🇨🇦 HIGH SCHOOL SHORT-TERM EXCHANGE
1, 2 or 3 Months in a Canadian High School
REGISTRATION — NOW OPEN —
Start your Canadian school experience on January 30th 2027
Not ready to spend a full semester or academic year abroad? You don't have to.
With our Short-Term High School Exchange, students can choose to spend 1, 2 or 3 months studying at a Canadian public high school on Vancouver Island, living with a local host family and experiencing everyday Canadian student life.
Why Choose 1–3 Months?
A short-term exchange gives students enough time to experience something completely different from tourism, while making it possible to return to their school at home without spending an entire academic year abroad.
It can be particularly valuable for students who want to:
✓ Experience a Canadian high school before deciding on a semester or full year abroad
✓ Become more confident speaking English
✓ Experience living away from home in a safe and supported environment
✓ Make Canadian and international friends
✓ Discover a different education system
✓ Develop independence, confidence and leadership skills
✓ Experience Canadian culture from the inside
✓ Experience studying abroad without committing to a full academic year away from your school in Poland
✓ Choose a shorter stay if you are not yet ready or confident enough for a semester or full-year exchange
✓ Take the first step towards a longer international experience in the future
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
School by the Pacific. Mountains at the weekend.
Vancouver Island offers a unique environment for a first exchange abroad. Winters on the coast are among the mildest in Canada, while the mountains offer real snow and winter sports. As spring arrives, students can experience the island's forests, beaches, ocean and outdoor lifestyle.
Mild by the ocean. Snowy in the mountains. Canadian all the way.
Spring on Vancouver Island
Spring on Vancouver Island arrives early and brings the island back to life. While many people imagine Canada covered in snow, the West Coast is different — green forests, colourful gardens, ocean views and increasingly long, bright days create a beautiful setting from March through June.
Cherry blossoms and spring flowers appear across towns and neighbourhoods, while the mountains can still have snow in the distance. It is a unique combination: snow-capped peaks, green landscapes and the Pacific Ocean all in one view. The mild coastal climate means more time outdoors. Spring is perfect for sailing, hiking, kayaking, cycling, beach walks and exploring the coastline. As the days become longer, students can enjoy outdoor activities even after school.
Wildlife is another part of island life. Eagles, seals and other marine wildlife are commonly associated with the coast, and spring marks the beginning of a particularly active season on and around the water.
By May and June, the island feels increasingly like summer — longer evenings, warmer days, busy harbours, beaches and plenty of opportunities to spend time outside.
Spring here isn't just a season — it's the Pacific Coast lifestyle coming alive.
Choose Your Exchange
1 MONTH in Canada 🇨🇦
January 30 – end of February
A perfect first experience abroad. Attend a Canadian high school, live with a host family, improve your English naturally and experience a mild winter on Vancouver Island.
During February, international student activities may include:
Mt. Washington – date TBC
Ice Skating – February 17 & 18
Bowling – February 25
Perfect for: students who want to try a Canadian high-school experience without a long commitment.
2 MONTHS in Canada 🇨🇦 🇨🇦
January 30 – end of March
Stay longer, build friendships and become part of your Canadian school community. In addition to the February activities, March brings some incredible opportunities:
🏔️ Whistler – March 3–5
🌌 Yukon – March 16–19
🏙️ Toronto – March 22–26
🌎 Ecuador & Galapagos – March 14–24
Some trips are optional and subject to availability and additional fees.
Perfect for: students who want deeper immersion, stronger English development and enough time to really settle into Canadian life.
3 MONTHS in Canada 🇨🇦 🇨🇦 🇨🇦
January 30 – end of April
Three months gives students the opportunity to go beyond simply visiting Canada — they can begin to feel that they belong there. Students experience February and March school life and can continue into an exciting spring program.
April opportunities may include:
Vancouver Overnight & Hockey Game – April 6–7
Victoria Trip – April 16 (tentative)
Rocky Mountains & Drumheller – April 23–26
Surfing – date TBC
Perfect for: students looking for meaningful academic and cultural immersion without committing to a full semester or year.
