter of recommendation, which may support your future academic goals.
3. UBC Future Global Leaders Program
Location: University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, or online
Cost: Varies by course and format; Financial aid offered
Application Deadline: No formal deadline; Registration remains open until sessions are full
Program Dates:
- On campus : Session 1: July 7 – 18 | Session 2: July 21 – August 1 | Session 3: August 4 – 15
- Online: Session 1: July 7 – 25 | Session 2: July 28 – August 15
Eligibility: High school students aged 15-18; Should have completed grade 10 with a 78% average or equivalent; Non-native English speakers are advised to have an IELTS of 6.0 or TOEFL 80+
The Future Global Leaders Program is a summer academic experience for high school students offered by the University of British Columbia. You can attend either in person at the Vancouver campus or participate online, depending on your preference. During the program, you’ll take courses taught by UBC faculty and instructors in subjects such as business, science, international relations, and technology. In addition to academic classes, you’ll join workshops and group activities that focus on skills like communication, teamwork, and leadership. The program is designed to introduce you to university-style learning and help you start thinking about your path after high school. At the end, you’ll receive a letter confirming your participation.
4. University of Toronto’s Youth Summer Program – Law Track
Location: University of Toronto, Toronto, CA
Cost: CA$98 registration fee | Summer module fee: CA$1,175
Application Deadline: Registration opens February 12 and closes when modules are full; Apply as early as possible
Program Dates: Depending on the module; July – August
Eligibility: Open to high school students in grades 10-12
If you’re an international high school student interested in law, the Youth Summer Program (YSP) at the University of Toronto offers a chance to explore this field in more depth. Held each summer at U of T’s downtown campus, the program is structured around week-long modules that focus on either medicine or law. In the law stream, you’ll attend lectures, take part in workshops, and engage in practical activities like legal simulations and case discussions. These sessions are designed to give you a better understanding of how law is studied at the university level and what a legal career might involve. You’ll also have the chance to hear from current students and professionals, helping you understand different legal career paths and what’s involved in applying to law school in the future.
5. University of Toronto: Leadership Education & Academic Preparation (LEAP)
Location: University of Toronto or on-site at participating schools/agencies in Toronto
Cost: Varies depending on group size and workshop duration; Quotes available upon request
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Available year-round; Dates arranged in consultation with the group
Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18; Strong English proficiency preferred
The LEAP workshops at the University of Toronto offer international high school students an opportunity to build communication and leadership skills in a structured academic setting. These summer programs are designed to support skill development in areas such as critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork. As a participant, you’ll engage in interactive sessions that explore topics like academic integrity, group decision-making, and how to work effectively in diverse teams. Workshops vary in length, from one to five days, and are facilitated by trained staff from the university. The program can be a helpful introduction to university-level expectations around communication and collaboration, especially if you’re considering studying in Canada in the future.
6. University of Toronto’s Youth Summer Program – Medicine Track
Location: University of Toronto, St. George Campus
Cost: CA$1,668 + CA$98 registration fee
Program Dates: Depending on the module; From June 30 – August 15
Application Deadline: Opens on February 12; Apply as early as possible
Eligibility: Students in grades 10-12; 9th graders can apply for the Microbiology module
Students who enroll in the University of Toronto’s Med YSP program gain a focused introduction to science and medicine through four one-week modules. In Human Physiology, you’ll study systems like the heart, lungs, and kidneys. Pharmacology & Toxicology looks at how drugs interact with the body. Molecular Biology and Genetics covers techniques like gene editing and DNA analysis, while Microbiology involves hands-on labs to study microbes. Each module includes expert-led lectures, lab work, and discussions, offering a practical look at medical sciences and what studying them at university might involve.
7. The Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program (DEEP)
Location: University of Toronto, St George Campus, CA
Cost: CA$ 1,100 per week for international students; CA$50-CA$60 application fee
Application Deadline:
- Round 1: February 25 – March 23
- Round 2: March 24 – April 13
Program Dates: Various sessions from July 7 – August 15
Eligibility: High school students who have completed at least one year in high school; Grade 9/10 program applicants should have completed grade 9 math and science courses by June; Grade 11/12 program applicants should have completed grade 11 math and science courses by June
The Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program (DEEP) at the University of Toronto offers international high school students the chance to explore university-level topics in science, technology, engineering, and related areas. You’ll take part in lectures and hands-on activities that focus on problem-solving and collaboration. The courses reflect early undergraduate content and are taught by instructors with academic or research experience, including PhD students and senior undergraduates. DEEP provides a structured introduction to the pace and expectations of university study in technical fields, helping you better understand what to expect if you’re considering post-secondary education in these areas.
8. UC Summer Drama for International Students
Location: University of Toronto, Ontario, CA
Cost: CA$6,500
Application Deadline: July 1
Program Dates: July 13 – August 2
Eligibility: High school students aged 15-18
The University College Performing Arts Summer Program in Toronto offers international high school students an opportunity to develop skills in either Acting or Digital Media & Sound Design over three weeks. The program combines courses, labs, and workshops to provide practical experience in these areas. A notable feature of the program is its use of AI technologies through projects conducted at the University of Toronto’s BMO Lab. You’ll collaborate on research-based work alongside students from different countries, exploring how technology is influencing the performing arts. This program provides insight into both creative and technical aspects of the field.
