English as a Second Language (ESL) training is important to both international students and landed immigrants. Canada is one of the five most popular host countries for international students, and British Columbia is the preferred destination in Canada for international students. For more information on studying in Canada, please visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada's website. In addition, information about studying in British Columbia is available through the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development's LearnLive BC website and on the website of the British Columbia Centre for International Education.
Adult students seeking ESL training in British Columbia have a number of options to choose from, including programs offered through the public post-secondary system, and at more than 100 private institutions across the province. Students considering a private language school should be aware of recent changes in the way these institutions are regulated in British Columbia.
Under the Private Career Training Institutions Act, the Private Career Training Institutions Agency (PCTIA) now regulates private career-training institutions and has replaced the Private Post-Secondary Education Commission (PPSEC). Under the act, institutions that offer only language training programs are no longer required to register with the PCTIA. Institutions that are not registered with the PCTIA are not subject to the requirements of the Act.
While private language schools are not required to register, they can voluntarily register with the PCTIA. By registering, private language schools that choose to register ensure tuition protection for their students through participation in the Student Training Completion Fund, which is administered by the PCTIA. The fund helps students who are unable to complete programs because their registered institution has closed. The fund gives students the option of completing their studies at another institution or receiving a tuition refund. Students who are attending non-registered schools can not make claims against the fund.
Institutions registered with the PCTIA may also seek accreditation. To become accredited, an institution must meet standards of educational and operational quality set by the PCTIA. Please contact the PCTIA directly to determine if a particular institution is registered or accredited.
The Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development provides further information for international students on the Being An Informed Student web pages.
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