Semester Program
ESL 100 | 12/13 Weeks
If you are serious about dramatically improving your overall English skills, this is the course for you!
Acquiring Accuracy: Comprehensive English
Level 1 – 5
- Separate courses in Grammar, Reading & Writing and Speaking & Listening
- Levels: high beginner to upper advanced in each skill area
- 11/12 weeks of instruction and assessment followed by a week of exams
- Enter the program in any session and combine semester programs
- Most students can expect to achieve an advanced level of English in 1 year (3 semesters + 1 intensive program of study)
Level 6: Academic Preparation
The top level of our Semester Program focuses on the written and oral skills necessary for success in the English language post-secondary classroom. Students completing Level 6, with a minimum final grade of B+ in each course meet the English language proficiency requirement for:
- Academic Communication Certificate (ACC)
- UCalgary Continuing Education International Professional Programs, see conted.ucalgary.ca/ipp
- Applicable Bow Valley College certificate and diploma programs
2025
2026
It was an incredible experience from which I learned the language and met friends from different cultures.
Randa from Libya
Experience Value
Our tuition includes the following, and more...
Course Materials
Textbooks and handouts.
Public Transit Access
Public train and bus pass for courses 8 weeks or longer.*
* Coverage starts from May 1 for Spring terms.
Health Insurance
Emergency health insurance for international students.
Social Events
Organized social events for students.
Recreation Facilities
Use of recreational facilities on campus.
Library
Access to the campus library.
Free WiFi
Wifi access on campus.
Computers
Access to campus computers.
Class Schedule
A certificate of participation will be given at the end of the course to students who attend a minimum of 90% of classes.
Sample Timetable
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morning |
Grammar
|
Grammar
|
Grammar
|
Grammar
|
Grammar
|
Optional Activity Program |
| Afternoon | Speaking and Listening | Speaking and Listening | Speaking and Listening | Speaking and Listening | Speaking and Listening | Optional Activity Program |
Admission Requirements
Proof of English language proficiency is not required to enter the Semester Program; students will be tested at the beginning of the program and then placed in the appropriate level.
Advanced placement into levels 5 and 6 of the Semester Program is available for students wishing to
guarantee their level placements. One of the following minimum scores are required for advanced placements:
Level 5:
- TOEFL iBT score of 45 overall, 15 in writing
- IELTS Academic score of 5.0 overall, 5 in writing, 4.5 in any other skill area
- CAEL score of 40 overall, 40 in writing
- Duolingo English Test score of 85 overall, 75 in production
Level 6:
- TOEFL iBT score of 55 overall, 18 in writing
- IELTS Academic score of 5.5 overall, 5.5 in writing, 5 in any other skill area
- CAEL score of 50 overall, 50 in writing
- Duolingo English Test score of 95 overall, 85 in production
In the event that students display English language performance that is significantly different from the English language proficiency scores they submitted, the student will be assigned to the course level that aligns with their in-class performance.
Improve your English skills and explore Alberta!
Surrounded by Alberta’s many beautiful travel destinations, our Activity Program offers exciting learning opportunities on and off campus, ensuring the best possible international learning experience.
Homestay
Living with a Canadian family is an excellent way to improve your English and intercultural skills.