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Strengths STEM, Academic Enrichment, Performing Arts
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Preschool, Kindergarten, Primary School, Middle School, High School
Introduction
Elmwood School is an independent all-girls school in Ottawa, Ontario, founded in 1915. Serving approximately 385 students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, Elmwood is the only school in the Ottawa region to offer all three levels of the International Baccalaureate programme. With an average class size of 15 students, the school combines the IB framework with the Ontario curriculum. The Class of 2024 achieved a 100% university acceptance rate, with CAD 15 million in scholarship offers and 46% pursuing STEM-related programmes. Elmwood is an Apple Distinguished School, one of only 19 in Canada, and is ranked among the top 25 private schools in the country. Students from 47 countries participate in 38 sports teams, 65 clubs, and a four-house system.
Elmwood School has 385 pupils, typical class sizes of 15, instruction in English.
Location
261 Buena Vista Road, Rockcliffe Park, Ottawa, Ontario, K1M 0V9, Canada
Stages
Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 (ages 3 to 18)
Type
Independent all-girls day school
Pupil Nationality Mix
Students from 47 countries are represented, creating a diverse international community
Additional learning support
Learning support services available for students with individual needs
Country affiliation
Canada
Religious affiliation
Non-denominational
School day structure
Full-day programme with optional before-school and after-school care available
Bus service
Transportation service is available for a separate fee
Fees
Annual tuition at Elmwood School ranges from CAD 18,800 to CAD 37,650 for 2026/27.
Annual tuition for 2026/27 ranges from CAD 18,800 (Pre-Kindergarten) to CAD 37,650 (Grades 1-12). An enrollment fee of CAD 4,000 to CAD 5,000 applies.
Academics
Elmwood School teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) for students aged 3 to 18.
Curriculum
Elmwood is the only school in the Ottawa region offering all three levels of the International Baccalaureate programme: the IB Primary Years Programme, the IB Middle Years Programme, and the IB Diploma Programme. The curriculum exceeds the expectations of the Ontario provincial curriculum and is evaluated by the IBO, Ontario Ministry of Education, and CAIS.
Student Teacher Ratio
Average class size of 15 students with 40% of faculty holding advanced degrees
Exam Results
Class of 2024: 100% university acceptance rate, CAD 15 million in total scholarship offers, 46% pursuing STEM-related post-secondary programmes
Higher Education Progression
University and Academic Counselling department guides all students. 100% of graduates are accepted to university with substantial scholarship offers.
Gifted and Talented
The full IB programme provides rigorous academic challenge. 46% of recent graduates pursued STEM-related programmes at university.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school employs best practices in girls' education to develop principled, knowledgeable, and reflective lifelong learners
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Learning support is available for students with individual needs. Contact the school for specific provisions.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Contact the school for EAL support information
Mental Wellbeing
Pastoral care and counselling services support student wellbeing throughout all divisions
Safeguarding
Comprehensive safeguarding policies and procedures are in place
Admissions
Admissions
Applications are accepted for the 2026-27 academic year. A non-refundable application fee of CAD 150 is required. Contact admissions at (613) 749-6761.
Scholarships
Scholarship opportunities are available. The Class of 2025 received CAD 15.2 million in total scholarship offers for university.
Waitlist
Contact the school for waitlist information by grade level
FAQs
Is Elmwood School an all-girls school?
Yes, Elmwood is an independent all-girls school serving students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12.
What curriculum does Elmwood follow?
Elmwood is the only school in the Ottawa region to offer all three levels of the International Baccalaureate: PYP, MYP, and DP. The IB framework is combined with the Ontario provincial curriculum.
What are the tuition fees?
For 2026/27, tuition is CAD 18,800 for Pre-Kindergarten, CAD 24,354 for Junior and Senior Kindergarten, and CAD 37,650 for Grades 1 through 12.
How many students attend?
Approximately 385 students from 47 countries are enrolled.
What is the class size?
The average class size is 15 students.
When was the school founded?
Elmwood was founded in 1915, with over a century of educating girls in Ottawa.
What is the university acceptance rate?
The Class of 2024 achieved a 100% university acceptance rate, with CAD 15 million in total scholarship offers.
How many sports teams are there?
There are 38 sports teams, and 72% of Middle and Senior students compete in at least one sport.
How many clubs are offered?
65 clubs are available covering a wide range of academic, creative, and social interests.
Does the school have a house system?
Yes, four houses compete for the House Cup throughout the year.
Is the school an Apple Distinguished School?
Yes, Elmwood is one of only 19 schools in Canada to hold this designation.
Does the school offer boarding?
No, Elmwood is a day school only.
Is transportation available?
Yes, transportation services are available for a separate fee.
How do I apply?
Apply online through the school website. A non-refundable application fee of CAD 150 is required.
Is there a uniform?
Yes, a school uniform is required. Estimated costs range from CAD 400 for Pre-K to CAD 1,000 for Middle and Senior School.
