George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
General Arts and Science – English for Academic Purposes
(for International Students) (R115)
Program Details
- Program Code: R115
- Credential: Ontario College Certificate
- Duration: 3 semesters Levels 1-9 depending on initial placement test.
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: January, March, May, July, September, October
- Domestic Tuition: Not Applicable
- International Tuition: $3,430.00 * †
- Spring 2026 Delivery: Semester 1, 3: Not Available; Semester 2: Choice
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2025 | Not Available | Closed |
| Winter 2026 | Not Available | Suspended |
| Spring 2026 | Not Available | Suspended |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Program Description
Program Overview
George Brown Polytechnic’s English for Academic Purposes for International Students (EAP) (R115) will help you level up your English language skills as an international student. We’ll prepare you for your exciting journey into post-secondary study and future careers. Our EAP program will not only help you improve your English language skills but will help open doors to a vibrant student life that includes exciting co- and extracurricular events and workshops.
Full Description
George Brown Polytechnic’s English for Academic Purposes for International Students (EAP) (R115) program is your gateway to mastering the English language. We attract students from all over the world, creating a diverse, enriching learning environment.
Get ready to boost your communication skills in a variety of learning areas, including:
- listening
- speaking
- reading
- writing
- vocabulary
- grammar
Our certified teachers will guide you through interactive lessons, both in-person and online. You’ll also have the opportunity to join new immigrants throughout your classes and student life activities.
Choose Your Own EAP Pathway
As you reach Level 7 or Level 8, you can take one of four routes:
- Continue in the post-secondary stream of the EAP program
- Pursue Level 7 or Level 8 English for Business Studies
- Pursue Level 7 or Level 8 English for Hospitality Studies
- Pursue Level 7 or Level 8 English for Early Childhood Education
*Please keep in mind that space is limited, so we can’t guarantee you’ll get your first-choice stream.
As part of our EAP program, you can also opt for selective courses tailored to develop specific communication skills, critical thinking abilities, digital expertise, and academic know-how to prepare you for your future college studies.
Program Dates and Duration
Each 16-week semester covers two levels. Your official English exam score (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo) will determine your starting level. Applicants must meet a minimum required test score and minimum starting level to enroll into the program. The minimum required test score and minimum starting EAP level depend on the applicant's selected session start date.
Classes take place Monday–Friday from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Academic Year: 2025-2026
| Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|
| Sep 2, 2025 | Oct 24, 2025 |
| Oct 27, 2025 | Dec 19, 2025 |
| Jan 5, 2026 | Feb 27, 2026 |
| Mar 2, 2026 | Apr 24, 2026 |
| May 4, 2026 | Jun 26, 2026 |
| June 29, 2026 | Aug 21, 2026 |
Certification
When you finish Level 8 or 9 and complete at least two EAP levels at George Brown, you'll earn an Ontario College Certificate. If you complete only level 8 or level 9, you'll receive a George Brown Polytechnic Certificate.
Level 8 graduates are exempt from the English admissions test for most post-secondary programs at George Brown Polytechnic and many other Ontario colleges. Level 9 graduates meet the English admission requirements for certain George Brown Polytechnic degree programs and graduate certificate programs with co-op or field education placements.
Note: Double-check each program’s requirements for any mandatory admission testing details.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Completion of Level 8 – Meets the English language requirement for most certificate and diploma programs at George Brown Polytechnic.
Completion of Level 9 – Will prepare you with the study, research and essay-writing skills required for diploma, postgraduate and degree-level programs.
Please note: Mandatory admission testing, which includes English, is required for some programs. Check program requirements.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
To determine which level each student will start the program in, students either take a level placement test at George Brown, or submit an official, valid IELTS (Academic), TOEFL (iBT) or Duolingo score report before session start. Students taking the EAP level placement test will be notified of the test date and time by the School of ESL and Immigrant Education or the International Centre.
Each level is taught over a span of eight weeks. Students who enroll in a full semester would be capable of completing two levels per semester.
