A cultural assistant with two ELC students having fun.

Gain English fluency in a global community

Learning English is easier with friends. Each year, over 500 learners from 30+ countries take this program, making it our most international program at the English Language Centre (ELC). Join a diverse group of learners for 12 weeks and improve your communication skills and English proficiency in a fun and welcoming environment.

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Program description

Experience an English language program full of options and opportunities. With multiple start dates, you can take general and academic English classes or pursue entrance into other university programs. Our ELC instructors are TESOL-trained university graduates with experience teaching in other countries as well as in Canada. If you want to gain the confidence to communicate well in different settings, our program is designed to improve your English proficiency in areas such as writing, reading and speaking. Join a diverse group of students from around the world in our Intensive English (ELPI) program, and study English with your peers while staying on Canada’s beautiful West Coast.

This program involves classes, activities and resources including:

  • conversation practice with Canadian volunteers at the ELC Learning Centre
  • weekly specialized skills classes focusing on pronunciation essentials, grammar, vocabulary, idioms, etc.
  • the option to extend your program and participate in Project-based Presentations (PbP)
  • free and optional activities guided by our Cultural Assistants
  • optional homestay accommodation and meals
  • access to supportive services like academic coaching and personal counselling
  • 18 class hours per week (256 total program hours)

Program highlights 


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Global Recognition
The University of Victoria is one of Canada's leading universities, recognized for preparing students for careers in a wide range of disciplines. Upon successful completion of this program you will receive a Certificate of Completion.

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Teaching Talent
Our instructors are industry professionals with years of experience. They’re dedicated to helping you develop your English skills and prepare you for further studies or a career in an international market.

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Welcoming Environment
Our academic programs are complemented by social activities where you can meet new friends and share the unique aspects of your country or culture in a safe, respectful environment.

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Support Services
Get access to a range of services and resources before, during and after your time in the program. This includes:

Accreditation

Languages Canada logo

The English Language Centre is accredited by Languages Canada.

Who is this program for?

The Intensive English (ELPI) program is for learners seeking to improve their general or academic English skills for social, professional or international communication. ELPI is best suited for upper beginner-level learners who want to attend a longer-term program to improve their English or prepare for entrance into other UVic degree programs.

News and resources

Courses and fees

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

 

  • Core classes: 18 hours (morning or afternoon, 4 days per week)
  • Specialized Skills: 4 hours (2 hours X 2 classes per week)
  • ELC Learning Centre: open Monday to Thursday
  • Coffee Social (Friday) and other free activities that change every week

Optional activities led by our Cultural Assistants. For example:

  • whale watching
  • Butchart Gardens
  • trips to Vancouver 
  • hockey games
  • kayaking (depending on the season)
Fees due upon application Fee Notes
Application fee $150 Application fees are paid only once. Non-refundable.
Homestay application fee $300
Program deposit $350
Tuition fees Fee Notes
Balance of Tuition ($4500-$350 deposit) $4,150 Due five weeks before program begins.
Student Services Fee (health insurance/bus pass/gym pass) $505
Accommodation and meals Fee Notes

$1350 per month; $45 per additional night

$4,005 (approx.) Paid directly to Host family. This fee is NOT paid to the ELC.
Total: $9,460

Application information

Admission requirements

To study in this program, you must:

  • be 18 years old by the program start date
  • have a basic knowledge of English

To find out if your level of English meets our minimum requirement for this program, take our free ELC Basic English Test.

How to apply

To view full application information, please click the Apply Now button. Programs currently open for registration will be available.

Program dates

Starting in
September 2024
 
Program dates
Sept. 9 – Dec. 4, 2024
Program status
  Courses open for registration
Accommodation
Homestay: Open for registration
Dorms: n/a
Starting in
January 2025
 
Program dates
Jan. 6 – April 2, 2025
Program status
  Courses open for registration
Accommodation
Homestay: Open for registration
Dorms: n/a
Starting in
April 2025
 
Program dates
April 7 – July 2, 2025
Program status
  Courses open for registration
Accommodation
Homestay: Open for registration
Dorms: n/a

RELATED TOPICS: ELC on-campus programs