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:
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
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.
Career Path – NEW!
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.
Qualified applicants will complete the ELF portion of their studies and upon completion of the appropriate ELF level 5 will transition to Business Administration program.