Information About ELSA

 

What will I learn in ELSA classes?

ELSA will teach you how to speak and understand English. ELSA will also teach you how to read and write in English. You will learn about important things like Canadian laws, health care, society and jobs. Some ELSA classes can teach you how to find a job, use a computer and communicate in the workplace.

 

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ELSA Levels
We have ELSA classes for people with different levels of English. If you cannot speak English, you will start at level 1. If you are a beginner, you will start at level 2 or 3. If you speak some English, you can start at level 4 or 5. Newcomers with moderate English speaking skills will be placed in levels 6 or 7.

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How do I get started?
Your first step is to visit an assessment centre. It’s the job of the assessment centre to make sure you are able to take the classes. Once they have checked to make sure you can take a class, they will send you to a school near you. You will need to fill out an application form and give the assessment center some official documents.

Find an ELSA assessment centre

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Where can I find an ELSA class?
The Government of British Columbia has set up ELSA schools across the province. 

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How do I know if I am allowed to take free ELSA classes?
1. You must be newcomer to British Columbia to be allowed to take an ELSA class.
2. You must be 17 years old or older.
3. You must be approved for permanent residence.

Read about what you need to take a free ELSA class.

If you are a naturalized Canadian citizen or a refugee claimant, you are not allowed to take free ELSA classes in Metro Vancouver. Naturalized citizens and refugee claimants can only take free ELSA classes outside Metro Vancouver.

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When can I take ELSA classes?
Classes are offered all year. They can be taken in the morning, afternoon or evening. Full-time classes are 25 hours a week. Part-time classes are 9 to 15 hours a week.

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What can I do with my children while I am in class?
Do you need someone to take care of your children while you learn English? Some ELSA schools have free childcare for children under five years of age. There is also a provincial childcare subsidy to help families pay for childcare. Contact an Immigrant Settlement Agency near you to find out if you are eligible for a childcare subsidy.

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What if I cannot take ELSA?
Are there any other programs to help me?
There are other programs to help you learn English:

  • Find an English as a Second Language (ESL) tutor
  • Help your children learn English-for free
  • Study English at a college or university

Read more on these services.

There are also programs to help you improve your English and job skills:

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What documents can I use to apply for ELSA classes?

You can apply using any one of the following documents:

  • Permanent Resident Card (PRC)
  • Interim Confirmation of Permanent Residence (form IMM5292)
  • Record of Landing (form IMM1000 - issued prior to June 2002)
  • Visitor Record case type 17
  • Work Permit (Employment Authorization) case type 27
  • Studey Permit (Student Authorization) case type 37
  • Temporary Resident Permit (Ministerial Permit) case type 86, 87, 88 or 89
  • Notice of Decision from the Refugee Protection Division of the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) confirming convention refugee (CR) status
  • Letter from Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) giving approval to remain in Canada while application for permanent residence is being finalized (approval in principle)
  • Letter from the B.C. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • Live-in Caregiver work permit

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