Go to School in Canada
This is not a language course and not a holiday camp.
Students are enrolled in a Canadian public high school and experience regular school life alongside Canadian and international students.They attend classes, meet teachers, make friends and can experience subjects and electives that may be very different from those offered at home. Depending on school placement and availability, courses may include subjects such as:
English • Mathematics • Science • Social Studies • Physical Education • Art • Foods • Technology • Leadership and other electives
Much More Than School
One of the biggest advantages of joining the program during the second semester is the range of experiences that may become available to international students. Depending on the length of your exchange, you could experience everything from:
skiing on Vancouver Island → Whistler → Vancouver → Victoria → the Rocky Mountains → surfing on the Pacific Coast.
And students staying longer can continue into May and June with opportunities such as sailing, WildPlay and the international student farewell celebration and beach day.
Trips and activities vary by date, availability and school district. Some are optional and require an additional fee.
Your Exchange. Your Choice.
Book a meeting
with our representative in Poland
for more information or registration
Why Vancouver Island and Canada?
We haven chosen Vancouver Island because it offers something big cities cannot: a safe, friendly, authentic Canadian environment where students can truly thrive. Instead of the noise, stress and distractions of large urban centres, Vancouver Island provides welcoming communities, stunning coastal nature, ocean life, and the real Canadian lifestyle. Here, students feel comfortable, supported and connected — not overwhelmed.
We proudly collaborate with the University of Victoria, giving our students access to high-quality leadership training, personality development, and life-coaching experiences that strengthen confidence and emotional intelligence. This combination of safety, ocean-side living, small-town kindness, world-class education, and leadership growth creates the perfect environment for international students. Vancouver Island is not just a place to study — it’s where students experience the true Canadian spirit and discover who they are.
Nanaimo–Ladysmith School District - SD68
(Central Vancouver Island)
Schools known for strong academics, excellent sports and arts programs, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
School and Course Offerrings:
- Population of 1400 students
- Enjoys a proud tradition of academic and athletic success
- Has an outstanding Performing Arts Academy and well equipped shops to explore woodwork, metalwork, mechanics, robotics, culinary arts and textiles
- Is well known for environmental initiatives and excellence in mathematics and computer technology.
- School website for more details: dv.schools.sd68.bc.ca
- Population of 1700 students
- A vibrant student group that embraces diversity and ensures everyone feels welcome
- Draws students from across the district to its Sports Academies
- Easy access to premier athletic facilities including an all season track, turf fields, Olympic sized swimming pool, and skating arenas
- Has well established Outdoor Education – West Coast Wilderness Studies program, career trades, wide range of performing arts electives and sports team opportunities.
- School website for more details: nd.schools.sd68.bc.ca
- Population of 1000 students
- Students choose Wellington for its nationally acclaimed Jazz Academy, Musical Theatre department, language learning opportunities, enriched fine arts experiences, technology programs with a focus on 3D animation and printing, outdoor education, and its variety of athletics, clubs and activities.
- Wellington is a newly updated building with a unique West Coast design interior and an abundance of natural light
- School website for more details: we.schools.sd68.bc.ca
- Population of 700 students
- Known for engaging learners with experiential courses like leadership, athletic training, chef-training, digital photography, trades and robotics.
- Athletic excellence in American football, rugby, boys’ basketball and girls’ volleyball
- Bulldog Theatre, fine arts and photography programs give students an opportunity to showcase their talents.
- School website for more details: jb.schools.sd68.bc.ca
- Population of 650 students
- Located in the picturesque hillside town of Ladysmith that is known for its warmth and charm
- Known for its dynamic extracurricular programs, strong athletic traditions, a vibrant Improv club and a celebrated Musical Theatre program.
- Proud to offer opportunities to learn about local Indigenous culture and connect with Vancouver Island, including Outdoor Education – West Coast Wilderness Studies and Land and Language courses: landbased.ca/
- School website for more details: ls.schools.sd68.bc.ca
- Population of 275 students
- A hidden gem tucked away in rural Cedar
- Offers a unique learning experience that suits students who enjoy small classes, independent personalized learning and an educational setting where everyone knows your name
- Students develop strong critical, creative and collaborative thinking skills that prepares them well for a future of further learning.