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ESL 1131 | English for Academic Purposes 1 |
| ESL 1132 | English for Academic Purposes 2 |
| ESL 1133 | English for Academic Purposes 3 |
| ESL 1134 | English for Academic Purposes 4 |
| ESL 1135 | English for Academic Purposes 5 |
| ESL 1136 | English for Academic Purposes 6 |
| ESL 1137 | English for Academic Purposes 7 |
| ESL 1138 | English for Academic Purposes 8 |
| ESL 1139 | English for Academic Purposes 9 |
Note: Choice of online or in-person classes.
The EAP Level 1 course will be offered in-person (on campus) ONLY at the School of ESL at 200 King Street East, Toronto, Ontario. If you are placed into the EAP Level 1 course, please plan and prepare accordingly.
Course Outline URL
Students who successfully complete EAP Level 8 at George Brown Polytechnic are deemed to have met the English language requirements for admission to some diploma and certificate programs at 16 other Ontario colleges. Please check the program requirements or contact the School of ESL for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate competently at a level required for postsecondary studies, showing flexibility and clarity of thought and expression.
- Communicate competently and flexibly, in order to interact culturally appropriately, in a variety of workplace, post-secondary and/or societal environments.
- Conduct research and write essays/papers/reports according to academic conventions at a level required by colleges, universities, and/or the workplace.
- Develop thorough general knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects, and insight into both self and society.
- Develop flexibility and clarity of both thought and expression in order to develop communications competence to a level required by business and industry.
- Understand and utilize critical-thinking processes and problem-solving techniques.
- Examine and evaluate various aspects of our changing society to assist in developing a sense of personal and social responsibility as a citizen in society.
- Employ basic vocational skills drawn from the areas of the humanities, social and behavioural sciences or vocational studies (business, technology).
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Not Applicable
International Tuition
$3,430.00 * †
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the estimated fees for one level starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice.
† Additional Cost
ID – $14.30 one-time charge
Alumni – $33.81 one-time charge
Convocation - $67.85 one-time charge
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is not eligible for OSAP funding.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Admission Requirements
- applicants must provide a valid passport
- applicants must be 18 years of age or older at the start of classes and complete a placement test
New: Please note that starting in May 2025, The College's EAP level placement test will no longer be offered. Due to a policy change, R115 program applicants are now required to submit an English proficiency test result (IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Duolingo) prior to enrolling in the program. Applicants must also meet a minimum required test score and minimum starting level to enroll into the program. The minimum required test score and minimum starting EAP level are dependent on the applicant's selected session start date.
If you are applying for George Brown’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program, as a conditional pathway to a post-secondary program please see below for further information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Conditional Admission Through GBC's EAP Program
Applicants from eligible countries who do not meet George Brown’s English language requirements may be offered conditional admission to a post-secondary program through George Brown’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. Depending on the option you have chosen for EAP level placement you may need to reapply for your diploma/degree/postgraduate program.
Important information about EAP as a conditional pathway to a post-secondary program
Important: If you are applying for the George Brown Polytechnic English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program as a conditional pathway to a post-secondary program, please note the following:
- You must meet eligibility requirements for the diploma/degree/postgraduate program you are applying for and submit supporting documents required. Please see the list of supporting documents required.
- We will review your application and if you are eligible, we will issue you a conditional letter of acceptance for both the EAP and the post-secondary program. This letter will assist you in applying for a Study Permit.
- If you did not submit an IELTS or TOEFL or Duolingo score, you will be required to take the EAP level placement test after you arrive at George Brown Polytechnic.
- The results of the placement test will reflect your language ability and determine your starting level in the EAP program.
- Once you know your EAP level, you will be required to contact your admissions officer at the International Centre to re-initiate your post-secondary program application because the date of your post-secondary program may have changed due to your EAP placement test result.
- When you are finally accepted to the post-secondary program at this second stage, depending on availability, your post-secondary seat will be secure.
In all cases, final admission will be subject to diploma/degree/postgraduate program availability at the time of completion of EAP requirements.
