Original institution profile. Names, programs and contact details await review.
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StudyCanada guide · reviewed October 2026
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Official resources
My study plan →Read the current guide on this topic →Historical record
The original text is preserved below.
When students choose the English Language Institute at The University of British Columbia, they know that they will receive first-rate English instruction from skilled instructors in surroundings which will motivate them to study, to explore and to enrich themselves.
Since our beginnings in 1969, we have earned an international reputation as a leader in the field of English language training in Canada. Our students experience life at one of Canada's largest and highest-rated universities, and at the same time are part of the friendly, supportive community of learning that is the ELI.
Vancouver is world-famous for its natural beauty and easy-going urban appeal. The sprawling UBC campus on the tip of the Point Grey Peninsula is known for its breath-taking vistas, old-growth forests and lush gardens. Yet we are just minutes from some of the city's most popular shopping and restaurant districts, and just a short drive or bus-ride away from downtown Vancouver.
The ELI building is in a central part of the campus, close to many UBC amenities - libraries, museum, bookstore, sports facilities, galleries, theatres, cafeterias and dormitories. In addition to our bright, comfortable classrooms, our building also has a student lounge and Student Study Centre, two multi-media language labs, free internet and email access, and other resources for self-guided study. Our social activities program keeps everyone busy having fun on evenings and weekends. It is run by our own enthusiastic Cultural Assistants, who, like all the ELI staff, are always happy to answer questions and talk with students.
Programs from the archive.
Intensive English Program
Historical record
The original text is preserved below.
Our Intensive English Program (IEP) provides full-time English language training in 12-week sessions beginning in January, April and September. We also offer a ten-week IEP session in July and August.
The IEP has six levels (100-600), from Elementary to Proficiency. New students take written and spoken tests to determine their start level and choose a program of Communication and/or Academic Preparation courses. Courses all focus on skills such as Speaking and Listening, Reading and Grammar, Writing, Pronunciation or Examination (TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS and Cambridge). Topics discussed vary from course to course but may include World News and Current Events, Drama, Business Concepts or Canadian Lifestyle and Culture.
You will receive grades for the work you do in the Intensive English Program. When you pass the courses at each level, the English Language Institute will issue you a transcript of your grades. Students who successfully complete three courses at the same level receive a University of British Columbia Certificate of English Language. Our IEP Level 600 Certificate is accepted by UBC as proof of English language proficiency (equivalent to the TOEFL requirement) for admission to undergraduate degree programs.