- School website for more details: cs.schools.sd68.bc.ca
📘 Download Nanaimo–Ladysmith School District & School Brochures
Individual School Selection
Final school placement is always discussed individually with students and parents. During consultations, we explain:
- academic strengths and graduation pathways,
- electives, sports, and creative programs,
- school size and community feel,
- suitability for short-term or full-year programs.
This ensures every student starts their Canadian high school journey feeling confident, supported, and excited.
Who Is This Program For?
This program is open to students from the age of 12 and above, including those who wish to enter a Canadian high school and complete their secondary education abroad. Students may study in Canada short-term or continue their education through high school and graduate with a Canadian high school diploma, which can be used for further education in Canada or internationally. More important than age alone is the student’s emotional maturity, independence, and readiness for an international environment. During our meetings, we carefully assess whether a student is ready to live abroad, adapt to a new school system, and communicate their needs, ensuring the experience is safe, supportive, and developmentally appropriate.
Program Investment – A Leadership Perspective
When viewed on a monthly basis, the cost of the program is comparable to private education in Poland and, in some cases, only slightly higher. What makes the difference is that this program offers far more than schooling alone — it is a complete leadership and personal growth experience in a real Canadian high school environment.
The monthly investment includes public high school education, full accommodation with a carefully matched host family, daily meals, and continuous academic, emotional, and wellbeing support. Students develop independence, confidence, responsibility, and communication skills — qualities that shape strong, resilient young leaders.
Rather than focusing on one large annual figure, many families find it more helpful to see the program as a monthly investment in their child’s future, character, and global mindset. Final costs depend on the program length (4, 6, or 10 months), school district, and the individual needs of the student.
PROGRAM FEES
Experience life as a Canadian high school student — without committing to a full semester or academic year.
Our short-term exchange programs give students the opportunity to attend a Canadian public high school, live with a local host family, improve their English and experience everyday life in Canada. Each program is individually designed around the student, their goals, interests and preferred dates.
Choose Your Exchange
1 Month in Canada
approx. PLN 18,000–19,000
A perfect first Canadian school experience. Discover a different education system, improve your English and experience everyday life in a Canadian community.
2 Months in Canada
approx. PLN 30,000–31,000
More time to settle into school, develop friendships, gain confidence in English and become part of the local community.
3 Months in Canada
Price available upon request
A more immersive experience that gives students time to become truly involved in Canadian school life, build meaningful relationships and grow both academically and personally.
Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the CAD/PLN exchange rate
What Can Your Program Include?
- Canadian public high school education
- English Language Development (ELD) and student support services
- Additional ESL / ELD language support
- School textbooks and educational materials
- School yearbook
- School locker
- Selected school and program activities
- Homestay with a local Canadian family
- Full board – 3 meals per day and accommodation
- Host Family / Homestay monitoring and intervention support
- Custodianship and local guardianship support in Canada
- School bus transportation
- Medical insurance
- Pick-up from Nanaimo Airport (YCD) and return airport transfer
- Pre-departure preparation
- Ongoing local support throughout the student’s stay in Canada
What is NOT inlcuded?:
- Flight Ticket to Canada (Poland – Nanaimo)
- High School Trips (Surfing, Rocky Mountains etc.)
Thinking About Staying Longer?
Programs of 4 months or more are structured and priced differently from our 1–3 month short-term exchanges. Longer programs offer better value per month, including semester and full academic year options. Their pricing is calculated separately and should not be estimated based on the 1–3 month rates above.
Ask About Costs & Book a Consultation 📩
Because every student’s journey is unique, detailed pricing is shared individually.
We invite parents to complete a short enquiry form and book an online meeting,
during which we:
- explain all program options and timelines,
- discuss costs clearly and transparently,
- present suitable schools and host family options,
- focus on wellbeing, readiness, and leadership development.
Why Choose the Polish Academy of Canada?
Because this is more than an exchange.
It’s a guided leadership journey.
