Grade 9: WISS International Student University Express Program

Beginning your high school education career at WISS has many benefits. One benefit is that students who begin in grade 9 and have four full years of English language education may be able to forgo the English language tests that many universities require.

For example, the University of Toronto requires:

“You may qualify for an exemption from the English facility requirement if one of the following applies to you:

• You have completed/are completing four or more years of full-time academic study in a recognized Canadian school (in Canada) that teaches in English”

If a student begins in grade 9, that will give them four years of full-time academic study.

Another reason why it’s a great choice to begin in grade 9 is that it provides students with consistency throughout their high school career. It also gives students several years to learn English, better understand Canadian culture and become comfortable in their new community.

It is easy to apply to WISS. Before applying, there are a few things that each applicant must provide:

• Official school transcript(s)

• Application and registration fees

• Language assessment

• Online interview completed

To learn more about applying at WISS, you can check out information for applying as an International student or applying as a Canadian student.

While attending WISS, students have the option to live at our student residence housing. We are committed to ensuring your child feels safe and comfortable while living in residence. The student residence is located in a wonderful and safe community just minutes away from the school campus.

WISS also offers students a homestay option, where WISS arranges for students to live with a local family. Every family is carefully screened and approved by WISS before they are paired with a student. The homestay program allows for a warm and friendly “home away from home” experience.

Yes. Students enrolled in the UEP are also prepared for a number of exams including:

• SAT exams

• IELTS exams

• TOEFL exams

• AP exams

Preparation for these exams may be crucial for university admission depending on the program your child is applying to.

From 2018 - 2020:

• 40% of WISS graduates were accepted to the University of Waterloo

• 35% were accepted to the University of Toronto

• 10% were accepted to McMaster University

• 10% were accepted to Wilfrid Laurier University

• 5% were accepted to other universities including Queen’s University, Western University, Ryerson University, and more.

Our school facility in Waterloo, where your grade 9 UEP student will study, offers a wide range of benefits. Our bright and modern school building boasts natural light, a range of study spaces, and a spacious and child-friendly environment.

On-campus, we also offer:

• A library

• Safe and fun play spaces

• On-campus garden

• Trails and parks within close walking distance from the campus

Students will enjoy a wide range of spaces to quietly study, connect with their peers, and enjoy themselves.

For a full breakdown of costs, including tuition, application fees, residence fees, and more, click here.