International Students

Pre-Arrival: Choose Chatham-Kent

Many of Chatham-Kent's educational institutions have international programs that meet a variety of interests. Some international students stay for a few weeks or a term, while others decide to enroll in multi-year diploma or degree programs. Visit the sites below to learn about different program options for you. Whether you are here for a few weeks or working towards a diploma from one of our secondary schools or post-secondary institutions, you are welcome in CK!

Elementary School Programs

• Chatham Christian School
  
• Lambton Kent District School Board
  

Secondary School Programs

• Chatham Christian School
• Conseil scolaire catholique Providence
• Lambton Kent District School Board

* St. Clair Catholic District School Board does not currently have an international program, but will consider admitting international students who meet eligibility requirements.

Private Schools

• Chatham Christian School
  
• Darul Uloom Canada
  
• Eben-Ezer Christian School 
• Edward International Academy 
• Montessori School in Chatham 
  
• Wallaceburg Christian School 

Post-Secondary Schools 

• St Clair College, Chatham Campus
• University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus

Once you have been accepted into a program, you need to obtain a Canadian study permit. Information about the study permit application process is provided by the Government of Canada. Most schools can assist you with this process. Make sure that you check the processing times for permits and apply well in advance of your program's start date.

Enjoying CK

Once you have arrived in Chatham-Kent, your school's international program coordinator should be able to help with questions about daily life, and help with accessing housing. 

Secondary school international students can stay with a local family as part of the Canada Homestay Network homestay program.

Post-secondary students often choose to stay on-campus residences or rent their own accommodations.

For recommendations on things to do in Chatham-Kent, check out www.VisitCK.ca, or contact a member of the LivingCK team to get connected locally! 

Graduating Students

It is never too early to start thinking of life after graduation. Talk to officials at your school about part-time jobs, work-study programs, or volunteer placements to gain Canadian work experience.

You may be eligible for programs to work and live in Canada:

• The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows international students to remain in Canada for up to three years after graduation in order to gain Canadian work experience.
• Canada's Express Entry program permits certain classes of immigrants, including international students, to apply for permanent residency.
• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) allows graduating international students with an offer of full-time, permanent employment to apply for permanent residency.

Graduating students who would like to remain in the Chatham-Kent area can find more information about local employers here.