At the Polish Academy of Canada, we combine world-class Canadian education with intentional leadership and personal growth. Every student is supported — academically, emotionally, and personally — from the first conversation to the return home.
Our Difference: Leadership with Heart
Leadership is not an add-on. It is the foundation of our program.
Students benefit from:
- structured leadership and personal development programs,
- communication and relationship-building training,
- Values & Goals and Kindness & Empathy courses,
- continuous life-coach and emotional support.
Selected students also participate in university-level leadership courses, helping them understand their strengths, motivation, and natural leadership style — skills that last far beyond the program.
More Than a School Year
A True Transformation
Students don’t just return with better English or stronger academic skills.
They return as more confident, emotionally mature, resilient, and self-aware young people — ready for the future and proud of who they are becoming.
Canada is more than a school year.
It’s a transformation that lasts a lifetime.
Carefully Selected Host Families
Host families are never random.
Together with parents, we carefully match each student based on personality, values, lifestyle, and individual needs — creating a safe, warm, and welcoming home where students truly belong.
The Result?
- Confident young people
- Stronger communication skills
- Real independence
- Leadership that shows
- at school
- at home
- in life
Vancouver Island Experience 🌊
— Included in Our Offer
We have chosen Vancouver Island intentionally. It offers something large cities simply cannot:
a safe, friendly, and authentic Canadian environment where international students can truly thrive.
Set between the Pacific Ocean and lush mountains, Vancouver Island is known for its welcoming communities, strong school spirit, and relaxed West Coast lifestyle. Instead of noise, pressure, and distractions, students experience a calm, supportive atmosphere where they feel comfortable, connected, and confident.
This unique environment allows students to focus on learning, personal growth, and meaningful relationships — while enjoying some of the most beautiful nature in the world.
Real Canadian Life 🌿
— Built Into the Program
Life on Vancouver Island naturally extends beyond the classroom. As part of our offer, students experience the real Canadian outdoor lifestyle through unforgettable activities and school-organized trips.
Included Experiences
- 🐋 Whale watching & wildlife boat trips (orcas, seals, sea lions, bald eagles)
- 🌲 Hiking through ancient rainforests and protected parks
- 🌊 Ocean surfing on the Pacific coast
- 🚣 Kayaking in crystal-clear coastal waters
- 🏙️ Exploring Vancouver, Victoria & nearby islands
- 🏔️ Trips to the Rocky Mountains — glaciers, turquoise lakes, iconic views
Optional Enrichment Trips
Depending on the school district and season, students may also join:
- ⛷️ Skiing in world-class mountain resorts
- 🇺🇸 Educational trips to the United States
- 🌍 International study-travel experiences with Canadian classmates (e.g. Costa Rica)
✈️ Preparing Students for Their Journey to Canada
At the Polish Academy of Canada, preparation is a key part of the student journey. We believe that students who feel informed, emotionally ready, and connected adapt more easily and gain far more from their experience abroad.
Before departure, students and parents take part in a guided preparation process, which includes:
- understanding Canadian school culture and expectations
- practical preparation for daily life with a host family
- communication skills, self-advocacy, and emotional readiness
- strategies for managing homesickness, challenges, and change
Whenever possible, students are introduced to their Canadian host families before departure through online meetings and written profiles. This early connection helps build trust, excitement, and a sense of belonging even before arrival. Host families often share photos of the home, and in many cases prepare the student’s room in advance, so the student arrives to a welcoming, personal space that already feels like home.
Students are also encouraged to reflect on their goals, strengths, and personal development, arriving in Canada with clarity, confidence, and a leadership mindset.
Parents are supported throughout the preparation stage, ensuring families feel calm, informed, and ready for the journey ahead.
Our goal is not only to prepare students for travel, but to prepare them to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally — from the very first days in Canada.
Student Application Process:
- If you would like to study on Vancouver Island please send us an email
to alina@polish-academy-canada.com or fill the registration form below and we will explore opportunities with you. - For your application you will require:
- An official copy of your school report cards for the past two years, in your own language
- A copy of your report cards translated into English
- A passport-sized photograph
- Proof of age (e.g. a copy of your passport)
- Application Processing Fee
Registration form
