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All classes in this program will be delivered online for the Winter 2021 term due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated health and safety guidelines. Learn more
Overview
The English Language Foundations (ELF) program provides English language upgrading for learners whose first language is not English.
Students are placed into the program based on demonstrated proficiency in English, using the Canadian Language Benchmarks Assessment (CLBA) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination. Most students use the ELF program as entry into SAIT career programs.
The ELF curriculum encourages development in all language areas: speaking, listening, reading and writing.
- Five-level program
- Six start dates per year (eight-week terms)
- Full and part-time studies; evening/weekend courses available
- Intensive, skills-focused approach
- Proficiency-based placement and advancement
- Completion of ELF 5 is accepted in lieu of English 30 for most programs at SAIT
ELF is a five-level program and each level has two courses: one in reading and writing (COMN), and the other in listening and speaking (SPCH).
Full-time day language instruction:
- Two courses per week for eight weeks
- 22 hours per week in class, Monday - Friday, plus 15-20 hours of homework
- Courses available in the morning (8 am, 10 am) or afternoon (12 pm, 2 pm)
Part-time instruction:
Day:
- One course per week for eight weeks
- 11 hours per week in class, plus 7-10 hours of homework
- Morning or afternoon courses available
Evening:
- One or two courses per week for 16 weeks
- Five hours and two evenings per week (2.5 hours each evening)
- Online registration available
Program start and end dates**
|
Full and part-time language instruction:
** Dates are subject to change |
Part-time language instruction: Evening
Evening dates (program starts at 6 pm) |
International students
The International Centre provides assistance to international students interested in studying at SAIT. International students can take the English Language Foundations program in preparation for SAIT career programs.
Is this the right fit for me?
Progress in the ELF program depends on the student's demonstration of proficiency. Instructors regularly assess student progress through classroom assignments, participation and examinations. Students who achieve a rating of 50% (D) in all subjects can be recommended for promotion to the next level.
ELF is a fast-track program. Students should be prepared to dedicate considerable time to study and actively use their English outside of class time. SAIT career programs require academic appropriate English skills in all areas: reading, writing, listening and speaking.
Prepare for SAIT programs
After successfully completing the ELF program, the majority of graduates are prepared for admission into SAIT career programs as completion of ELF level 5 is accepted as equivalent to English 30 for most programs at SAIT.
Students in ELF Levels 4 and 5 may combine ELF coursework with Academic Upgrading subjects in math or science.
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $6,635
Year 1 (International): $15,465
Year 1: TBA
Year 1 (International): $15,654
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
Full costs
Tuition and financial aid
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
When can you apply?
- Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for fall 2020 open Oct. 2, 2019.
- Application for winter 2021 open March 30, 2020.
- Applications for fall 2021 open Oct. 7, 2020
| Term | Program start |
|---|---|
| Fall 2020 | Oct. 26, 2020 |
| Winter 2021 | Jan. 11, 2021 |
| Winter 2021 | March 8, 2021 |
| Spring 2021 | May 3, 2021 |
| Summer 2021 | July 5, 2021 |
| Fall 2021 | Aug. 30, 2021 |
| Fall 2021 | Oct. 25, 2021 |
Get to know English Language Foundations
Our English language program will help you build the confidence and skills to further your education and career.
Admission Requirements
To register for the English Language Foundations program, you must complete either a Canadian Language Benchmark Assessment (CLBA) and obtain a minimum score of 4 in all categories, or complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and obtain a minimum band score of 3. 5 in all categories. CLBA or IELTS tests must be completed at least one week before the course start date.
Testing Information
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English Proficiency Test - CLBA and IELTS (Academic test).
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Course Equivalents
Bridging pathways
Based on the English Language Foundations (ELF) equivalency policy, students who have successfully completed some level at either of one of the SAIT pathway programs partners or other post-secondary academics English as a Second Language (ESL) programs may also be accepted. For more information, please contact the ELF office 403.210.4045 or english.language@sait.ca.