9. Daniels Design Discovery Program
Location: 1 Spadina Crescent, Toronto, CA
Cost: CA$1,550 + HST (per course); Financial aid available
Application Deadline: Offered on a first-come, first-served basis
Program Dates:
- Course 1: June 30 – July 11 (session 1) | July 28 – August 8 (session 2)
- Course 2: July 14 – 25 (session 1) | August 11 – 22 (session 2)
Eligibility: High school students (14-18) interested in architecture
The Daniels Design Discovery Program at the University of Toronto offers international high school students an introduction to architecture through two focused courses. The program explores design principles, spatial thinking, and visual communication, with an emphasis on hands-on learning. You’ll work in the Daniels Faculty’s design studios at 1 Spadina Crescent and be guided by experienced instructors. The courses encourage critical thinking about the built environment and provide a foundation for those considering future studies in architecture or related fields. The program is open to English-speaking students from around the world.
10. International Summer Academy: Youth International English Program
Location: University of Toronto, CA
Cost: CA$5,400 – CA$5,575, depending on the course
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Offered throughout June, July, and August
Eligibility: For students between the ages of 13-18 across all English levels
The Youth IEP is a three-week summer program designed to help international high school students improve their English language skills. It is open to students at all levels, from beginner to advanced. As a participant, you’ll take a required morning English course that focuses on language development. In the afternoons, you can choose to take an additional course or join organized activities. Evenings and weekends include group events and excursions, providing opportunities to practice English in social settings and explore local culture. The program offers a balanced mix of academic learning and cultural experience in an English-speaking environment.
11. CISS Canada Summer Programmes
Location: Various locations throughout Canada
Cost: Varies based on selected program
Application Deadline: Multiple opportunities open throughout the year, including summer
Program Dates: Varies depending on the program
Eligibility: Canadian and International high school students; Specific requirements vary by program
If you’re considering a summer program in Canada, CISS offers a range of options that allow you to experience both education and everyday life in a meaningful way. Whether you’re interested in a traditional summer camp, an English language program in a city setting, or an outdoor adventure experience, the programs are designed to help you learn while having fun. For high school students, there’s flexibility to choose what suits you best — whether it’s an academically focused environment, specific courses, or a school known for sports. This variety means you can find a setting that fits your goals and interests. The Study Tours program is especially useful for the summer if you want to improve your English in a real-world context. You’ll have the chance to attend a Canadian high school, live with a host family, and take part in cultural and recreational activities that reflect daily life in Canada.
12. University of Toronto: Advanced Academic Program
Location: University of Toronto, CA
Cost: CA$4,725 – CA$6,100 , depending on the course
Application Deadline: Varies based on session
Program Dates: Multiple sessions offered from June to August
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12
The Advanced Academic Program (AAP) at the University of Toronto offers international high school students a three-week academic experience in a university setting. Designed for students with a strong command of English, the program focuses on developing academic skills through coursework, discussions, and project-based learning. You’ll be enrolled in both morning and afternoon classes that reflect the structure and expectations of a Canadian university. The program includes an independent research project and a final academic presentation. Outside the classroom, you’ll take part in evening activities and weekend excursions, allowing you to connect with other students and experience life in Toronto.
13. Richmond International Education Summer Camps
Location: Richmond, British Columbia, CA
Cost: CA$2,790
Application Deadline: First-come come, first-served basis; Apply here
Program Dates:
- Session 1: July 7 – 25
- Session 2: July 28 – August 15
Eligibility: Students from grade 3 to grade 12; Homestay options available for students between the ages of 13-18
The 3- and 6-week Summer Camps in Metro Vancouver offer international high school students a chance to improve their English while experiencing life in British Columbia. Classes are led by certified teachers using the BC curriculum, and the program combines language learning with cultural exploration. You’ll attend English lessons three days a week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), focusing on communication skills, vocabulary, and practical language use. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the program includes full-day activities that allow you to explore the local area, visit cultural and natural sites, and practice your English in real-world situations. The program is designed to balance classroom learning with interactive, experience-based education, making it a good option if you’re looking to build language skills while getting to know Canadian culture and the Vancouver region.
14. Delta School District International Summer Program
Location: British Columbia, CA
Cost: Unspecified; Check here for information
Application Deadline: Unspecified; Application form here
Program Dates: July 5 – 25 | August 3 – 23
Eligibility: For international students aged 10 and older
The Delta Summer ELL Camp is a three-week program for international students aged 10 and up, offered in July and August. Open to students of all English levels, it combines language classes with cultural experiences in Metro Vancouver. For the first two weeks, you’ll focus on reading, writing, speaking, and listening through themed lessons led by certified BC teachers. The final week includes morning classes and afternoon field trips to local sites like Stanley Park and Granville Island. You can join as an individual or with a group, and stay with a Canadian host family, a private homestay, or your parents. The program offers a practical way to build English skills and experience life in Canada.
15. Ottawa Carlton District School: Summer English Explorer Program
Location: Ottawa, CA
Cost: CA$1,700 – CA$3,850
Application Deadline: Unspecified; Check here for more details.
Program Dates: July 7 – August 1
Eligibility: Students between the ages of 13-18
The Summer English Explorer (SEE) Program in Ottawa offers international high school students the chance to study English while experiencing life in Canada’s capital. The program runs for two to six weeks, with flexible start dates throughout the summer. You’ll attend English language classes aligned with the CEFR levels, helping you build skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. In the afternoons, you’ll take part in a variety of activities such as cultural outings, sports, and Canadian-themed events that support your language development in practical settings. The program is open to individuals and groups, with options for chaperoned participation. It provides a balanced experience of classroom learning and cultural exploration.
Image source – Ottawa Carlton District School