Finding out about education in Quebec

The Québec education system is comprised of a public education network that ranges from kindergarten to university.

Education is free for all Québec residents, from kindergarten to college inclusively. The Québec public education system is secular and language-based (French and English) according to the language of instruction in the schools. Since French is the official language of Québec, children of immigrants, regardless of their mother tongue, are usually required to attend a local establishment of the French school board until the end of secondary studies. In addition, mixed gender classes are the norm at all levels of education.

A private network of schools is also recognized by the Ministère de l’Éducation, du Loisir et du Sport. These institutions also offer the official school program. To attend these schools, students must pay tuition fees and fulfill specific entrance requirements.

School attendance is mandatory for all children between the ages of 6 and 16. The school year begins at the end of the month of August or the beginning of the month of September and usually ends before June 24, for a duration of at least 180 days.

Preschool, elementary and secondary education
College education
University education
Adult or continuing education

Useful links

• Ministère de l’Éducation, du Loisir et du Sport :
  • Le système d’enseignement québécois (The Québec education system)
  • Langue d’enseignement (Language of instruction)
  • Réseau d'établissements privés (Network of private educational institutions)
  • Statistiques sur l’éducation (Education statistics)