Founded in 1908 in Victoria, British Columbia, St. Margaret’s School (SMS) is a girls’ day and boarding school offering education from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. Academic challenge, individual care and leadership development are woven into school life. It is an appealing choice for families seeking a supportive environment where their daughter can build confidence, independence and a global outlook.
The leafy 22-acre campus offers room to learn and explore. SMS encourages girls to speak up, ask questions, try something new and take responsibility. Its multicultural community creates opportunities for friendships across cultures. Studying here is more than an overseas education: it is a chance to discover personal strengths and become a more independent learner.
SMS offers British Columbia secondary education leading to the BC Dogwood Diploma, alongside the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12. Under the school’s current approach, Grade 11 students begin in the IB programme and receive individual guidance on their pathway. They may pursue the full IB Diploma or combine individual IB courses with school electives, earning IB course credits while completing the BC Dogwood Diploma. The school should confirm each student’s course choices and graduation requirements.
The full IB Diploma combines six subject groups with Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service, developing research, critical-thinking and time-management skills. Inquiry-based learning in Grades 6–10 prepares students for senior studies. SMS is currently a candidate school for the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP); candidacy does not mean the programme is already authorised.
Boarding helps students manage their time, develop everyday routines and become part of a community. Four residences are supported by houseparents and a care team, with students generally sharing a room for two with a private bathroom. Meals, counselling and health support complement classroom learning. Ask the school about five-day boarding and eligibility.
Students can explore sport, music, drama, art, service and leadership activities. Campus facilities support fitness and the performing arts, while Outweek for Grades 7–12 and experiences such as hiking and kayaking encourage teamwork, adaptability and courage. Activities and availability vary by school year.
These figures are based on the school’s 2026/27 fee schedule. Boarding includes accommodation, meals and services such as laundry. Application and registration fees, an incidental deposit, uniforms, medical insurance, English-language support, IB examinations and some optional activities may involve additional charges. The school’s official documents govern total costs and refund terms.
Applications are accepted throughout the year, with interviews and assessments forming part of the process. Overseas applicants can participate by video. Recent school reports, a teacher reference and identification documents are normally required. Contact ISSCC to discuss whether SMS suits the student’s year group, learning goals and boarding needs, and to plan an application timeline.
Visit the SMS Official Website ｜ BC and IB Programme Details ｜ Official Tuition and Fees
Information is for reference only:
Program details, tuition, admission requirements, and other arrangements may change. Please confirm the latest information with the school before applying.
