1. How many hours per week is the English as a Second Language program and how many levels are there?
The English as a Second Language program is an intensive full-time program (20 hours/week) -
20 hours in a traditional class setting. There are eight levels.
2. How many students are there in an ESL class?
Class sizes vary depending on the level of instruction. Lower levels tend to have smaller class sizes.
At the higher levels, students prepare for academic studies and are expected to adapt to larger groups. Average class size is 15-22.
3. What level will I start at?
All new International students entering the ESL program will be required to complete a TOEIC placement test.
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4. Is there an orientation for new students?
Orientation is offered to new International students entering the ESL program.
Click here for the orientation dates.
5. What will my class schedule be like?
Classes are held Monday to Friday, either 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. or 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. depending on your level of study.
6.Do you offer scholarships/financial assistance to International students?
Scholarships and bursaries are available through individual programs based upon student academic performance and leadership skills. Limited financial assistance may be available in emergency situations.
7. How much money will I need for one year of study?
You will require approximately $22,000 CAD to cover tuition fees, living expenses, clothing, entertainment, local travel, books and supplies etc.
8. How can I get a study permit?
You can apply for a study permit from your home country at the closest Canadian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate once you have received a letter of acceptance. To find out how to get a letter of acceptance click here.
9. Can I work while I study?
International students registered in full-time programs can work on or off campus.
The wages offered for on or off campus work would not be considered sufficient enough for tuition and/or living expenses.
10. Can I transfer to University?
Yes! Algonquin has many options for University tranfer. Please click here for more information.
11. What is the weather like in Ottawa?
Ottawa is lucky enough to have four distinct seasons: fall, winter, summer and spring.
Click here for detailed climate information.
12. Why are foreign student fees higher than Canadian fees?
The Ontario government subsidizes Canadian students studying at public instituitions.
The Ontario government receives money from Canadian taxpayers. International students do not pay provincial taxes, so they are not eligible for subsidies and must pay the total cost of tuition.
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13. When are the application deadlines?
You may apply anytime during the year; however, the earlier you start the process, the better chance you will have to obtain a seat in your desired program(s).
14. Do I need health insurance?
All International full-time students have mandatory health insurance included in their tuition fees.
Full-time International students will receive their health insurance card several weeks after they start their program. International students registered in part-time courses or in Co-op must pay additional health insurance and should consult with the International Education Centre.
15. Do you offer extra curricular activities?
Yes! Activities such as bowling, movie night, dancing, skiing, skating etc. are included in the English as a Second Language program as part of the Living Language component.
The Multicultural Buddy Network is a network of students who get together to learn about each other's cultures and spend time in activities of mutual interest. These activities include special outings, meeting for coffee, seeing the sites, shopping, studying together and playing sports. The network links students who are new to Canada with students who want to develop their cross-cultural awareness skills.
16. What is Algonquin College's TOEFL instituition code?
Algonquin College's instituition codes are 7004 and 7005.
17. Is dental care covered in my health insurance?
Dental care is not covered in your comprehensive health insurance package.
However, Algonquin College has a dental clinic on campus.
18. What's the ISIC?
The ISIC, International Student Identity Card, is the only internationally recognised proof of full-time student status providing worldwide photo identity documentation for student travellers.
It allows cardholders to plug into a worldwide network of discounts, services and other benefits including savings on VIA Rail, Greyhound and Travel CUTS/ Voyages Campus' Student Class AirfaresTM.
Download the ISIC Application Form.
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