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.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
(R901)
Program Details
- Program Code: R901
- Credential: George Brown College Certificate
- Duration: Must complete the program within three consecutive academic years.
- Method of Study: Part-time
- Starting Months: January, March, May, July, September, November
- Domestic Tuition: Please see the Courses tab for fee details
- International Tuition: Please see the Courses tab for fee details
- Fall 2026 Delivery: Hybrid
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Not Available | Open: Not Study Permit Eligible |
| Winter 2027 | Not Available | Open: Not Study Permit Eligible |
| Spring 2027 | Not Available | Open: Not Study Permit Eligible |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Through eight progressive levels, a variety of electives and interactive learning opportunities, you will build the fluency, confidence and global readiness you need to thrive personally, academically and professionally.
Program Overview
George Brown’s English as a Second Language (ESL) (Part-Time) Certificate is an accelerated hybrid program to develop your English language skills for personal, professional and academic purposes. With eight levels catering to every skill level, from low beginner to advanced, you’ll find your perfect fit. Each level runs for six weeks and includes a mix of activities that will strengthen your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. You’ll also get to choose from an array of elective courses tailored to your unique needs, for a personalized learning experience.
Full Description
Important Note: This program is currently being delivered in a hybrid format that includes both in-person and online instruction.
George Brown’s English as a Second Language (ESL) (Part-Time) certificate is a non-credit program that will give you the English skills you need to navigate and thrive in today's rapidly changing global landscape.
From low beginner to advanced, we offer eight levels of instruction that will build your confidence as you increase your knowledge of the English language.
Courses you complete in this ESL program count toward our full-time English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. Each ESL course you take reduces the number of EAP courses needed to complete that certificate. Click on the Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities tab on the left side of this page for more details.
Note: These ESL courses do not count as credit toward other George Brown programs.
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Details:
- Experience the best of both worlds with our accelerated hybrid approach, offering a mix of online and in-person instruction.
- Enjoy a dynamic schedule with one week in-person followed by one week of combined in-person and online instruction.
- Independent weekly studies will sharpen your collaboration, time management, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
- Each level is six weeks long and includes 50 hours of enriching teaching and learning.
- Engage in interactive in-person sessions with peers and expert instructors, complemented by online lessons featuring discussion groups, forums and polls.
- Your comprehensive training will help you improve your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
- Fuel your progress through independent studies – watch engaging video lessons, follow narrated PowerPoint presentations, jot down notes and complete language activities
- Tailor your experience with elective courses, including IELTS/CELPIP test preparation, effective communication and conversation skills (additional fees apply).
- Show what you’ve learned through in-class assessments, from quizzes and tests to oral presentations and written assignments.
Note: You will need access to a computer with an Internet access, a working camera, and a microphone.
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Delivery:
- In-person classes are held at our School of ESL and Immigrant Education located at 200 King Street East (Building A, St. James Campus).
- Online classes are delivered live through Zoom – a free and easy-to-use online tool.
- Independent weekly studies are guided by an instructor and completed asynchronously (on your own schedule, within a specific time frame).
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Student Supports:
- Regular feedback and support from your instructor.
- Access to your instructor through email, chat and private messaging.
- Access to customized online learning resources.
- Access to academic resources offered by George Brown’s Tutoring and Learning Centre.
- Free tutoring and peer-led workshops organized by our Student Success Team.
- Peer support and feedback through online discussion boards.
Note: Information related to courses, including length, dates, times, location and delivery mode are subject to change without notice.
