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Master your English skills one day at a time

Practice is important to develop confident English skills, along with making connections and having supportive instructors. Pursue your academic aspirations with our University Admission Preparation (UAP) program, the most advanced level of our English learning offerings. If you plan to enrol in a UVic degree program, UAP focuses on helping you gain English language proficiency and learn essential study skills.

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Program description

Get ready for a fulfilling experience. The UAP program at the English Learning Centre (ELC) is the most advanced one we offer. Our classes provide you with the language and study skills needed for academic success as a university student. A passing grade in the UAP program satisfies the English language requirement for admission to many UVic undergraduate or graduate programs. In this program, you will build skills in oral presentations, notetaking, essay writing, reading academic texts and researching. Our UAP classes are taught by TESOL-trained instructors who have experience teaching in other countries as well as in Canada. Join us on a 12-week learning journey towards a brighter future.

This program involves classes, activities and resources including:

  • conversation practice with Canadian volunteers at the ELC Learning Centre
  • weekly specialized skills classes focusing on university preparation skills such as pronunciation essentials, grammar, vocabulary, idioms, etc.
  • workshops for study skills and academic integrity
  • free and optional activities guided by our Cultural Assistants
  • optional homestay accommodation and meals
  • access to supportive services like the ELC academic mentor, 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 University Admission Preparation (UAP) program is for advanced-level learners preparing to apply for a UVic degree program, or who have been granted conditional admittance. We also offer a four-week, UAP + Canadian Studies program in August. Contact us for details.  

Instructors

News and resources

Courses and fees

12-Week UAP

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Academic English Classes

  • Afternoons: 1 – 5:15 pm

"University Skills for Success" Class

  • 8:20 am – 12:35 pm 

Optional activities ($)

Estimated fees per program

Fees due upon application Fee Notes
Application fee $150 Due at time of registration. Application fees are paid only once.
Program deposit $350
Homestay application fee $300
Tuition fees Fee Notes
Balance of Tuition ($4,500 - $350) $4,150 Based on a 12-week program. Due five weeks before program begins.
Student Services Fee (health insurance/bus pass/gym pass) $505
Accommodation and meals Fee Notes
$1,350 per month; $45 per additional night $4,005 (approx.) Based on a 12-week program. 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 have a minimum of one of the following exam scores:

  • IELTS (academic) overall score of 6 or higher with a minimum score of 5.5 in each skill area (R/L/S/W)
  • iBT TOEFL score of 79 or higher with no section less than 17 (R/L/S/W)
  • CAEL 60 with no subscore less than 50
  • Passing Grade (80%) for level 500 Academic in the Intensive English (ELPI) Program
  • Passing Grade (80%) for level 500 General in the Intensive English (ELPI) Program, with a passing grade on the UAP writing test

We will not accept tests taken more than two years before your application to the English Language Centre.

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
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
Starting in
September 2025
 
Program dates
Sept. 8 – Dec. 3, 2025
Program status
  Courses open for registration
Accommodation
Homestay: Open for registration
Dorms: n/a

RELATED TOPICS: ELC on-campus programs