Private Schools for Autistic Children in Ontario
Direct answer
Ontario Ministry of Education · Ontario Human Rights Commission · Verified 2026-02-22
In brief
Key points
- Private school options for autistic children in Ontario: specialized autism schools, inclusive programs, typical costs, and what to ask before enrolling.
- Number of inspected private schools in Ontario: Not yet confirmed against the board's written policy (We are still checking the source for this figure)
- Specialized autism private school tuition range: Not yet confirmed against the board's written policy (We are still checking the source for this figure)
| Fact | Record | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Number of inspected private schools in Ontario | Not yet confirmed against the board's written policy | We are still checking the source for this figure |
| Specialized autism private school tuition range | Not yet confirmed against the board's written policy | We are still checking the source for this figure |
| Tax credit available for qualifying schools | Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) | Canada Revenue Agency |
| Private school inspection requirement | Must be inspected to grant OSSD credits | Ontario Ministry of Education |
- Number of inspected private schools in Ontario
- Not yet confirmed against the board's written policy
- We are still checking the source for this figure
- Specialized autism private school tuition range
- Not yet confirmed against the board's written policy
- We are still checking the source for this figure
- Tax credit available for qualifying schools
- Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC)
- Canada Revenue Agency
- Private school inspection requirement
- Must be inspected to grant OSSD credits
- Ontario Ministry of Education
How this page is organized
Types of Private Schools Serving Autistic Students
Private schools for autistic students in Ontario generally fall into three groups. Some focus on autism or disability support. Some are inclusive schools with learning strategists and smaller classes. Others use alternative education models that may fit some learners.
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.
Costs and Funding Considerations
Ask each school for a complete written tuition and fee schedule. Ontario says private schools do not receive funding or other financial support from the provincial government.
Some school costs can qualify as medical expenses under CRA rules. For a school for a person with an impairment, CRA requires written certification that the school's specially provided equipment, facilities, or staff are needed because of the impairment. Check current CRA rules or get tax advice before claiming.
Questions to Ask When Visiting Schools
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.
Evidence and sources
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)
If the first request doesn't resolve it
This is general information, not legal advice, and no outcome is guaranteed at any rung. It is the same escalation path used across End The Wait Ontario's School Support Navigator.
School Principal
Put your concern in writing to the principal. Most issues resolve at this level once there is a dated, written record — and every later rung will ask what you raised here.
Superintendent of Special Education
If the principal does not respond in writing or the issue continues, escalate to the board's superintendent responsible for special education, attaching your correspondence with the school.
Director of Education / School Board
The board level: the Director of Education, and in parallel the board's SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee) for systemic issues. Suspension appeals also live here — with a 10-school-day notice window (Education Act, s. 309(3)).
Ombudsman Ontario
Since September 1, 2015, the Ontario Ombudsman takes complaints about school boards. It reviews how the board handled your concern — bring your dated chronology and the record of the steps you already took.
Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (information only)
The HRTO hears applications about discrimination, including disability discrimination in education services. Applications must be filed within one year of the incident (or the last in a series) — Human Rights Code, s. 34(1). This site provides general information only; get advice from the Human Rights Legal Support Centre (hrlsc.on.ca) or a lawyer before filing.
- See the full escalation ladder with citations and deadlines
Frequently asked questions
Do not assume the board will pay. Private-school funding disputes are fact-specific and can have legal deadlines. Document what the public school offered, what failed, and what your child needs. Get qualified legal advice before changing placement.
Only if the private school is inspected by the Ontario Ministry of Education and authorized to grant secondary school credits. Not all private schools, particularly specialized elementary schools, offer OSSD pathways. Confirm the school's inspection status and credit-granting authority before enrolling, especially for secondary students.
Ask AccessOAP and the school before counting on services during the school day. An active funding agreement is an administrative status and is not proof of service receipt, school-day access, or provider availability.
Take Action to End the Wait
About this page
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