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
| Code | Course Name | Course Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 9000 | ESL IA Low Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9003 | ESL IB Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9015 | ESL IC High Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9028 | ESL IIA Low Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9065 | ESL IIB Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9066 | ESL IIC High Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9067 | ESL IIIA Low Advanced | $389.00 |
| ESL 9068 | ESL IIIB Advanced | $389.00 |
| Code | Course Name | Course Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 9064 | Listening and Persuasive Speech | $324.00 |
| ESL 9069 | Advanced Essay Writing | $324.00 |
| ESL 9070 | Pronunciation and Fluency | $324.00 |
| ESL 9073 | Advanced Grammar and Composition Skills | $324.00 |
| ESL 9077 | IELTS Exam Preparation | $299.00 |
| ESL 9078 | Academic Preparation for College/University Studies | $284.00 |
| ESL 9085 | CELPIP – General Test Preparation | $347.00 |
| ESL 9090 | Successful Conversation | $226.00 |
| ESL 9091 | Pathway to Successful Employment | $204.00 |
| ESL 9092 | From Words to Sentences: English Building Blocks | $204.00 |
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for one course in the program starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 and at later dates.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Please see the Courses tab for fee details
International Tuition
Please see the Courses tab for fee details
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
If you are new to the program and it is your first time applying, you must take the level placement test. You will start the program from the level based on the placement test results.
Alternatively, if you have completed an ESL course at George Brown Polytechnic within the last six months, you can apply to start at the next level without having to complete a placement test.
Special Requirements
You must achieve a grade of B (73 per cent) or better to successfully complete each course.
There are two requirements for completing the certificate:
- Complete at least five (5) ESL courses at GBC;
- Complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced).
Example:
- If you take the level placement test and begin with ESL 9000 (ESL IA Low Beginner), you will need to complete all 8 compulsory courses. Therefore, you will need to complete at least five ESL courses and complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced) to achieve the certificate.
- If you take the level placement test and begin with ESL 9066 (ESL IIC High Intermediate), you will need to complete ESL 9066 (ESL IIC High Intermediate), ESL 9067 (IIIA Low Advanced) and ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced) plus 2 elective courses. Therefore, you need to complete at least five ESL courses and complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced)) to achieve the certificate.
Placement Test
Please visit Continuing Education (part–time) ESL Program Placement Test Registration page to sign up for the level placement test.
How to Apply
Domestic and International Students:
To apply for the program, please visit the Courses section and register directly in your respective course(s) by following the instructions provided.
International Students of R901 Program:
You Do Not need to 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 conedesl@georgebrown.ca.
Please Note: Courses in this program are for continuing education purposes only. To earn credits toward a full-time George Brown program, we offer the English for Academic Purposes program:
Visit Our Campus
Take our virtual tour to see our state-of-the-art facilities in downtown Toronto.
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Through eight progressive levels, a variety of electives and interactive learning opportunities, you will build the fluency, confidence and global readiness you need to thrive personally, academically and professionally.
Program Overview
George Brown’s English as a Second Language (ESL) (Part-Time) Certificate is an accelerated hybrid program to develop your English language skills for personal, professional and academic purposes. With eight levels catering to every skill level, from low beginner to advanced, you’ll find your perfect fit. Each level runs for six weeks and includes a mix of activities that will strengthen your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. You’ll also get to choose from an array of elective courses tailored to your unique needs, for a personalized learning experience.
Full Description
Important Note: This program is currently being delivered in a hybrid format that includes both in-person and online instruction.
George Brown’s English as a Second Language (ESL) (Part-Time) certificate is a non-credit program that will give you the English skills you need to navigate and thrive in today's rapidly changing global landscape.
From low beginner to advanced, we offer eight levels of instruction that will build your confidence as you increase your knowledge of the English language.
Courses you complete in this ESL program count toward our full-time English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. Each ESL course you take reduces the number of EAP courses needed to complete that certificate. Click on the Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities tab on the left side of this page for more details.
Note: These ESL courses do not count as credit toward other George Brown programs.
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Details:
- Experience the best of both worlds with our accelerated hybrid approach, offering a mix of online and in-person instruction.
- Enjoy a dynamic schedule with one week in-person followed by one week of combined in-person and online instruction.
- Independent weekly studies will sharpen your collaboration, time management, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
- Each level is six weeks long and includes 50 hours of enriching teaching and learning.
- Engage in interactive in-person sessions with peers and expert instructors, complemented by online lessons featuring discussion groups, forums and polls.
