What documents do I need to register my child at school?

Registering your child in a Calgary school requires specific documents to ensure a quick and successful enrollment. Below is a detailed official list based on the requirements of the Calgary Board of Education (CBE) and the Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD), as well as practical advice for parents.

Basic documents for all students

1. Proof of age and legal name of the child

  • Required:
  • Canadian birth certificate or
  • Child's passport (Canadian or foreign) or
  • Adoption/guardianship document.
  • For foreign nationals:
    • Study Permit or
  • Permanent Resident Card .

2. Proof of address

  • Accepted:
  • Utility bill (e.g., ENMAX, Direct Energy) no more than 6 months old.
    • Rental/purchase agreement for housing.
  • Tax return or household insurance.
  • Not accepted:
  • Driver's license.
  • Bank statements.

Additional documents for specific cases

1. For Catholic schools (CSSD)

  • Baptism of the child or one of the parents:
  • Catholic or Orthodox baptism (copy of certificate).
  • Proof of residence in the school zone:
    • Certificate from the parents' place of work/study if the address does not match.

2. For foreign students

  • Work/study permit for parents:
  • Work Permit or Study Permit of the father/mother.
  • English language assessment:
    • For students in grades 3–12 – level 3+ (determined by testing).

3. For children with special needs

  • Medical certificates:
  • Diagnostic reports (e.g., autism, dyslexia).
    • Individualized Education Plan (IEP) from previous school.
  • Student Health Plan form:
  • To be completed for children with allergies, diabetes, etc.

Online registration: step by step

1. Create an account

  • CBE: Use the SchoolEngage platform.
  • CCSD: Complete the form on the district website.

2. Upload documents

  • Formats: PDF, JPEG, PNG.
  • Required:
  • Scan of birth certificate.
    • Scan of utility bill.

3. Select a school

  • By address: Use the “Find a School” tool on the CBE/CCSD website.
  • For alternative programs: Lottery possible – apply by February 11.

Deadlines and important dates

Period Action
January Registration for kindergarten opens.
February Registration for grades 1–12.
April–June Lottery for overcrowded schools.
August Final confirmation of place.

Tips for parents

  1. Prepare documents in advance:
    • Have foreign documents translated into English/French by a certified translator.
  2. Check your address:
  • If you live in rented accommodation, attach your rental agreement.
  1. Contact the school:
    • If you have any doubts about the documents, consult with the administration.

Common mistakes

  • Incorrect document format:
  • For example, a passport photo without borders.
  • Missed deadlines:
    • For schools with a lottery, being late means losing your chance.

**Conclusion

Registering your child for school in Calgary is a clearly structured process that requires attention to detail. Key points: confirm your child's age, prepare address and residency documents, and meet deadlines. For Catholic schools or students with special needs, include the appropriate documentation. Use online platforms to submit applications efficiently and don't hesitate to contact schools for assistance.