Are you interested in applying for the Business Administration program?
English Language Foundations and Business Administration Plus is a new admission option that allows international applicants who meet the academic requirements to the Business Administration diploma but do not meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements.
Direct Entry: Four Step Process (International students)
Step 1: Read the program information.
Step 2:Apply to English Language Foundations through Apply Alberta and select a start date.
- Admission will be extended on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
Step 3: Find out how to monitor your application status after you apply.
Step 4: Once you receive your SAIT student ID number, schedule a CLBA by calling 403.210.4045 or email english.language@sait.ca.
Please note: We recommend that you arrive in Calgary at least one week before classes start so you can complete the CLBA and receive your scores to register for courses.
Domestic students
You can register for courses on an ongoing basis.
Courses
Program outline
View additional English Language Foundations program information including course-specific descriptions and requisites.
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COMN-151 | Communications 1 | 3.0 |
| COMN-152 | Communications 2 | 3.0 |
| COMN-153 | Communications 3 | 3.0 |
| COMN-154 | Communications 4 | 3.0 |
| COMN-155 | Communications 5 | 3.0 |
| SPCH-151 | Speech 1 | 3.0 |
| SPCH-152 | Speech 2 | 3.0 |
| SPCH-153 | Speech 3 | 3.0 |
| SPCH-154 | Speech 4 | 3.0 |
| SPCH-155 | Speech 5 | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 30.0 |
Progression
Level 1 (communications and speech) leads to level 2, which in turn leads to level 3, 4 and 5. However, students entering the program with a CLBA may begin at any point between levels 1-4 depending on their score. Students entering with IELTS, depending on their band score, may begin at any point between levels 1-5.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer to, within or from SAIT is available with the following universities and colleges:
- Chinook Learning Services
To learn more, visit Transfer Options.
Costs
The program fees listed below include the cost of one level, which has two courses. If you only take one course, the fee will be $657 for domestic students and $1,340 for international students. There may be additional fees depending on the number of courses taken.
Domestic students may be eligible for government grant funding through the Foundational Learning Program.
2020/21 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2020/21 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6,635 | - | - | - | $6,635 |
2020/21 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2020/21 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $14,341 | - | - | $155 | $15,465 |
2021/22 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
Check back for updates on the 2021/22 domestic tuition and fees.
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2020/21 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TBA | $- | $- | $- | TBA |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2020/21 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $14,341 | $682 | $288 | $344 | $15,654 |
SAIT Fees
Campus athletic and recreation Fee: $171.20
Universal transit pass (UPass): $310 - Check eligibility here.
Student support fee: $100
Student technology fee: $100
Health and Dental Fees
Domestic Students
- Health Plan: $122
- Dental Plan: $130
- For students with existing health and/or dental plans, please refer to the Saitsa website for information on opting out.
International Students
- Health and Dental Plan: $344
- For more information on Health and Dental Benefits for International students please contact the International Centre.
Books and supplies*
- Find out about tuition and financial aid.
* Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
Winter 2021
Orientation
Orientation for new students will take place online on Jan. 8, 2021.
To find the time and platform, visit our orientation page.
Delivery
All classes in this program will be delivered online for the Winter 2021 term due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated health and safety guidelines.
How to register for classes
You will be registered into courses by your program advisor.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with a standard hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Required textbooks
No textbooks are required for this program.
Contact
Phone: 403.210.4045
Email: english.language@sait.ca
Academic chair
Rekiyat (Gifty) Siyaka, Academic Chair
Email: rekiyat.siyaka@sait.ca
Next steps for students that began in Fall 2020
Fall 2020DeliveryAll classes in this program will be delivered online for the Fall 2020 term due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated health and safety guidelines. How to register for classesStudents should work with an advisor for registration details. Computers and laptopsThis is a bring your own device program with a standard hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page. Required textbooksNo textbooks are required for this program. |
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.