Canada

Language schools in Canada, with campuses based in Toronto and Vancouver, offer General English, intensive or semi-intensive English, IELTS / TOEFL preparation, Cambridge (FCE, CAE) preparation, Business English and university pathway programmes. Our partner sources state that the weekly workload is typically between 20 and 30 lessons, and class sizes are generally capped at 12 – 15 students. New sessions mostly start every Monday, and you are placed in the appropriate class based on a level assessment when you start school; some schools divide their programmes into a large number of detailed levels. Special courses for young learners are held in the summer and winter, and there are also separate programmes for adults over 30. The source also highlights the study permit requirement for long-term study plans.

Why Canada?

• In large, multicultural cities such as Toronto and Vancouver, you can use English in every area of daily life.
• The source states that ILAC welcomes students from more than 75 countries every year, which means a broad international environment in the classroom.
• Programmes are divided into detailed levels; for example, ILAC is said to have 17 different English levels.
• As courses generally start every Monday, you can plan your schedule flexibly.
• University pathway programmes offer a bridge for those aiming to move from language study to college or university.
• There are options for different age groups, such as a dedicated programme for adults over 30 in Toronto.
• With trips to places like Niagara Falls and Whistler, you can experience both nature and city life.

Tuition fees and living costs

Our sources do not include a detailed nationwide cost table for Canada; the figures below are approximate values given on school pages. The source notes that the cost of living in Toronto is generally slightly higher than in Vancouver and that expenses increase in city centres. Amounts may change from one period to the next.

Application steps

1. Choose the city (Toronto or Vancouver), school and course type according to your goal.
2. Clarify the programme length; take into account that long-term study requires a study permit.
3. Enrol at the school, obtain your acceptance / enrolment letter and choose your accommodation type.
4. Prepare your visa or study permit application with financial documents, insurance and your enrolment letter.
5. Finalise accommodation and travel details before arrival.

Required documents

• Valid passport
• Language school acceptance / enrolment letter
• Proof of financial means
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance
• Study permit application documents for long-term study

Academic calendar and application periods

• New sessions at language schools generally start every Monday.
• Programmes for young learners are held in the summer and winter.
• Pathway programmes may have specific start dates according to the school's academic calendar.

Language requirements

• You can enrol in General English courses as a beginner; no prior language certificate is required.
• You are placed in the appropriate class through a level assessment when you start school.
• In pathway programmes, you are expected to reach the level targets set by the school in order to progress to college or university.

Frequently asked questions

Which cities stand out for language study in Canada?

The campuses of the schools in our sources are located in Toronto and Vancouver. Toronto offers a large, cosmopolitan city life, while Vancouver stands out for its proximity to nature.

How much do language schools cost in Canada?

The source gives a weekly range of 450 CAD – 650+ CAD for General English at LSI. Exact fees vary according to the school's current price list, course type and duration.

Do I need a visa?

Yes. According to the source, Canada requires a study permit or student visa for long-term study plans. The type of document required for short programmes should be checked separately at the time of application.

I am over 30 — is there a suitable programme?

The source states that Kaplan offers a dedicated English programme for adults over 30 in Toronto.

Can I move on to college or university after language study?

Some schools offer university pathway programmes; these aim to prepare students for college or university through academic English preparation. Progression conditions vary by institution and programme.