Placement Test
Applicants will be placed into an EAP level before session start based on a TOEFL (iBT), IELTS (Academic), or Duolingo score with the minimum Writing and Speaking score requirements shown below. The minimum required test score and minimum starting EAP level are dependent on the applicant's selected session start date.
| EAP STARTING LEVEL* | *NEW* Duolingo Entry Requirements | IELTS: ENTRY Requirements | TOEFL: ENTRY Requirements | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | Production Score | Overall | Writing & Speaking | Overall | Speaking | Writing | |
| 9 | 115-120 | 95-100 | 6 | 6.5 | 80–91 | 22 | 22 |
| 8 | 105-110 | 85-90 | 5.5 | 6 | 62–79 | 20 | 20 |
| 7 | 95-100 | 75-80 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 50–61 | 18 | 18 |
| 6 | 85-90 | 65-70 | 5 | 5 | 40–49 | 15 | 14 |
| 5 | 75-80 | 55-60 | 4–4.5 | 4.5 | 31–39 | 13 | 12 |
* 2-year test validation maximum.
You will be placed in the EAP starting level that corresponds to your lowest score in all test sections. For students interested in taking the IELTS test in Toronto, the George Brown Polytechnic official IELTS test centre provides a complete IELTS testing service. For more information, please visit the IELTS Testing service site.
George Brown Polytechnic Admissions Officers reserve the right to require TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo results for EAP level placement on all EAP applications.
Current or returning EAP students who suspend their studies for more than six consecutive eight-week sessions must retake the EAP level placement test or submit a valid IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo score in order to be placed back into the program.
As of the March 4–April 26, 2024 session and beyond, the School of ESL will no longer accept the Duolingo (DET) score from *current EAP (R105/R115) program students who seek to skip a language level or be considered for placement into a different EAP level. Current students will still be able to submit IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT scores for consideration into a different EAP level; however, these scores will not be accepted for advancing to the next EAP program level if a student has received a failing grade in their current level.
*Current students are those enrolled in the presently ongoing EAP session or those who have studied in the EAP program within the past two years as of the start date of the next available EAP session.
For more information, please contact esl@georgebrown.ca.
Note: The Educational Testing Service (ETS) has rolled out a new global service to allow students to take the TOEFL iBT exams at home. We will accept this at-home test at the same score levels as the regular test. The new at-home service is nearly global in that it is available to students worldwide with the exception of those in Mainland China and Iran.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Contact Us
For more information about George Brown Polytechnic, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance at 1-800-265-2002.
Call the English for Academic Purposes office at 416-415-5000, ext. 4826 or email esl@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Take our virtual tour to see our state-of-the-art facilities in downtown Toronto.
Program Description
Program Overview
George Brown Polytechnic’s English for Academic Purposes for International Students (EAP) (R115) will help you level up your English language skills as an international student. We’ll prepare you for your exciting journey into post-secondary study and future careers. Our EAP program will not only help you improve your English language skills but will help open doors to a vibrant student life that includes exciting co- and extracurricular events and workshops.
Full Description
George Brown Polytechnic’s English for Academic Purposes for International Students (EAP) (R115) program is your gateway to mastering the English language. We attract students from all over the world, creating a diverse, enriching learning environment.
Get ready to boost your communication skills in a variety of learning areas, including:
- listening
- speaking
- reading
- writing
- vocabulary
- grammar
Our certified teachers will guide you through interactive lessons, both in-person and online. You’ll also have the opportunity to join new immigrants throughout your classes and student life activities.
Choose Your Own EAP Pathway
As you reach Level 7 or Level 8, you can take one of four routes:
- Continue in the post-secondary stream of the EAP program
- Pursue Level 7 or Level 8 English for Business Studies
- Pursue Level 7 or Level 8 English for Hospitality Studies
- Pursue Level 7 or Level 8 English for Early Childhood Education
*Please keep in mind that space is limited, so we can’t guarantee you’ll get your first-choice stream.
As part of our EAP program, you can also opt for selective courses tailored to develop specific communication skills, critical thinking abilities, digital expertise, and academic know-how to prepare you for your future college studies.
Program Dates and Duration
Each 16-week semester covers two levels. Your official English exam score (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo) will determine your starting level. Applicants must meet a minimum required test score and minimum starting level to enroll into the program. The minimum required test score and minimum starting EAP level depend on the applicant's selected session start date.
