Important information about English as a Second Language programs and courses at Douglas College.

• How do I apply to Douglas College?

• • See How to Apply.

• When should I apply to Douglas College?

• • For academic ESL courses, community students (permanent residents and refugees) should apply at least two months before the start of the next semester.

    For immersion programs, there are several different intake times and seats are on a first come first served basis. Community students should contact the ESL office at 604-527-5463. All students in immersion programs must have at least basic conversational skills in English.

    International students interested in any of the above should contact Douglas International.

• How much does it cost to study at Douglas College?

• • For community students, fees can be found here.
    
    For international students, fees can be found here.

• Is there an English-only policy?

• • All instruction is done in English and students are required to speak only English in class. In addition, most instructors expect their students to use English as much as possible outside of class.

• How long do I have to be in ESL?

• • The answer depends on the student's starting level and speed of learning. There are four levels in the Academic Preparatory program. If a student enters at the lowest level, which is Lower Intermediate, and passes all four levels the first time, that student can complete the program in four semesters, which takes about sixteen months.

• When can I take other college classes?

• • When you pass the 300-level (Advanced), you can select from a variety of college classes to take while you continue your ESL studies. After you successfully complete the 400-level (Academic Preparatory), you can take any number of classes including those for University Transfer.

• Can I work on campus?

• • Both on- and off-campus employment opportunities can be found at workopoliscampus.com. Information on how to apply is available at Student Employment Services.

• What courses will I be taking?

• • Academic Preparatory students take classes in Reading & Writing and Listening & Speaking, and may also choose to study Pronunciation.

    Immersion programs are comprised of English language classes, workshops or labs, fieldtrips, and socio/cultural events.

• How many hours per week will I be in class?

• • Full-time academic students usually take courses which meet a total of sixteen hours per week. Classes meet Monday to Friday. The earliest classes begin at 8am and the latest classes end at 9pm.

    Immersion program hours vary as activities include classes, workshops, fieldtrips, and socio/cultural events.

• Where do most of the students come from?

• • ESL students at Douglas College enjoy the benefits of interacting with people from a wide variety of cultures. Students come from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America to study English. Sometimes a class may include students from as many as ten different cultures.