Studying at Waterloo Catholic Schools, we pre-arrange a seamless transition for International; Students into our schools and community. Ensuring that students are able to navigate the requirements for enrolling in our program with ease so that when they arrive in Canada the most enjoyable part of school life with new friends in a new school can begin. In collaboration with teachers, guidance counselors and administrators at the schools, it is the objective of our experienced and dedicated staff to provide the best personal and educational experience for all of our International students.
Waterloo Catholic Schools are progressive and welcome students from all walks of life from around the world, no matter their English language proficiency, academic scores, and religious or non-religious backgrounds. All are welcome at Waterloo Catholic Schools. Keep reading to find out how we make it easy for international student admissions.
Experience a Hands-On Intake Process at Our English Catholic School
Waterloo Catholic Schools are prepared to help with the student admissions process as much as possible. A step-by-step guide to your admissions process for our English Catholic school can be found online here, and the International Education Services staff are happy to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.
Waterloo Catholic Schools also work with partner agents who can help support families throughout the visa application process, making sure the forms are complete and submitted to the appropriate destinations. From the moment students arrive in Canada, our Full Service approach makes sure that students are cared for, and ensures that a high standard of care is provided until it is time for them to return home to their parents.
A hands-on approach to the intake process for international students makes the admissions process seamless at our Catholic international school
A Custodianship Requirement Ensures Extra Support While Abroad
A unique offering to Waterloo Catholic Schools is our Custodianship requirement that involves our dedicated faculty and staff who prioritize each student’s safety and wellness. We provide custodianship at the District level, and students are able to remain in the care of their custodians in the absence of their parents. By acting as custodian for our students we are able to ensure that student well being and safety are always at the forefront of their International experience. Our staff are able to support students in the challenges they face in school and with living abroad, helping them to develop their independence while staying connected to their families.
Personalized Homestays Make for an Easy Adjustment
Students who are not living with family or friends while attending the Waterloo Catholic schools are able to participate in our Homestay program. Our home stay service is offered through two third party companies that manage all aspects of the program and work closely with our International Education Services staff. All homestay families must complete applications, interviews, home inspections and police record checks. Student safety and comfort are always our first priority. Our home stays include three meals a day, a private bedroom with a dedicated study area, supervised internet access, regular check-ins from the homestay coordinator and a welcoming, supportive family environment. Having a space to call their own is important for students to feel comfortable and motivated to do their best when it comes to academic and personal development.
With access to the best accommodations found at our Catholic international school, students don’t have to worry about feeling stranded in an uncomfortable situation. Waterloo Catholic School arranged homestays and custodians also serve as advocates for students in all aspects of their daily life, addressing any academic or personal challenges they may face.
Waterloo Catholic Schools Provide a Full Service Model for Students
From the moment students complete their online application to attend school in Waterloo their personalized care begins. The intake process begins in the Spring with online English and Mathematics assessments along with a virtual oral assessment to help form a full picture of each student’s learning needs. This is followed with virtual meetings with school counselors and their Waterloo Catholic custodians to help answer any questions and select courses for the following school year. Our goal is for all students to have their September classes selected and timetables created by June – allowing for students to take the courses they require and are interested in.
The Full Service approach found at Waterloo Catholic Schools ensures the ongoing support of each and every student from the moment they arrive in Canada
Once students arrive in Toronto, transportation is provided to Waterloo. Upon arrival in Waterloo students are met by International Education Services staff and stay at a local hotel while waiting for their negative Covid test. For students who are fully vaccinated, the hotel stay is at no cost. Prior to school beginning a comprehensive orientation program is provided for students. During this week long orientation, students participate in a variety of activities including cultural experiences, tours of their schools and the Region. Orientation week provides students with the opportunity to meet other International and Canadian students, while having fun and learning more about their new community.
In addition to the custodianship and homestays, international students receive care and support from other staff members at the school level, such as an international guidance counselor who helps with academic and career planning, an ESL monitor, an administrator, and an International Certificate Advisor who supports both International and Canadian students enrolled in our International Programs. Individualized support in this manner is unmatched elsewhere and ensures the full support and care for each student based on their personal needs.
Waterloo Catholic Schools are here to provide an inclusive, innovative, and thriving community for all students to give them an experience of a lifetime.
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