English Second Language (ESL) Support Program
What is the ESL Support Program?
The ESL Support Program is a one-semester, full-time program for students who have a good understanding of the English language but still require some additional training in specific areas of academic English in order to make the transition into full-time academic study. This program combines advanced ESL courses with academic courses that students take for credit towards their degree programs at UNB Saint John.
Who should take the ESL Support Program?
International students who have been accepted to undergraduate degree programs at UNB Saint John and who:
- have an IELTS (or equivalent) score of 6.0;
- have successfully completed Level 5 of the College's English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program.
What are the English language test score requirements for UNB Saint John's Bachelor and Masters programs?
Students entering Bachelor programs at UNB Saint John must have an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher (or an equivalent test-of-English score). Masters programs generally require a higher English test score for admittance. Students who successfully complete Saint John College's ESL Support Program move directly into their undergraduate programs at UNB Saint John without needing to provide additional test-of-English scores.
How long is the ESL Support Program?
The ESL Support Program is one (1) academic semester (14 weeks).
What courses are included in the ESL Support Program?
Students are required to take three (3) advanced ESL courses which focus on specific areas of academic English, including Listening/Speaking, Reading, and Writing. Students are also permitted to take a maximum of two (2) sheltered academic courses, which are credit courses taught by UNB professors. The sheltered courses are delivered in a way that allows international students to adapt more easily to the challenges and expectations of full-time academic study in undergraduate programs. Examples of commonly offered sheltered courses include: Introduction to Sociology (SOCI 1001), Introduction to Microeconomics (ECON 1013), Pre-Calculus (MATH 1863), and Math for Business (MATH 1853).
When does the ESL Support Program begin?
The ESL Support Program is offered three (3) times per year. Semesters begin in September, January, and May.
What is the cost of the ESL Support Program?
ESL Support Program students are considered full-time academic students at UNB Saint John and as a result, pay the same tuition fees as International academic students.
Please refer to our Fees Page for detailed information about the cost of the ESL Support Program.
Does Saint John College provide accommodations and student services?
Residence accommodation is available to international students who study at Saint John College. For more information about living on campus at UNB Saint John, please visit: UNB Saint John Residence and Conference Services.
How to apply to the ESL Support Program?
To join the ESL Support Program, students must have an acceptance to an undergraduate degree program at UNB Saint John. To apply to UNB Saint John, please click here.
