Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Ottawa

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, offers a diverse range of educational options for expat and digital nomad families. While it may not have the sheer volume of international or bilingual schools found in some of the world's largest cities, Ottawa still boasts a selection of reputable institutions that cater to the needs of international students. Among the most popular are the Ashbury College and the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board's International Baccalaureate (IB) schools. Here is a curated list of international and bilingual schools within a 40-minute drive from Ottawa, providing quality education for expat children.

Ashbury College

Grades: 4 through 12
Location(s): Rockcliffe Park, Ottawa
Website: www.ashbury.ca

Ashbury College is a coeducational independent school that offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme alongside a rigorous curriculum. With a blend of traditional and innovative teaching methods, the school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body representing over 50 nationalities.

Elmwood School

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Rockcliffe Park, Ottawa
Website: www.elmwood.ca

Elmwood School is an independent day school for girls that offers the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. Known for its empowering environment, Elmwood focuses on leadership, social justice, and global engagement, providing students with a well-rounded education.

Lycée Claudel

Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Alta Vista, Ottawa
Website: www.claudel.org

Lycée Claudel is a French international school affiliated with the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE). It offers a curriculum based on the French National Education system and culminates in the French Baccalaureate. The school is known for its rigorous academics and multicultural environment.

Macdonald-Cartier Academy

Grades: 7 through 8
Location(s): Central Ottawa
Website: www.mcacademy.ca

Macdonald-Cartier Academy is a bilingual private middle school that provides an enriched curriculum in both English and French. With a focus on academic excellence, personal growth, and bilingualism, the school prepares students for success in high school and beyond.

Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Various locations in Ottawa
Website: www.ocdsb.ca

The OCDSB offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme at several of its schools, providing a globally recognized education. The IB schools within the OCDSB are known for their strong academic programs, international-mindedness, and commitment to developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people.

Turnbull School

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 8
Location(s): Central Ottawa
Website: www.turnbull.ca

Turnbull School is an independent day school that offers a challenging curriculum with an emphasis on character development, leadership, and community service. With small class sizes and a nurturing environment, Turnbull School is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and personal growth.

Ottawa Christian School

Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 8
Location(s): Barrhaven, Ottawa
Website: www.ocschool.org

Ottawa Christian School provides a Christ-centered education that integrates faith with learning. Offering a bilingual program in both English and French, the school is committed to academic excellence and developing students who are equipped to engage and transform society.