- Your comprehensive training will help you improve your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
- Fuel your progress through independent studies – watch engaging video lessons, follow narrated PowerPoint presentations, jot down notes and complete language activities
- Tailor your experience with elective courses, including IELTS/CELPIP test preparation, effective communication and conversation skills (additional fees apply).
- Show what you’ve learned through in-class assessments, from quizzes and tests to oral presentations and written assignments.
Note: You will need access to a computer with an Internet access, a working camera, and a microphone.
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Delivery:
- In-person classes are held at our School of ESL and Immigrant Education located at 200 King Street East (Building A, St. James Campus).
- Online classes are delivered live through Zoom – a free and easy-to-use online tool.
- Independent weekly studies are guided by an instructor and completed asynchronously (on your own schedule, within a specific time frame).
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Student Supports:
- Regular feedback and support from your instructor.
- Access to your instructor through email, chat and private messaging.
- Access to customized online learning resources.
- Access to academic resources offered by George Brown’s Tutoring and Learning Centre.
- Free tutoring and peer-led workshops organized by our Student Success Team.
- Peer support and feedback through online discussion boards.
Note: Information related to courses, including length, dates, times, location and delivery mode are subject to change without notice.
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
| Code | Course Name | Course Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 9000 | ESL IA Low Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9003 | ESL IB Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9015 | ESL IC High Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9028 | ESL IIA Low Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9065 | ESL IIB Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9066 | ESL IIC High Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9067 | ESL IIIA Low Advanced | $389.00 |
| ESL 9068 | ESL IIIB Advanced | $389.00 |
| Code | Course Name | Course Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 9064 | Listening and Persuasive Speech | $324.00 |
| ESL 9069 | Advanced Essay Writing | $324.00 |
| ESL 9070 | Pronunciation and Fluency | $324.00 |
| ESL 9073 | Advanced Grammar and Composition Skills | $324.00 |
| ESL 9077 | IELTS Exam Preparation | $299.00 |
| ESL 9078 | Academic Preparation for College/University Studies | $284.00 |
| ESL 9085 | CELPIP – General Test Preparation | $347.00 |
| ESL 9090 | Successful Conversation | $226.00 |
| ESL 9091 | Pathway to Successful Employment | $204.00 |
| ESL 9092 | From Words to Sentences: English Building Blocks | $204.00 |
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for one course in the program starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 and at later dates.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Please see the Courses tab for fee details
International Tuition
Please see the Courses tab for fee details
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
If you are new to the program and it is your first time applying, you must take the level placement test. You will start the program from the level based on the placement test results.
Alternatively, if you have completed an ESL course at George Brown Polytechnic within the last six months, you can apply to start at the next level without having to complete a placement test.
Special Requirements
You must achieve a grade of B (73 per cent) or better to successfully complete each course.
There are two requirements for completing the certificate:
- Complete at least five (5) ESL courses at GBC;
- Complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced).
Example:
- If you take the level placement test and begin with ESL 9000 (ESL IA Low Beginner), you will need to complete all 8 compulsory courses. Therefore, you will need to complete at least five ESL courses and complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced) to achieve the certificate.
- If you take the level placement test and begin with ESL 9066 (ESL IIC High Intermediate), you will need to complete ESL 9066 (ESL IIC High Intermediate), ESL 9067 (IIIA Low Advanced) and ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced) plus 2 elective courses. Therefore, you need to complete at least five ESL courses and complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced)) to achieve the certificate.
Placement Test
Please visit Continuing Education (part–time) ESL Program Placement Test Registration page to sign up for the level placement test.
How to Apply
Domestic and International Students:
To apply for the program, please visit the Courses section and register directly in your respective course(s) by following the instructions provided.
International Students of R901 Program:
You Do Not need to 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 conedesl@georgebrown.ca.
