Basic English as a Second Language, Certificate

Program at a glance

Credential

Certificate

Work experience

None

Study options

Full-time

Part-time

Open to International

Yes

Area of study

Upgrading & Preparatory

Length

Varies

Tuition-free

Upgrading courses and programs are tuition-free for domestic students.

Grant info

If you are learning English as an international language, this program is for you

Start in September, January, March or May

With our help and support, you’ll become more confident in listening, speaking, reading and writing English. Offering eight levels of English as a Second Language (ESL) training, Camosun has a course for everyone.

Set yourself on the right path

In this skills-based program, speakers of other languages develop essential English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. This is a unique opportunity with a multicultural student population, authentic language practice, Canadian culture experience, and electives to support the required courses. Domestic and international students can study full and part-time to improve their English skills for a variety of goals related to academic study and daily life in an English language setting.

A supportive community

Our instructors are highly qualified and committed to providing a friendly and caring learning experience in an adult environment. We understand the pressures and challenges of learning a new language. Our scheduling is flexible to fit your busy life: full-time, part-time, at your own pace; day or evening; all year round.

Next Info Session to be announced
Zoom Link
ELD Info Session Slides - PDF

English Help Centres

Staffed with expert language tutors, Camosun's English Help Centres have multi-media computer labs and a variety of other support services to help you succeed. You’ll be a part of our campus community and meet new friends.

Learn at your level

If you're a beginning or pre-intermediate student, you will start with listening and speaking skills and an introduction to reading comprehension and written composition in levels 1-5.

If you're a more experienced English language learner, you will take more advanced courses, either to prepare you for college and university level programs or to gain professional English skills for the Canadian workplace in levels 6-9. EAP

What you'll learn

Current students wanting information about your program, go to student planning in myCamosun.

Program outline

For more details, including courses, please see the program outline in the Academic Calendar.

Program outline

Basics and essentials!

Basic English as a Second Language courses are for beginning and pre-intermediate students who have a fundamental and developing knowledge of English. Emphasis is on the development of speaking and listening skills with an introduction to reading comprehension and written composition.

For success in these programs, you are encouraged to immerse yourself in English outside your classes, attend regularly, participate in class, and complete homework and assignments.

Tuition and fees

Effective from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025

Estimated tuition

Tuition estimates are for the entire program

Basic English as a Second Language, Certificate

For domestic students, 0-level English (ELD) upgrading courses are tuition-free.

For International students visit: International Tuition & Fees

Student fees

In addition to tuition estimates, student fees are calculated based on your enrolment. Refer to: Student Fees

Financial assistance

The Adult Upgrading Grant (AUG) covers student fees, deposit, tuition (if applicable), required textbooks and childcare support for eligible students enrolled in 0-level upgrading courses.

You may need to find more than one source of funding to help pay for your education and living costs while attending college. Check out sources of money you don't need to pay back as well as those that need to be repaid.

Financial Aid & Awards

Admission requirements

Students must meet the pre-requisites for each individual course or complete an English Language Placement Assessment.

For more details, including courses, please see the program outline in the Academic Calendar.

Ready to get started?

Get your application in for the September, October, January, March or May intake.

Apply today

Missing admission requirements?

You may be able to take an assessment or upgrade with us.

Need help applying?

Find out more on How to Apply or speak to an Admissions Advisor.

Our teaching staff

Camosun College is fiercely proud of the excellent quality of its instruction. Our teaching staff are experienced, inspiring and supportive of our students’ individual journeys.