Unlock your world by getting comfortable with the English language
With this flexible learning program, you will improve your English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills to reach a level required for academic studies. You will be prepared for academic success and become immersed in Canadian culture through a blend of classroom instruction and off-campus experiences.
The program duration varies from four to 12 months, depending on your language proficiency. Your English skills are assessed at the intake through results from recognized language proficiency tests, and you will be placed at a one of three levels appropriate for your language proficiency:
- Foundations (3 semesters) – This level is designed for low-beginner students and is offered based on sufficient enrolment.
- Level A (2 semesters) – This level is intended for high-beginner to low-intermediate students.
- Level B (1 semester) – This level is intended for high-intermediate students. Once completed, you may earn general education credits and become eligible to apply for diploma or graduate certificate programs at Cambrian College, provided you meet all other admission requirements.
You will progress through the program by successfully completing each level, which consists of 23 in-person hours of instruction per week over 14 weeks. To progress, you must achieve a minimum average of 70% in each level. If you are aiming to enter post-graduate programs, an average of 80% or higher is required in three core courses: Reading II, Writing II, and Oral Communications II.
Program highlights
- Varies from four to 12 months, depending on language proficiency
- Small class sizes
- Conversation circles, field trips, and social gatherings
- Access to tutors, workshops, and academic success advisors
- Pathway to college or university studies in Canada
Program of study for 2026-27 Academic Year
Students may be assessed with advanced standing and start at a higher level.
| Semester 1 | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 1014 | Oral Communication for Academic Purposes I | 6 |
| ESL 1016 | Introduction to Computer Applications | 2 |
| ESL 1022 | EAP Reading I | 6 |
| ESL 1025 | Canadian Perspectives I | 3 |
| ESL 1033 | EAP Writing I | 6 |
| Credits | 23 | |
| Semester 2 | ||
| ESL 1017 | Reading for Academic Purposes II | 6 |
| ESL 1018 | Writing for Academic Purposes II | 6 |
| ESL 1019 | Oral Communication for Academic Purposes II | 6 |
| ESL 1020 | Canadian Perspectives II | 3 |
| ESL 1021 | Student Success for Higher Learning | 2 |
| Credits | 23 | |
| Total Credits | 46 | |
Admission requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent from the home country. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or mathematics courses at the Basic Level or with Workplace or Open courses will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission, OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate, OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate, OR
- Mature student status (19 years or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing.
A language placement test is required.
The chart below outlines the EAPP Level Placement according to standard Language Test scores:
| EAPP Level | Oxford Spotlight | Duolingo | IELTS | TOEFL iBT |
| Foundations | 0 - 40 | 0 - 55 | ||
| Level A | 35 - 50 | 60 - 75 | 4.0 - 4.5 | 32 |
| Level B | 55 - 70 | 80 - 105 | 5.0 - 5.5 | 35 - 46 |
Program delivery
2026-2027
Fall term start
SEMESTER 1: Fall 2026
SEMESTER 2: Winter 2027
Winter term start
SEMESTER 1: Winter 2027
SEMESTER 2: Spring 2027
Spring term start
SEMESTER 1: Spring 2027
SEMESTER 2: Fall 2027
Employment opportunities
Graduates of the General Arts and Science - English for Academic Purposes program are able to communicate effectively in Canadian educational and workplace environments, leading to various academic and employment opportunities.
Please note: Cambrian College strives to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website. Please note that the academic curriculum is continually reviewed and revised to ensure that Cambrian's programs and courses remain relevant. The College reserves the right to cancel or make changes to any course or program, fee, procedure, or campus location at any time.
