International Students

Discover a World of Learning at Portage la Prairie School Division!

At Portage la Prairie School Division, we are dedicated to providing a diverse and enriching educational experience. Our premier institution, Portage Collegiate Institute (PCI), offers an extensive array of academic and practical programs tailored to meet the varied interests and aspirations of our students.

Comprehensive Academic Programs

Our academic curriculum spans a full range of arts and sciences, available in both semester and non-semester formats. Completing our program leads to a Manitoba high school diploma, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed for post-secondary education.

Practical Skills and Vocational Training

PCI is proud to offer robust practical skills courses, including:
Business Education and Marketing
Cosmetology
Computer Technology
Building and Construction Technology
Agricultural Management

These programs are designed to provide hands-on experience and prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce or further specialized training.

 Advanced Learning Opportunities

For students who excel academically, we offer enriched programs and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. These rigorous courses can earn students university credits, giving them a head start in their higher education journey.

Welcoming International Students

We warmly welcome international students and require a basic working knowledge of English to ensure a smooth transition and successful learning experience. 

 A Charming City with Rich Opportunities

Portage la Prairie, a serene city of 13,000 residents, is centrally located on the vast plains of southern Manitoba. Known as the strawberry capital of Canada, our city offers a safe and friendly environment, perfect for students seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.

Proximity to Winnipeg

Just 84 kilometers east lies Winnipeg, a vibrant city teeming with cultural and recreational opportunities. From the excitement of professional football games to the elegance of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, students can enjoy diverse experiences in arts, sports, shopping, and dining.

Join us at Portage la Prairie School Division and embark on a journey of discovery, growth, and excellence. Come learn with us!

  • A registration form, school reference form and declaration must be completed.
  • A copy of student mark statements.
  • Tuition costs are $13 500.00* Canadian per academic year and there is a $100 non-refundable application fee. *(this figure is subject to change).
  • Upon acceptance, students must apply for a student visa, which is required to entry  into Canada.
  • The applicant is responsible for arranging accommodations or homestay. The school division will assist where possible.

Forms:

For more information, contact
Kendra McKenzie
F: 204-239-5943
Email

Mail to: The Portage la Prairie School Division
535 - 3rd Street N.W.
Portage la Prairie, MB
Canada, R1N 2C4
Fax to: 204-239-5998
Email: portagesd@plpsd.net

 

  • Manitoba High School Graduation Diploma
  • Practical Skills Programs
  • Distance Education Program
  • Advanced Placement Program
  • French Immersion Program

Diploma: Manitoba High School
Program Levels: Grades 9 - 12
Private vs Public: Public
Calendar Year: September-June
Year Program Founded: 1894
Hours of Instruction/Week: 27.5

Students who graduate from the Portage la Prairie School Division are qualified to apply to most universities in the world.

The application fee is nonrefundable. Students who withdraw before the beginning of the school year receive a full refund.

Portage la Prairie School Division has one secondary school, Portage Collegiate Institute (PCI). PCI offers students a variety of options ranging from an academic program to practical skills courses for business and technology.

The academic program addresses a full range of arts and sciences taught on a semester system. Students are required to pass a core selection of courses including English, mathematics and sciences. Elective courses are combined with the required courses to create a balanced curriculum that stresses academic challenge and success in a fun setting. Students successfully completing the program are awarded a Manitoba high school diploma. The program is designed to prepare students for studies at a post secondary level.

Business education, marketing, cosmetology , computer technology, construction, electronics and agriculture management are all practical skills options available to students of the Portage la Prairie School Division. International students who demonstrate sufficient English communication skills may study any of these options at PCI.

Enriched programs are offered to students who excel in one or more subject areas. Students can take advanced placement courses that earn them credit for first year courses at universities and colleges across Canada.

Due to the sizable French-speaking community in the area, PCI offers a French immersion program for students who wish to learn Canada’s other official language. For students who choose to pursue their diploma in English, a comprehensive French program is available to complement the academic curriculum.

The Portage la Prairie School Division expects international students to have a basic working knowledge of the English language.

International students completing all of the requirements from any of the programs offered are qualified to graduate with a high school diploma or other appropriate designation.

Students in the Portage la Prairie School Division benefit from well-equipped educational facilities. An automated library, modern computer labs, a business education lab and science lab are all part of the academic facilities. Facilities for the practical skills programs include a cosmetology lab, an electronics lab, a building trades shop, a home economics lab, a music room and an art and drama room. International and local students also have access to non-academic school facilities: a lounge, career resource centre and technical resource centre.

Sports and club facilities further enhance the learning process; a weight room and a gymnasium are provided at both schools, and students can take part in student government, print publications, the Native student association and cultural activities.

Both the city and the school division manage many recreational facilities that are ideal environments for international students to make contacts with Canadians as well as other visitors. The Southport Aerospace Centre has a pool, whirlpool, waterslide and leisure pool. The Portage District Arts Council hosts art exhibitions and offers art instruction programs to aspiring artists.

The academic year at Portage Collegiate Institute runs on a semester system. The first semester begins in September and ends in January, while the second one begins in February and ends in June. Students may begin studies at the beginning either of the two semesters. There are vacations in December and March.

International students applying to Portage la Prairie School Division should include a completed application, transcripts indicating past academic performance, a C$100 application fee and an official medical certificate fee and an official medical certificate that discloses any serious illnesses or health problems. Students are assessed based on their academic performance and desire to study in Manitoba.

Upon acceptance, students must apply for a student visa, which authorizes them to study in Canada. Student visas must be obtained prior to entry into Canada. All fees must be paid by the start of the semester in which the student plans to begin studies.

All students are required to purchase private medical insurance for the duration of their studies at Portage la Prairie School Division. Insurance can be purchased in the student’s country of residence or in Canada (at the cost of approximately C$360 per year).

There is a small international student population in Portage la Prairie. Students receive plenty of attention and assistance in their academic programs as well as for private and personal concerns. Resource teachers, guidance counselors and teacher assistants all offer support to international students who are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to a Canadian lifestyle and educational system. Recreational facilities are open to all students and provide an excellent setting for meeting members of the community and establishing relationships with other international students.