Education Guide
EducationApproximately 900
Number of inspected private schools in Ontario
Ontario Ministry of Education
$40,000-$80,000/year
Specialized autism private school tuition range
Ontario private school surveys
Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC)
Tax credit available for qualifying schools
Canada Revenue Agency
Must be inspected to grant OSSD credits
Private school inspection requirement
Ontario Ministry of Education, Private Schools Policy
Private schools for autistic students in Ontario generally fall into three categories. Specialized autism schools, such as Kerry's Place and Giant Steps, are designed exclusively for autistic students and typically use evidence-based approaches like ABA, TEACCH, or structured teaching. Inclusive private schools accept students with a range of learning profiles and provide individualized support through learning strategists and smaller class sizes. Alternative education schools (Montessori, Waldorf, democratic schools) may suit some autistic learners through their distinctive pedagogical approaches.
When evaluating schools, look for: staff qualifications (BCBAs, special education teachers, speech-language pathologists on staff or available for consultation), student-to-staff ratios, the school's philosophy about autism (neurodiversity-affirming vs. deficit-based), transition planning, and track records of student outcomes.
Tuition at private schools for autistic students in Ontario ranges widely — from approximately $15,000 per year at some inclusive schools to $40,000-$80,000 per year at specialized autism schools with intensive support. These costs are generally not covered by the Ontario government, though some families have successfully argued for school board funding of private school placements when the public system cannot meet their child's needs.
Tax relief is available through the medical expense tax credit (METC) for tuition at certified schools that provide programming addressing a physical or mental impairment. The Disability Tax Credit and RDSP can also be part of a broader financial strategy. Some schools offer bursaries or sliding-scale fees.
During school visits, ask about: the school's experience with autistic students, how sensory needs are accommodated, crisis intervention and de-escalation approaches, communication methods supported (AAC, PECS, sign language), how behavioral challenges are addressed, parent communication frequency and methods, therapies available on-site, and transition planning for graduates.
Request to observe a class in session. Speak with current parents if possible. Ask for evidence of student outcomes — graduation rates, post-school placements, skill development data. A reputable school will be transparent about its strengths and limitations and honest about whether it is the right fit for your child.
Ontario Ministry of Education
Private school inspection and registration requirements (ontario.ca/education)
Ontario Human Rights Commission
Right to equal treatment in education regardless of disability (ohrc.on.ca)
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: March 24, 2026.
Verified Facts
Under the Ontario Education Act, every student with special needs is entitled to an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and access to an Identification, Placement and Review Committee (IPRC)
88,175, children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program
1 in 50, According to the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth, about children and youth aged 1 to 17 in Canada had an autism diagnosis
23.4%, Only 20,666 children have active funding agreements () — less than one in four
WHO recommends accessible, community-based early interventions for children with autism — timely evidence-based psychosocial interventions improve communication and social engagement