English language requirements and preparation
There are different ways to start the business programs with Continuing Studies at UVic.
If you meet our academic requirements, but not the English proficiency requirement for direct admission, the UVic English Language Centre (ELC) can help you achieve the English level needed to begin your certificate or diploma.
Why English matters
Strong English skills help you participate confidently in class, understand course materials, and succeed in assignments that reflect real workplace expectations.
Meeting the English requirement ensures you’re ready to get the most out of your program, allowing you to thrive in your classes and prepare to apply your skills to your career.
Programs eligible for conditional admission:
Do you meet the English language requirement for our business programs?
Less than
- IELTS 6.0
- TOEFL IBT 79
- TOEFL 4.0
- Duolingo 110
- IELTS (academic) 6.0 overall (no sub-score less than 5.5)
- TOEFL IBT 79 (no sub-score less than 17)
- TOEFL 4.0 (no sub-score less than 3.5)
- Duolingo English Test 110
Tests must be completed within the last 2 years. Additional verification may be requested.
- Completion of four years of secondary and/or post-secondary full-time academic studies in which all language of instruction is English, in Canada, or a recognized English-speaking country.
- Completion of four years of full-time academic studies at a recognized international curriculum secondary school with all instruction is in English. Medium of instruction letters must be emailed directly from the institution to our admissions team.Medium of instruction letter required
- Completion of a recognized degree program from an accredited university in which all language of instruction is English, in a recognized English-speaking country.
- Completion of Grade 12 English or its equivalent in Canada with a final grade of 86% or higher within the last three years prior to admission.
- Successful completion of an approved English partner pathway level.
Contact us for partner information.
Review admission requirements for the certificate/diploma you are applying for.
Apply to the certificate/diploma directly by:
- submitting the online application form
- indicating that you will prepare your English through the ELC’s Intensive English (ELPI) program.
- providing your academic transcript
- including the $300 program application fee
Apply for the Intensive English (ELPI) program by:
- submitting the online application form
- paying the $150 ELC application fee*
- receiving your Letter of Acceptance for Intensive English (ELPI)
After registering for ELPI, you will receive a Conditional Offer of Admission to your certificate/diploma.
You will then accept your offer by:
- paying the $4000 program acceptance deposit
- receiving your Conditional Offer of Admission to your certificate/diploma.}
*Submit your Duolingo score to waive the $150 CAD application fee
Pass level 500* of Intensive English (ELPI) within one year of receiving the Conditional Offer of Admission.
- Once you have passed level 500, you can start your certificate/diploma.
*There are 6 class levels in ELPI: levels 100 (high beginner) to 600 (university preparation). You will be placed in a level based on your UVic placement test results. You may need multiple sessions to reach and pass level 500.
Begin your certificate/diploma.
Review admission requirements for the certificate/diploma you are applying for.
Apply to the certificate/diploma directly by:
- submitting the online application form
- providing proof of English proficiency
- providing your academic transcript
- including the $300 program application fee
Receive an Offer of Admission to Continuing Studies at UVic.
- Receive an Offer of Admission* to your certificate/diploma
- Accept your offer by paying the $4000 program acceptance deposit
- Receive a Letter of Admission to your certificate/diploma
*Applications are typically reviewed, with offers of admission sent within 1 month of application.
- Register in your certificate/diploma courses. You will be notified by email when your courses are open for registration.
Begin your certificate/diploma.
Conditional admission through ELPI
If you don't yet meet the English language requirement for your program, ELPI can help you build the skills needed to begin your certificate or diploma.
Offered through the English Language Centre (ELC), this full-time program strengthens academic and professional English skills while preparing you for study at Continuing Studies at UVic.
By studying in the ELC's Intensive English (ELPI) program, you will:
- receive a significant tuition discount for ELPI
- eligibility for conditional admission to your certificate or diploma program
Optional Duolingo testing for ELPI
If you are unsure of your current English level, you can also take the Duolingo English test. The results do not replace ELPI’s official placement testing, but they can give you a helpful idea of how long you may need to study in ELPI. This can make it easier to plan the timeline and and budget required to meet the English requirements for your certificate or diploma program.
When you submit a Duolingo score with your ELPI application, the $150 ELPI application fee will be waived.
