Program Description

In the International ELL program, you'll learn listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. This program is certified by the Languages Canada Quality Assurance Scheme. 

You will get:
• Small, interactive classes
• Experienced teachers
• Flexible course options
• Workplace skills
• Flexible registration, from four months to one year

Program Structure and Student Progression

Learn English for the real world with the full-time International ELL program. You’ll learn by listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

The International English Language Learning program offers five levels. Your initial level placement can be determined by submitting a valid English Language Proficiency Exam Result (IELTS Academic, Duolingo,TOEFL, or Pearson PTE).

(Please note: the English Language Proficiency scores can ONLY be used as a placement for new students into our programs. After you start your studies with us, scores cannot be used to jump over a level).

International English Language Learning Preparation
International English Language Learning 1
International English Language Learning 2 or Transition to Academic English
Academic English 1
Academic English 2

Download the program brochure

Pathways

Students who successfully complete Academic English 2 with a grade of “B-” or higher meet the language proficiency requirements for most Bow Valley College career programs.

Schedule

All classes for International ELL Preparation, and ELL 1  are held from 9:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. Monday through Thursday, over 15 weeks.
Transition to Academic English, Academic 1 and Academic 2 are 15 week courses. Classes are held from 8:00 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Important Dates

Please review the application deadlines, orientation dates, placement test dates, start dates and other important deadlines here.

Medical Insurance

To be adequately protected for medical insurance coverage, students should have both basic and extended medical insurance plans.

Basic coverage for all students: Alberta Health Care

Alberta Health Care Insurance is a basic health care coverage that is administered and governed by the provincial Government of Alberta. All eligible recipients are required by law to be covered by this insurance plan.

Students must enroll themselves for Alberta Health Care Insurance when they arrive and establish a residence in Alberta; registration is not automatic. For specific details on Alberta Health Care Insurance benefits and how to register please refer to the website here

Other links of interest:

• Eligibility criteria
• Supporting documents
• Application form

To find health care, please visit: Alberta Health Services' website.

Extended Health Care for International English Language Learners

Students currently taking the International English Language Learning Program will be insured through StudentGuard Insurance. This insurance is mandatory and included in the tuition and fees for each term/semester of ELL study. Students are covered from the first day of class until the day before the start of the next term. A StudentGuard insurance card and detailed information will be handed out during the first week of classes.

Note: International ELL students may also be eligible for free Alberta Health Care coverage if they meet all requirements. International ESL students who are eligible for Alberta Health Care will still have Student Guard coverage during their ELL study at Bow Valley College. Visit StudentGuard medical insurance website at www.guard.me to get more details.

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Admission Requirements

As of Fall 2020, International English Language Learning applicants can be placed in the initial level of study by submitting one of the following:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic)
• Duolingo
• TOEFL ibt
• Pearson PTE A

Note:

• IELTS Academic, Duolingo, Pearson PTE A, and TOEFL ibt results are valid for two years from the day of testing.
• Results that expire prior to the Start Date of the program cannot be accepted.
• Official results must be submitted.

Applicants who choose to complete the level placement assessment will be granted a Letter of Acceptance for one year (three terms) of ELL study. Learners may choose to pursue alternative study options. It is the responsibility of the learner to ensure they comply with Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada study permit guidelines any time after completing one or more levels of the ELL program.