School Fees
Under section 82(1) of the Ministry of Education School Act (Appendix A), Boards of Education must provide, free of charge to school age students resident in British Columbia, instruction in an educational program sufficient to meet the general requirements for graduation and the educational resource materials necessary to participate in the educational program.
There are some exceptions: Boards of Education may charge fees for certain programs, such as specialty academies, international baccalaureate, and trades programs, as well as for musical instruments. Under section 82(3) of the Act boards may also charge fees for “goods and services” such as school supplies and optional field trips or special events.
Standard Elementary School Fees:
1) School Supply Fee ($35/student) - all elementary schools offer a supply package that provides for any personal school supplies needed throughout the year
2) Cultural Fee ($10/student) - all elementary schools provide optional cultural performance opportunities made available through the schools for the benefit of students.
3) Goods and Services Fees - Vary by school depending upon the offerings. These include but are not limited to yearbooks, uniforms, field studies, and musical instruments.
Financial Hardship
Any board that charges fees must have a financial hardship policy in place to help students who are in financial need. The Board's policy on financial hardship can be found in Regulation 425R Student Fees.
To apply for a subsidy, please complete the following form.
Parents may apply for a fee subsidy for school fees and transportation fees in two ways.
1. Income Based (Section C on the Subsidy Form)
Families that are under the income thresholds listed under Section C of the subsidy form may provide income documentation from the Canadian Revenue Agency. The form and income documentation can be sent directly to Subsidy Processing at the Board Education Centre.
2. Exceptional Circumstances (Section B on the Subsidy Form)
Families that are experiencing exceptional circumstances may contact their school principal for approval of the application. Once the form is signed by the school principal, it is sent by the school to Subsidy Processing at the Board Education Centre.