UBC English Language Institute – Supporting Students in an Immersion Program

For the past 41 years, the University of British Columbia’s English Language Institute (UBC-ELI) has been a leader in ESL education. Understanding the anxiety and concerns student may have when studying abroad, the UBC-ELI has a well rounded support system for all its students. 

First, the UBC-ELI runs an orientation program to help students adjust to studying and living in Canada. The UBC-ELI offers an “Airport Welcome” service and new students will go through a week long orientation program that will introduce students to everything from academic expectations to Canadian culture. Also, students have access to counseling from student advisors at any time if any academic or personal difficulties arise.

Second, the social program allows students to meet new people and make new friends by participating in extra-curricular activities. Students are accompanied by Cultural Assistants (CA’s who are UBC students) on all activities, and as such, students can practice their English and get a better understanding of Canadian culture by interacting with their Canadian peers.  CAs support the students and are their friend and guide to Vancouver and Canadian life.

Finally, the homestay program gives students opportunities to improve their English and learn more about the Canadian way of life by living with Canadian families.  When our in-house homestay department looks at matching students with host families they consider the student’s lifestyle, tastes and even allergies.  In addition, our homestay staff are available to counsel homestay students that encounter problems and can be reached 24 hours and 7 days a week in the case of an emergency.

The UBC-ELI would love to welcome you to Vancouver, Canada! If you are interested in our programs, please go to www.eli.ubc.ca .

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