English as a Second Language

Many international students begin their studies with an Intensive English Language program at the University’s TESL Centre (for the Teaching of English as a Second Language).   The Centre serves not only international students but also immigrants and Canadian citizens who speak a language other than English at home.  

 

At Saint Mary’s you will find a high-quality English-learning experience in a supportive learning community.   As a student at the TESL Centre you are fully immersed in an English university environment and have access to all university facilities – gymnasium, library, dormitory, health clinic - and our many student services. 

 

If you would like to earn a degree at Saint Mary’s University but do not yet meet the English language proficiency requirements, you can still apply.  The Admissions Office  can offer 'conditional admission' to students who meet the academic requirements but who do not yet meet the English language proficiency requirements.   A conditional offer of admission means that you can begin your academic studies at Saint Mary’s as soon as you meet these requirements, either by submitting results from a test of English language proficiency or by successfully completing an intensive English language program at the TESL Centre.

 

The Saint Mary’s University TESL Centre offers year-round intensive English language programs to suit a variety of interests, whether academic, personal, or professional.  Students who have conditional admission to Saint Mary’s University can gain full admission to undergraduate degree programs by successfully completing Level 6 of the English for Academic Purposes program or the University Bridging Program.

 

English for Academic Purposes is offered year-round in intensive eight-week sessions with 25 hours of English language instruction per week preparing students for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in an English-medium university environment.

 

The University Bridging Program allows students to improve their English language skills in 15 hours of instruction per week, while concurrently completing one or two courses for credit toward an undergraduate degree program at Saint Mary’s.

 

ESL Support Services offers English help to non-native speakers who are studying at Saint Mary's University in credit programs.  These services include a drop-in centre and response to questions by e-mail.

 

TESL programs also serve as a cultural introduction to Nova Scotia, with cultural activities such as apple picking, tall ship sailing, skiing, and more. To learn more about the Intensive English language programs offered at Saint Mary’s University, please consult the web pages of the TESL Centre.