Please Note: Courses in this program are for continuing education purposes only. To earn credits toward a full-time George Brown program, we offer the English for Academic Purposes program:
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
English as a Second Language (ESL)
(R901)
Program Details
- Program Code: R901
- Credential: George Brown College Certificate
- Duration: Must complete the program within three consecutive academic years.
- Method of Study: Part-time
- Starting Months: January, March, May, July, September, November
- Domestic Tuition: Please see the Courses tab for fee details
- Spring 2026 Delivery: Hybrid
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2025 | Continuous Open Enrollment | Open: Not Study Permit Eligible |
| Winter 2026 | Continuous Open Enrollment | Open: Not Study Permit Eligible |
| Spring 2026 | Continuous Open Enrollment | Open: Not Study Permit Eligible |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Program Description
Program Overview
George Brown’s English as a Second Language (ESL) (Part-Time) Certificate is an accelerated hybrid program to develop your English language skills for personal, professional and academic purposes. With eight levels catering to every skill level, from low beginner to advanced, you’ll find your perfect fit. Each level runs for six weeks and includes a mix of activities that will strengthen your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. You’ll also get to choose from an array of elective courses tailored to your unique needs, for a personalized learning experience.
Full Description
Important Note: This program is currently being delivered in a hybrid format that includes both in-person and online instruction.
George Brown’s English as a Second Language (ESL) (Part-Time) certificate is a non-credit program that will give you the English skills you need to navigate and thrive in today's rapidly changing global landscape.
From low beginner to advanced, we offer eight levels of instruction that will build your confidence as you increase your knowledge of the English language.
Courses you complete in this ESL program count toward our full-time English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. Each ESL course you take reduces the number of EAP courses needed to complete that certificate. Click on the Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities tab on the left side of this page for more details.
NOTE: These ESL courses do not count as credit toward other George Brown programs.
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Details:
- Experience the best of both worlds with our accelerated hybrid approach, offering a mix of online and in-person instruction.
- Enjoy a dynamic schedule with one week in-person followed by one week of combined in-person and online instruction.
- Independent weekly studies will sharpen your collaboration, time management, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
- Each level is six weeks long and includes 50 hours of enriching teaching and learning.
- Engage in interactive in-person sessions with peers and expert instructors, complemented by online lessons featuring discussion groups, forums and polls.
- Your comprehensive training will help you improve your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
- Fuel your progress through independent studies – watch engaging video lessons, follow narrated PowerPoint presentations, jot down notes and complete language activities
- Tailor your experience with elective courses, including IELTS/CELPIP test preparation, effective communication and conversation skills (additional fees apply).
- Show what you’ve learned through in-class assessments, from quizzes and tests to oral presentations and written assignments.
NOTE: You will need access to a computer with an Internet access, a working camera, and a microphone.
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Delivery:
- In-person classes are held at our School of ESL and Immigrant Education located at 200 King Street East (Building A, St. James Campus).
- Online classes are delivered live through Zoom – a free and easy-to-use online tool.
- Independent weekly studies are guided by an instructor and completed asynchronously (on your own schedule, within a specific time frame).
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Student Supports:
- Regular feedback and support from your instructor.
- Access to your instructor through email, chat and private messaging.
- Access to customized online learning resources.
- Access to academic resources offered by George Brown’s Tutoring and Learning Centre.
- Free tutoring and peer-led workshops organized by our Student Success Team.
- Peer support and feedback through online discussion boards.
Note: Information related to courses, including length, dates, times, location and delivery mode are subject to change without notice.