Classes take place Monday–Friday from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Academic Year: 2025-2026
| Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|
| Sep 2, 2025 | Oct 24, 2025 |
| Oct 27, 2025 | Dec 19, 2025 |
| Jan 5, 2026 | Feb 27, 2026 |
| Mar 2, 2026 | Apr 24, 2026 |
| May 4, 2026 | Jun 26, 2026 |
| June 29, 2026 | Aug 21, 2026 |
Certification
When you finish Level 8 or 9 and complete at least two EAP levels at George Brown, you'll earn an Ontario College Certificate. If you complete only level 8 or level 9, you'll receive a George Brown Polytechnic Certificate.
Level 8 graduates are exempt from the English admissions test for most post-secondary programs at George Brown Polytechnic and many other Ontario colleges. Level 9 graduates meet the English admission requirements for certain George Brown Polytechnic degree programs and graduate certificate programs with co-op or field education placements.
Note: Double-check each program’s requirements for any mandatory admission testing details.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Completion of Level 8 – Meets the English language requirement for most certificate and diploma programs at George Brown Polytechnic.
Completion of Level 9 – Will prepare you with the study, research and essay-writing skills required for diploma, postgraduate and degree-level programs.
Please note: Mandatory admission testing, which includes English, is required for some programs. Check program requirements.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
To determine which level each student will start the program in, students either take a level placement test at George Brown, or submit an official, valid IELTS (Academic), TOEFL (iBT) or Duolingo score report before session start. Students taking the EAP level placement test will be notified of the test date and time by the School of ESL and Immigrant Education or the International Centre.
Each level is taught over a span of eight weeks. Students who enroll in a full semester would be capable of completing two levels per semester.
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ESL 1131 | English for Academic Purposes 1 |
| ESL 1132 | English for Academic Purposes 2 |
| ESL 1133 | English for Academic Purposes 3 |
| ESL 1134 | English for Academic Purposes 4 |
| ESL 1135 | English for Academic Purposes 5 |
| ESL 1136 | English for Academic Purposes 6 |
| ESL 1137 | English for Academic Purposes 7 |
| ESL 1138 | English for Academic Purposes 8 |
| ESL 1139 | English for Academic Purposes 9 |
Note: Choice of online or in-person classes.
The EAP Level 1 course will be offered in-person (on campus) ONLY at the School of ESL at 200 King Street East, Toronto, Ontario. If you are placed into the EAP Level 1 course, please plan and prepare accordingly.
Course Outline URL
Students who successfully complete EAP Level 8 at George Brown Polytechnic are deemed to have met the English language requirements for admission to some diploma and certificate programs at 16 other Ontario colleges. Please check the program requirements or contact the School of ESL for more information.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Not Applicable
International Tuition
$3,430.00 * †
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the estimated fees for one level starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice.
† Additional Cost
ID – $14.30 one-time charge
Alumni – $33.81 one-time charge
Convocation - $67.85 one-time charge
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is not eligible for OSAP funding.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Admission Requirements
- applicants must provide a valid passport
- applicants must be 18 years of age or older at the start of classes and complete a placement test
New: Please note that starting in May 2025, The College's EAP level placement test will no longer be offered. Due to a policy change, R115 program applicants are now required to submit an English proficiency test result (IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Duolingo) prior to enrolling in the program. Applicants must also meet a minimum required test score and minimum starting level to enroll into the program. The minimum required test score and minimum starting EAP level are dependent on the applicant's selected session start date.
If you are applying for George Brown’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program, as a conditional pathway to a post-secondary program please see below for further information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Conditional Admission Through GBC's EAP Program
Applicants from eligible countries who do not meet George Brown’s English language requirements may be offered conditional admission to a post-secondary program through George Brown’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. Depending on the option you have chosen for EAP level placement you may need to reapply for your diploma/degree/postgraduate program.
Important information about EAP as a conditional pathway to a post-secondary program
Important: If you are applying for the George Brown Polytechnic English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program as a conditional pathway to a post-secondary program, please note the following:
- You must meet eligibility requirements for the diploma/degree/postgraduate program you are applying for and submit supporting documents required. Please see the list of supporting documents required.
- We will review your application and if you are eligible, we will issue you a conditional letter of acceptance for both the EAP and the post-secondary program. This letter will assist you in applying for a Study Permit.
