Language Immersion Courses in Canada

Canada has two official languages, English and French, and language schools teach both to international students, adults on a career break, teenagers on summer programmes and students preparing for a Canadian college or university. Most of the country is English-speaking; French is the majority language in Quebec, so Montreal is the usual choice for French, while Vancouver and Toronto are the main destinations for English.

Language schools in Canada include private schools, language centres attached to universities and colleges, and schools that are part of international networks. Languages Canada, the national association of language programmes, says it represents over 160 accredited programmes in public and private institutions across nine provinces. SpainExchange currently lists 27 language schools in Canada, mainly in Vancouver (8), Toronto (7) and Montreal (4).

Courses and accreditation

According to EduCanada, the Government of Canada's study portal, the main types of programme are:

• general, academic, business and technical English or French
• preparation for tests such as CAEL, IELTS, TOEFL, TEF Canada, TCF or Cambridge English
• university and college pathway programmes
• internships and work experience
• seasonal activities and camps for young learners
• teacher training such as CELTA, TESL or TESOL

Courses are usually sold by the week rather than by semester, and every school places new students with a level test. EduCanada recommends looking for schools accredited by Languages Canada; all accredited programmes are members of the association, and accreditation covers student services, teaching staff, curriculum, marketing and administration, and admissions. It is worth checking a school's accreditation before booking.

Examples on SpainExchange show the range. ILSC has schools in Montréal, Toronto and Vancouver and, according to the school, more than 700 university and college pathway partners. The Royal Canadian Institute of International Studies (RCIIS), a three-minute walk from Davisville subway station in midtown Toronto, offers over 20 programmes. Montréal Language Studies (MLS) teaches English, French and other languages to business people, government employees and students. University-based options include Queen's University School of English in Kingston and the University of Guelph's English Language Programs.

Pathways to college and university

You must speak English or French to study at a Canadian college or university, and many language schools prepare students for this. Some offer pathway programmes with partner institutions: the Canadian College of English Language (CCEL) in Vancouver, for example, describes a pathway to colleges and universities across Canada without the need to pass TOEFL or IELTS. Check the conditions with the partner institution, since each sets its own admission requirements.

Study permit and work

A programme of six months or less does not require a study permit, and it does not need a provincial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) either. Adults who study at a language school for longer must apply for a study permit; minors under 18 may need a special study permit. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) does not allow students who are only enrolled in an English or French as a second language programme to work off campus, and studying English or French as a second language does not lead to a post-graduation work permit.

Costs

EduCanada states that language schools usually charge tuition by the week, typically CAN$340 to CAN$425 per week (2026). Each school sets its own fees. Accommodation comes on top: students live with a homestay family, in the school's residence or in a rented room or apartment. CCEL, for example, has a student residence on Robson Street, a 15-minute walk from its campus.

How to choose a language school

• Language and city: English in Vancouver or Toronto, French or both languages in Montreal
• Languages Canada accreditation
• Course type: general, academic, exam preparation or a pathway to a college or university
• Intensity: full-time or part-time, morning, afternoon or evening classes
• Length of stay: under six months without a study permit, or longer with one
• Accommodation: homestay, residence or rental

Frequently asked questions

How much does a language course in Canada cost?

According to EduCanada, tuition typically ranges from CAN$340 to CAN$425 per week. Accommodation and living costs come on top.

Do I need a study permit for a language course in Canada?

Not if the programme lasts six months or less. For longer courses, adults must apply for a study permit before they arrive.

Can I work while studying English or French in Canada?

Not off campus if you are only enrolled in an English or French as a second language programme. Students who go on to a full-time college or university programme may be able to work under their study permit.

Where can I learn French in Canada?

Montreal, in French-speaking Quebec, is the main destination. Schools such as ILSC and Montréal Language Studies teach French there.