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
| Code | Course Name | Course Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 9000 | ESL IA Low Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9003 | ESL IB Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9015 | ESL IC High Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9028 | ESL IIA Low Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9065 | ESL IIB Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9066 | ESL IIC High Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9067 | ESL IIIA Low Advanced | $389.00 |
| ESL 9068 | ESL IIIB Advanced | $389.00 |
| Code | Course Name | Course Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 9064 | Listening and Persuasive Speech | $324.00 |
| ESL 9069 | Advanced Essay Writing | $324.00 |
| ESL 9070 | Pronunciation and Fluency | $324.00 |
| ESL 9073 | Advanced Grammar and Composition Skills | $324.00 |
| ESL 9077 | IELTS Exam Preparation | $299.00 |
| ESL 9078 | Academic Preparation for College/University Studies | $284.00 |
| ESL 9085 | CELPIP – General Test Preparation | $347.00 |
| ESL 9090 | Successful Conversation | $226.00 |
| ESL 9091 | Pathway to Successful Employment | $204.00 |
| ESL 9092 | From Words to Sentences: English Building Blocks | $204.00 |
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for one course in the program starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 and at later dates.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Please see the Courses tab for fee details
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
If you are new to the program and it is your first time applying, you must take the level placement test. You will start the program from the level based on the placement test results.
Alternatively, if you have completed an ESL course at George Brown Polytechnic within the last six months, you can apply to start at the next level without having to complete a placement test.
Special Requirements
You must achieve a grade of B (73 per cent) or better to successfully complete each course.
There are two requirements for completing the certificate:
- Complete at least five (5) ESL courses at GBC;
- Complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced).
Example:
- If you take the level placement test and begin with ESL 9000 (ESL IA Low Beginner), you will need to complete all 8 compulsory courses. Therefore, you will need to complete at least five ESL courses and complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced) to achieve the certificate.
- If you take the level placement test and begin with ESL 9066 (ESL IIC High Intermediate), you will need to complete ESL 9066 (ESL IIC High Intermediate), ESL 9067 (IIIA Low Advanced) and ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced) plus 2 elective courses. Therefore, you need to complete at least five ESL courses and complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced)) to achieve the certificate.
Placement Test
Please visit Continuing Education (part–time) ESL Program Placement Test Registration page to sign up for the level placement test.
How to Apply
Domestic and International Students:
To apply for the program, please visit the Courses section and register directly in your respective course(s) by following the instructions provided.
International Students of R901 Program:
You Do Not need to 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 conedesl@georgebrown.ca.
Visit Our Campus
Take our virtual tour to see our state-of-the-art facilities in downtown Toronto.
PLEASE NOTE: Courses in this program are for continuing education purposes only. To earn credits toward a full-time George Brown program, we offer the English for Academic Purposes program:
Program Description
Program Overview
George Brown’s English as a Second Language (ESL) (Part-Time) Certificate is an accelerated hybrid program to develop your English language skills for personal, professional and academic purposes. With eight levels catering to every skill level, from low beginner to advanced, you’ll find your perfect fit. Each level runs for six weeks and includes a mix of activities that will strengthen your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. You’ll also get to choose from an array of elective courses tailored to your unique needs, for a personalized learning experience.
Full Description
Important Note: This program is currently being delivered in a hybrid format that includes both in-person and online instruction.
George Brown’s English as a Second Language (ESL) (Part-Time) certificate is a non-credit program that will give you the English skills you need to navigate and thrive in today's rapidly changing global landscape.
From low beginner to advanced, we offer eight levels of instruction that will build your confidence as you increase your knowledge of the English language.
Courses you complete in this ESL program count toward our full-time English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program. Each ESL course you take reduces the number of EAP courses needed to complete that certificate. Click on the Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities tab on the left side of this page for more details.
NOTE: These ESL courses do not count as credit toward other George Brown programs.
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Details:
- Experience the best of both worlds with our accelerated hybrid approach, offering a mix of online and in-person instruction.
- Enjoy a dynamic schedule with one week in-person followed by one week of combined in-person and online instruction.
- Independent weekly studies will sharpen your collaboration, time management, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
- Each level is six weeks long and includes 50 hours of enriching teaching and learning.
- Engage in interactive in-person sessions with peers and expert instructors, complemented by online lessons featuring discussion groups, forums and polls.
- Your comprehensive training will help you improve your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
- Fuel your progress through independent studies – watch engaging video lessons, follow narrated PowerPoint presentations, jot down notes and complete language activities
- Tailor your experience with elective courses, including IELTS/CELPIP test preparation, effective communication and conversation skills (additional fees apply).
