English Language Schools in Canada

Canada is a huuuuge country, the fourth largest in the world in fact, covering six time zones covering vast expanses of mountain, forest, and ice. But, the biggest population centers in the country rest near the U.S. border, each one a highly developed, multicultural urban metropolis perfect for hosting English language learners.

Toronto is probably the city that everyone thinks is the capital of Canada (which is Ottawa, by the way), and for good reason. It’s the biggest city in Canada, but 50 percent of its residents are not actually from Canada, resulting in a great diversity of cultural attractions and exhibitions the city’s motto “Diversity Our Strength” is built upon. English is the main language spoken in Toronto, so you can expect to find many exceptional English language schools and academies, high school programs, and universities that offer English language courses, such as the University of Toronto, one of the highest-ranking universities in the world.

Vancouver, named “Hollywood North” for being the set of many movies and TV shows, is firstly a major tourist destination. Surrounded by nature, including one of the largest urban parks on the continent, Vancouver is regularly ranked as one of the world’s top cities for its superb quality of life. Aside from being the frequent host of many international sporting events, the city is renowned for its cultural and linguistic diversity. There are a number of homestay English immersion programs based in Vancouver, as well as traditional classroom taught English language courses, degrees, and certificates you can participate in.  

If you want a little taste (un petit goût) of France while learning English in Canada, Montreal is a former French colony, and one of the most bilingual cities in Canada. You won’t have to worry about confusing your oohs from your laas, or the stereotypical French rudeness either, as Montreal has been ranked one of the top ten best cities in the world to be a student. There are a variety of English language programs in Montreal. You should grab the chance to learn English in Canada by studying in Montreal if you’re looking for an experience that isn’t purely academic, since Canada’s cultural capital is teeming with international life, from World Film Festivals to the Canadian Grand Prix.

If language purism is important to you, Canadian English is spelled using the same system as British English, yet still has different linguistic traits from both American and British English. Canada’s internationally recognized educational institutions all provide excellent linguistic training in varied forms, degrees, and lengths.

The possibilities for English language courses in Canada are endless, ranging from just a few weeks of study to semester-long courses to complete English language degree programs. English language programs are offered by accredited study abroad agencies, private language schools, international language institutions, and world-renowned Canadian universities. The difficulty of learning English in Canada also varies, so be sure to choose the program that fits your level and learning style; some are more intensive, with a larger commitment in terms of hours and lessons, but some are geared more toward the overall cultural experience that is traditional in international language programs.

Canadian English is a strange amalgam of American and British English. The accent is more similar to an American one, but still maintains its own distinct features, like pronouncing words with “ou” as “oo,” like “aboot” instead of about. Canadian English also combines American and British spelling, but you’ll still be understood if you misspell a word. 

Some words used in Canada aren’t typically associated with English though, as Canada is also French-speaking. Poutine, for example, a famous Canadian dish, comes from the dialect of French spoken in Quebec. However, you’ll be able to easily adjust to these simple changes in vocabulary during your time in Canada.

Canada is a very affordable country, and has been found to have lower living costs than the majority of developed countries. Food, recreation, and gasoline are all comparatively cheaper in Canada than in most Western countries, for example. 

In terms of learning English in Canada, language program fees generally include tuition, accommodation, internet access, and a limited amount of cultural activities, depending on the specific program you choose. Luckily, there are low-cost language program options in Canada, some of which offer payment plan options, that vary in price and duration to suit your needs. Keep in mind that most English language courses in Canada that aren’t provided by a university tend to be cheaper, shorter, and base costs in dollars per week, making it easy to adjust your duration to your budget.

A new kind of language barrier. Canadian English can probably be considered its own distinct dialect, very nearly incoherent to some native English speakers because of its slang, expressions, and accent. However, the beauty of learning English in Canada, or learning a new language anywhere in the world, is in appreciating things like the famous Canadian interjection, “Eh?!”; when you assimilate enough to Canadian culture, you will come to realize that expressions convey so much more than you thought.

A real introduction to Canadians. You’ve likely never heard a single bad thing ever directed toward Canadians or a single jeering stereotype. If you think that Canada is not rich enough in cultural diversity and attractions, just consider that the kindness and hospitality Canada promises to its visitors is perhaps one of the most singular cultural experiences you can enjoy.

A proportionately large percentage of those who decide to learn English in Canada, or study any subject for that matter, end up staying in Canada long after their studies. If that doesn’t speak volumes to you about just how exceptional Canada’s quality of life is, and how accepting and welcoming the people are, then you may not understand what we mean just yet! Start learning English in Canada and you’ll soon find out why so many people end up calling Canada home for good.