Continuing Education

English as a Second Language

Improve your language skills with NAIT’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program

NAIT ESL is excited to offer all levels 1- 6 both online and face-to-face. Delivery mode availability is subject to change. 

English language learning has never been so flexible or convenient!

The NAIT ESL department prides itself on offering the best online and face-to-face language learning classes. Whether you choose to study online or face-to-face, you will have a great learning experience guided by our friendly and knowledgeable instructors. In a comfortable classroom setting, you will improve your language and study skills, while confidently exploring the richness of Canadian culture.

Are You An International Student?

All ESL levels 1- 6 may be offered both online and face-to-face. Availability of each delivery method is subject to enrolment numbers. 

International students in downtown Edmonton

International Students are students who:

  • Have a study permit and PAL
  • Do not have a study permit but plan to study online
  • Plan to study for more than one 4 month term
  • Visitors and workers studying one 4 month term
Learn more about the benefits of studying at NAIT as an international student! We take pride in creating opportunities for students across the world.

Do you have questions about study permits?

Please contact nait.ca/help and we will connect you with one of our licensed team members.

ELP tests to waive the ESL placement test

Students with one of the tests listed below can enroll in NAIT ESL without taking the Placement Test.

If you have any of the tests listed below, please follow these steps:

  1. Complete the ESL application and pay the deposit (click here to go to the application)
  2. Email continuingeducation@nait.ca and attach your test results document to the email. Also include your full name and NAIT student ID number in the email.
  3. You will receive an email response with the next steps within 10 business days.

If your test is not on the list or if your score is lower than those shown here, we will contact you to book a NAIT ESL Placement Test.

NAIT ESL Levels

ELP scores to waive the ESL placement test

TEST Result Validity

NESL

Level 6

  • IELTS (Academic Format): 5.5 Overall Band Score, with no band less than 5.5
  • TOEFL: 56-69 with a minimum score of 14 in each band score.

  • Duolingo English Test: overall score of minimum 100, with a minimum score of 100 in "Production".
  • IELTS: 2 years
  • TOEFL: 2 years
  • Duolingo: 2 years

NESL

Level 5

  • IELTS (Academic Format): 5.0 Overall Band Score, with no band less than 5.0
  • TOEFL: 46-55 with a minimum score of 12 in each band score.
  • Duolingo English Test: overall score of minimum 90-95, with a minimum score of 95 in "Production".
  • IELTS: 2 years
  • TOEFL: 2 years
  • Duolingo: 2 years

NESL

Level 4

  • IELTS (Academic Format): 5.0 Overall Band Score, with no band less than 4.5
  • TOEFL: 35-45
  • Duolingo English Test: overall score of minimum 80-85, with a minimum score of 85 in "Production".
  • IELTS: 2 years
  • TOEFL: 2 years
  • Duolingo: 2 years

NESL

Level 3

  • IELTS (Academic Format): 4.5 Overall Band Score, with no band less than 4
  • TOEFL: 32-34
  • Duolingo English Test: overall score of minimum 65-75, with a minimum score of 75 in "Production".
  • IELTS: 2 years
  • TOEFL: 2 years
  • Duolingo: 2 years

NESL

Level 2

Book a NAIT ESL Placement Test

  • NAIT ESL Placement Test:
    9 months

NESL

Level 1

Book a NAIT ESL Placement Test

  • NAIT ESL Placement Test:
    9 months

Note: This equivalency table is an approximate guideline. NAIT ESL department also conducts a battery of diagnostic tests to ensure all students are correctly placed. Therefore, NAIT ESL reserves the right to place a student in a level that best matches their academic skills.

With each application, students are entitled to one equivalency test being assessed. Multiple tests of the same or different types will not be assessed. Students can choose which test to provide for assessment. If a valid, recent NAIT ESL Placement Test is on file or if a NAIT ESL Placement test is taken after an equivalency test is assessed, the NAIT ESL Placement will be used to determine the student's level. Please also note that diagnostic tests carried out in the first weeks of classes will carry the final placement decision. 

How to Apply and Enrol to ESL

Related Programs & Courses

Shopping Cart Quick View
Open Shopping Cart