US Admissions

 

Why Shawnigan

Located just across the Canadian border on picturesque Vancouver Island, Shawnigan Lake School has a history of welcoming American students dating back to the 1950s.
American students who attend Shawnigan are at an advantage when they apply to US colleges and universities.
Shawnigan offers a unique experience, immersing students in a 24-hour educational environment where academics are enhanced by exceptional opportunities in the arts, sports, and student life.
Shawnigan brings students from all over the world together, creating a unique environment where students celebrate cultural differences and foster their global citizenship.
Depth of life skills are developed from the Shawnigan experience: independence, problem solving, self-advocacy.

Shawnigan Graduates Attend
Top Universities

We chose Shawnigan Lake School for our children’s high school journey for several reasons: we highly regard the whole student approach Shawnigan takes, emphasizing academic excellence, arts, sports and leadership opportunities in a beautiful, supportive and stimulating environment,” - current American parent of two at Shawnigan

Boarding Life is the Cornerstone
of a Shawnigan Experience

Beginning in Grade 8, our unique Shawnigan Journey purposefully guides students through a distinct, unparalleled and bold educational experience.

Application Process

List of 3 items.

  • Step 1. Create an account

    In order to apply to Shawnigan Lake School, please complete the following:

    Create an account to complete the online application form

    Upload the following supporting documents:
    • Final report card from previous school year
    • Most recent report card
    • Passport
    • English proficiency test (e.g. IELTS general, TOEFL junior/iBt, Duolingo, etc.) for students whose first language is not English
      *In case a test score is not submitted, we reserve the right to schedule an internal English assessment with the applicant if needed*
    Email English and Math teacher recommendation forms (link will be provided once application has been submitted)

    Pay $260 application fee

    Once we receive the online application, one of our Admissions Associates will be in touch with the next steps.  
     

  • Step 2. Interview and Campus Visit

    Interviews are conducted when the family arranges to come visit our beautiful campus. It is in the applicant's best interest to visit the School for an in-person interview, but Zoom interviews are considered on a case-by-case basis.

  • Step 3. Decision

    Decisions are made after a thorough assessment of the applicant. We stress that this assessment is based on academic performance and potential, extra-curricular skills and accomplishments, integrity and suitability for the boarding experience. 

    Requests for financial aid (Founder's Awards) will only be considered after a student is accepted.


We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
1975 Renfrew Road
Shawnigan Lake, BC V8H 2G7
+1-250-743-5516
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful Pacific Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.