Getting Started in Canada - Education Canada

Canada Schools

The provincial governments administer the Canadian education system in the provinces through the Department or Ministry of Education.
Find out more about the Ministry of Education in your province

• Children begin education at elementary school in Grade 1, usually at the age of six. Kindergarten or preschool is voluntary. 
• Preteens and teenagers attend secondary school.
• Public schools provide free education. Private schools in Canada charge tuition fees.
• Separate schools allow children to adhere to certain religious beliefs. Home schooling is also an option.
• Birth certificates and identification, such as a passport or permanent residence card, are required to enrol your child in a school.
• The school may require you to submit records of previously attended schools.
• After secondary school education, children can pursue postsecondary education at universities or colleges.

HSBC Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs)

Designed to help you save money for a child’s postsecondary education, RESPs are tax-effective, government-supported savings program.

• Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG)
  Every child under the age of 18 is entitled to receive the federal governments CESG for education purposes.
• Canada Learning Bond (CLB)
  Canadian resident low-income families who are entitled to the National Child Benefit Supplement may be eligible for more help.
• Alberta Centennial Education Savings Plan (ACES)
  Children born and residing in Alberta in 2005 or after may receive a one-time payment of C$500 into their RESP.

Find out more about RESPs: Call 1-800-830-8888
or visit a branch near you