- Show what you’ve learned through in-class assessments, from quizzes and tests to oral presentations and written assignments.
NOTE: You will need access to a computer with an Internet access, a working camera, and a microphone.
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Delivery:
- In-person classes are held at our School of ESL and Immigrant Education located at 200 King Street East (Building A, St. James Campus).
- Online classes are delivered live through Zoom – a free and easy-to-use online tool.
- Independent weekly studies are guided by an instructor and completed asynchronously (on your own schedule, within a specific time frame).
ESL (Part-Time) Certificate Program Student Supports:
- Regular feedback and support from your instructor.
- Access to your instructor through email, chat and private messaging.
- Access to customized online learning resources.
- Access to academic resources offered by George Brown’s Tutoring and Learning Centre.
- Free tutoring and peer-led workshops organized by our Student Success Team.
- Peer support and feedback through online discussion boards.
Note: Information related to courses, including length, dates, times, location and delivery mode are subject to change without notice.
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
| Code | Course Name | Course Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 9000 | ESL IA Low Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9003 | ESL IB Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9015 | ESL IC High Beginner | $389.00 |
| ESL 9028 | ESL IIA Low Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9065 | ESL IIB Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9066 | ESL IIC High Intermediate | $389.00 |
| ESL 9067 | ESL IIIA Low Advanced | $389.00 |
| ESL 9068 | ESL IIIB Advanced | $389.00 |
| Code | Course Name | Course Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ESL 9064 | Listening and Persuasive Speech | $324.00 |
| ESL 9069 | Advanced Essay Writing | $324.00 |
| ESL 9070 | Pronunciation and Fluency | $324.00 |
| ESL 9073 | Advanced Grammar and Composition Skills | $324.00 |
| ESL 9077 | IELTS Exam Preparation | $299.00 |
| ESL 9078 | Academic Preparation for College/University Studies | $284.00 |
| ESL 9085 | CELPIP – General Test Preparation | $347.00 |
| ESL 9090 | Successful Conversation | $226.00 |
| ESL 9091 | Pathway to Successful Employment | $204.00 |
| ESL 9092 | From Words to Sentences: English Building Blocks | $204.00 |
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for one course in the program starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 and at later dates.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Please see the Courses tab for fee details
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
If you are new to the program and it is your first time applying, you must take the level placement test. You will start the program from the level based on the placement test results.
Alternatively, if you have completed an ESL course at George Brown Polytechnic within the last six months, you can apply to start at the next level without having to complete a placement test.
Special Requirements
You must achieve a grade of B (73 per cent) or better to successfully complete each course.
There are two requirements for completing the certificate:
- Complete at least five (5) ESL courses at GBC;
- Complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced).
Example:
- If you take the level placement test and begin with ESL 9000 (ESL IA Low Beginner), you will need to complete all 8 compulsory courses. Therefore, you will need to complete at least five ESL courses and complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced) to achieve the certificate.
- If you take the level placement test and begin with ESL 9066 (ESL IIC High Intermediate), you will need to complete ESL 9066 (ESL IIC High Intermediate), ESL 9067 (IIIA Low Advanced) and ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced) plus 2 elective courses. Therefore, you need to complete at least five ESL courses and complete ESL 9068 (ESL IIIB Advanced)) to achieve the certificate.
Placement Test
Please visit Continuing Education (part–time) ESL Program Placement Test Registration page to sign up for the level placement test.
How to Apply
Domestic and International Students:
To apply for the program, please visit the Courses section and register directly in your respective course(s) by following the instructions provided.
International Students of R901 Program:
You Do Not need to 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 conedesl@georgebrown.ca.
Visit Our Campus
Take our virtual tour to see our state-of-the-art facilities in downtown Toronto.
PLEASE NOTE: Courses in this program are for continuing education purposes only. To earn credits toward a full-time George Brown program, we offer the English for Academic Purposes program:
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Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms