The Academic Program was designed as a comprehensive English for Academic Purposes preparation for students at any level of English. In this program, you’ll join a diverse community of students like yourself— people eager to learn English and pursue their studies in Canada. In the last five years, our students have come from over 70 nationalities.

To view all English Language Institute preparation programs, visit our Proficiency Pathway table.

Admission requirements

If you are at least 18 years old you are eligible to enrol in our Academic Program. If you are under 18, you still may be eligible to enrol. Please contact the English Language Institute to confirm.

Levels AP1-AP5

Levels AP1-AP5 focus on helping build a solid foundation of English proficiency in all four language skills: Reading, writing, listening and speaking.

Students who successfully complete Level AP5 may apply to the York University English Language Institute’s YUBridge Program, where they can take a class for academic credit while completing the remainder of their language proficiency requirements to be admitted to York.

Levels AP6-AP9

Levels AP6-AP9 focus on the language, critical thinking and study skills required to be a successful student in a university or college setting where English is the language of instruction.

Students who successfully complete Level AP6 are eligible to apply for Conditional Admission* to York University. Students with conditional acceptance are also eligible to apply to the Pre-Destination York Program.

Students with conditional acceptance who successfully complete Level AP7 or the Pre-Destination York Program are eligible to apply to the Destination York Program, where they can complete the equivalent of Levels AP8 and AP9 in one very intensive eight-week program.

Online Delivery

All courses are delivered through Zoom and custom-designed classes in the Moodle platform, allowing you to prepare for university from the comfort of your own home. Our online courses require 3 hours per day of live online instruction. You will also have a weekly five-hour module of self-study to advance your English proficiency.

Materials

You will need a computer with reliable, high-speed internet and a camera and microphone. An e-mail account, internet library access, and textbooks are included in the tuition fee.

Schedule

• 3 hours per day of required live online instruction
• 5 hours per week for self-study module and additional homework to advance your English proficiency
• Certain classes are offered in multiple time zones
• Regular opportunities to participate in cultural activities

Language Level Placement

Placement level can be determined by standardized test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo) or through our convenient online placement test.

Out-of-class Timetable

The University Life program provides a range of co-curricular activities including:

• Conversation Partners
• Virtual activities with other members of the York community
• Online workshops on university life skills, including topics such as time management skills, applying for admission, and testing strategies

Accommodation

Accommodations in homestay and on-campus at York University residence is available.

Enrolment Changes, Cancellations and Refunds

Please refer to our Deferral, Transfer, Cancellation and Refund Policy.