- If you did not submit an IELTS or TOEFL or Duolingo score, you will be required to take the EAP level placement test after you arrive at George Brown Polytechnic.
- The results of the placement test will reflect your language ability and determine your starting level in the EAP program.
- Once you know your EAP level, you will be required to contact your admissions officer at the International Centre to re-initiate your post-secondary program application because the date of your post-secondary program may have changed due to your EAP placement test result.
- When you are finally accepted to the post-secondary program at this second stage, depending on availability, your post-secondary seat will be secure.
In all cases, final admission will be subject to diploma/degree/postgraduate program availability at the time of completion of EAP requirements.
Placement Test
Applicants will be placed into an EAP level before session start based on a TOEFL (iBT), IELTS (Academic), or Duolingo score with the minimum Writing and Speaking score requirements shown below. The minimum required test score and minimum starting EAP level are dependent on the applicant's selected session start date.
| EAP STARTING LEVEL* | *NEW* Duolingo Entry Requirements | IELTS: ENTRY Requirements | TOEFL: ENTRY Requirements | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | Production Score | Overall | Writing & Speaking | Overall | Speaking | Writing | |
| 9 | 115-120 | 95-100 | 6 | 6.5 | 80–91 | 22 | 22 |
| 8 | 105-110 | 85-90 | 5.5 | 6 | 62–79 | 20 | 20 |
| 7 | 95-100 | 75-80 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 50–61 | 18 | 18 |
| 6 | 85-90 | 65-70 | 5 | 5 | 40–49 | 15 | 14 |
| 5 | 75-80 | 55-60 | 4–4.5 | 4.5 | 31–39 | 13 | 12 |
* 2-year test validation maximum.
You will be placed in the EAP starting level that corresponds to your lowest score in all test sections. For students interested in taking the IELTS test in Toronto, the George Brown Polytechnic official IELTS test centre provides a complete IELTS testing service. For more information, please visit the IELTS Testing service site.
George Brown Polytechnic Admissions Officers reserve the right to require TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo results for EAP level placement on all EAP applications.
Current or returning EAP students who suspend their studies for more than six consecutive eight-week sessions must retake the EAP level placement test or submit a valid IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo score in order to be placed back into the program.
As of the March 4–April 26, 2024 session and beyond, the School of ESL will no longer accept the Duolingo (DET) score from *current EAP (R105/R115) program students who seek to skip a language level or be considered for placement into a different EAP level. Current students will still be able to submit IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT scores for consideration into a different EAP level; however, these scores will not be accepted for advancing to the next EAP program level if a student has received a failing grade in their current level.
*Current students are those enrolled in the presently ongoing EAP session or those who have studied in the EAP program within the past two years as of the start date of the next available EAP session.
For more information, please contact esl@georgebrown.ca.
Note: The Educational Testing Service (ETS) has rolled out a new global service to allow students to take the TOEFL iBT exams at home. We will accept this at-home test at the same score levels as the regular test. The new at-home service is nearly global in that it is available to students worldwide with the exception of those in Mainland China and Iran.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate competently at a level required for postsecondary studies, showing flexibility and clarity of thought and expression.
- Communicate competently and flexibly, in order to interact culturally appropriately, in a variety of workplace, post-secondary and/or societal environments.
- Conduct research and write essays/papers/reports according to academic conventions at a level required by colleges, universities, and/or the workplace.
- Develop thorough general knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects, and insight into both self and society.
- Develop flexibility and clarity of both thought and expression in order to develop communications competence to a level required by business and industry.
- Understand and utilize critical-thinking processes and problem-solving techniques.
- Examine and evaluate various aspects of our changing society to assist in developing a sense of personal and social responsibility as a citizen in society.
- Employ basic vocational skills drawn from the areas of the humanities, social and behavioural sciences or vocational studies (business, technology).
Contact Us
For more information about George Brown Polytechnic, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance at 1-800-265-2002.
Call the English for Academic Purposes office at 416-415-5000, ext. 4826 or email esl@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Take our virtual tour to see our state-of-the-art facilities in downtown Toronto.
Visit St. James Campus
Book campus tourVisit St. James Campus
Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms