English as a Second Language (ESL)

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

Learn English online or in-person with NAIT

Our ESL program offers flexibility and helps you learn English in different learning styles. Study from wherever you are!

Our program helps you succeed by:

  • keeping class sizes small
  • offering you individual support
  • having materials easily accessible on your course site
  • employing teachers who are friendly and approachable
  • recording your lessons so you can watch them again
  • allowing time to practice with your classmates
Learn more and apply to the ESL program

Why study English at NAIT?

NAIT ESL classes offer a flexible and a life-changing learning environment to make your future academic and professional success a reality. 

Focus on Personal Goals

Longer courses mean that we can help you with your career goals while learning English.

ESL Support and Services

A team dedicated to support you and explore your future academic plans at NAIT.

Interactive and Connected

Our classes use the newest technology so you can be confident in your digital skills.


Where do I start?

NAIT is able to customize your starting level in the program by having you take an ESL level placement test. Depending on your familiarity with English, you will be placed in a level to start at. Each level takes 4-months to complete. If you have to start at level 1, the ESL program would take 6 terms to complete for a total of 2 years if taken continuously.

Those who qualify may take our new Intensive Program. Meet your ELP requirements with our 7.5 week Level 5 and Level 6 courses!

English program journey at NAIT

Learn more about the ESL program

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

ESL and Academic Upgrading Funding

The Foundational Learning Assistance program provides funding for Albertans in designated Full-Time and Part-Time programs.

Additional English Courses

Looking for a short course that will help you improve a specific part of English learning? These workshop-style courses are meant for those who need extra help in just one area or would like practice before an English exam.

NESL704 - Academic Grammar and Writing

 
Delivery Options: Evening, Online Hours: 20 Fees: $225

Enhance your academic writing skills. Begin with sentence structure and paragraphs and advance to essays and graph analysis.

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NESL705 - Pronunciation Listening & Speaking

 
Delivery Options: Online, Evening Hours: 20 Fees: $225

Gain confidence in speaking English as a second language and improve your fluency and pronunciation. It is essential to gain practical experience speaking and listening while learning a new language.

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NESL710 - ESL Language and Culture Activities Course

 
Delivery Options: Day Hours: 37 Fees: $1765

This 2-to-6-week course is tailored for students who aim to enhance their social and life skills while gaining insight into Canadian culture.

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NESL716 - ELP Intensive Preparation Course

 
Delivery Options: Evening, Online Hours: 20 Fees: $225

If you are interested in completing NAIT’s English Language Proficiency examination and would like to familiarize yourself with the format and question types, this course is tailored for you.

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NESL717 - IELTS Preparation Course - Writing Focus

 
Delivery Options: Evening, Online Hours: 18 Fees: $295

Take the IELTS Academic English Language Test with confidence! Master tips and techniques that can help you improve your score, especially in the writing component, which tends to be the most...

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NESL718 - CELPIP Preparation Course

 
Delivery Options: Day, Online Hours: 18 Fees: $295

This comprehensive 18-hour preparatory course is designed to familiarize participants with the CELPIP test, a requirement for obtaining Permanent Resident status and Canadian Citizenship in Canada.

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NESL818 - Workplace Communication and Safety Strategies (ESL) 1

 
Delivery Options: Evening, Online Hours: 40 Fees: $650

Knowing how to communicate effectively in the workplace is essential to becoming an active and contributing member of an organizational team and promoting increased levels of safety in the workplace.

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NESL900 - English Language Proficiency (ELP) Exam

 
Delivery Options: Online, Day Hours: 0 Fees: $175

The NAIT English Language Proficiency (ELP) Exam is for students applying to a NAIT credit program and need to submit proof of ELP as part of their application.

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English Requirements and Testing

English Language Proficiency Exam

The English Language Proficiency exam will evaluate your ability to read, write and speak in the English. This exam is required if you apply to a credit program and English is not your first language.

IELTS

The International English Language Testing System is trusted by post-secondary institutions, governments, private corporations and accreditation bodies around the world.

International Students

International

Learn about the benefits of studying at NAIT as an international student! We take pride in creating opportunities for students across the world.

NAIT International Brand Video

Discover what its like to attend NAIT in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Tips for prospective international students

Our NAIT international students talk about studying in Canada and share some tips for prospective students.

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