The English as a Second Language Program at Vancouver Island University is designed to help non-native speakers of English improve their English language proficiency and academic skills. The program is for students intending to continue to university and short-term summer and winter programs for students who want to improve their English and experience Canadian culture.
The ESL program at VIU includes the following components:
- Language instruction: The program provides intensive English language instruction in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, as well as grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of learners at different levels of proficiency, from beginner to advanced.
- Academic preparation: The program helps students develop the academic skills needed to succeed in university-level courses, such as note-taking, critical thinking, research, and presentation skills.
- Cultural orientation: The program helps students adapt to Canadian culture and academic norms, and provides opportunities for cultural exchange and interaction with Canadian students and the local community.
- Six start dates per year: January, February, April, June, August, October
- Guaranteed entry to Vancouver Island University upon successful completion (Level 5 for undergraduate programs and Grad Prep for graduate programs.)
- Transfer ESL courses across many public institutions in British Columbia
- 14-week courses:
- 7-weeks – Listening and Speaking
- 7-weeks – Reading and Writing
- TESL certificate for teachers
- 3-week and 4-week summer and winter camps
- Small class sizes
- Access to the facilities and experiences available on the university campus
- Access to housing, counselling and immigration advising
- Fully accredited by Languages Canada
- Special blend of a caring and nurturing education
- Day and weekend road trips to discover Vancouver Island’s vibrant communities, local cultural events and attractions
- An environment that balances academic accomplishments with social and relationship skills
Admission Requirement
All students must:
- Provide proof of their English language proficiency by achieving minimum scores in standardized tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent. The exact score requirements may vary depending on the program and the level of study.
- Completed a recognized secondary school diploma or an equivalent academic credential. The exact requirements may vary depending on the program and the level of study.
- Obtain a valid study permit and meet the Canadian government’s eligibility requirements for study permits.
Cost and Duration
Vancouver Island University’s English as a Second Language Program (ESL) offers high-quality English instruction at affordable tuition rates. Enjoy all that VIU has to offer, including access to all campus facilities and services. All ES: students will also receive a University ID card.
Prices are in Canadian Dollars and are subject to change without notice. All tuition and fees noted are effective as of September 2022.
English Language Centre Tuition
Each level of Language Foundations or University Preparation is 14-weeks.
Each 14-week course is divided into two 7-week modules (Terms), each of which focuses on two skills (Reading/Writing or Listening/Speaking).
To finish one level of a course, both modules need to be completed.
| Program | 14 Week Duration | 7 Week Duration | Accelerated 8 Week Duration |
| Language Foundations | $5,202 | $2,601 | N/A |
| University Preparation (UP) | $5,202 | $2,601 | N/A |
| Graduate Preparation | $5,202 (14.5 wks) | N/A | $5,202 |
Language and Culture Program Tuition
Choose from a 3 or 4-week program in Winter (January or February) or Summer (July or August). Tuition includes 20 hours per week of English language instruction, as well as activities and day trips.
| Program | 4 Week Duration | 3 Week Duration |
| Short-Term Summer program | $2,075 | $1,725 |
| Short-Term Winter program | $2,075 | $1,725 |
University Credits
Students who have successfully completed the highest level of the University Preparation stream (University Preparation 5) with a minimum grade of “C”, and who are entering Vancouver Island University undergraduate programs, will be given 3 academic credits. These credits recognize the skill development in reaching an advanced level in a second language. These credits may be used for any non-specified elective toward certificate, diploma, and degree programs at VIU.