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English courses in Vancouver

Study English in Vancouver, one of Canada’s most unique cities, with the help of a team with 30+ years’ experience assisting students.

English courses in Vancouver
Vancouver
5 / -2
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average Google rating for our advice and support services across all our offices

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years of experience supporting students around the world

97%

of our students recommend ESL as a partner for organising language travel 

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ESL offices across Europe

Study English in Vancouver: a true blend of nature and city life

4.6
1110 reviews

Vancouver offers something rare: a city where you can be learning English in a classroom in the morning and be hiking a mountain by the afternoon. This Pacific Coast gem has a multicultural spirit that makes everyone feel at home. Vancouver locals are famously friendly, and the city is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable. With mild weather year-round and adventure always within reach, Vancouver turns studying English into a lifestyle. 

  • Explore diverse neighbourhoods, from trendy Kitsilano's beach culture to downtown's urban buzz and historic Gastown's charm

  • Study options from 1-week intensive courses to full academic year programmes

  • Expert support from a language learning organisation with 30+ years of experience

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Find your perfect English language school in Vancouver

All ages
Adults (Over 16)
Juniors (8 - 17)

Schools for all ages

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Kaplan International - Academic Year Abroad

Vancouver, Canada
4.6 Excellent (23 reviews)
Junior school

Summer Camp on UBC's Vancouver Campus (9-17)

Vancouver, Canada
4.4 Great (5 reviews)

Find your ideal English course, whatever your goals

From exam preparation for IELTS or TOEFL to conversational fluency and cultural immersion, adapt your Vancouver English course to your goals—whether that's acing a test, advancing your career, or just meeting new people from around the world.

General English

Whether you’re looking to build a foundation for your new language, improve your current skills, or just looking for a fun, educational holiday, our general programme is for you! Have lessons throughout the week and spend your weekends and evenings doing fun activities and excursions to get an appreciation of your new destination. 

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Beginner - Advanced

Intensive Courses

Our intensive course is based on the same model as the standard course, but at a faster pace and delivered with more depth to allow students to make faster progress.

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Beginner - Advanced

Exam preparation

If you’re looking to transform your language skills into a marketable qualification, there’s no better option than a language certificate. Our Exam Preparation courses will give you dedicated lessons alongside tried and tested exam techniques to make sure you get the grade you need to get your dream job or get into your dream university.

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Depends on chosen exam

  • Exams offered: IELTS

Business English

Learn to work and thrive in an international company through our Business English course. Get dedicated industry vocabulary, interview and CV making skills, Networking alongside international peers, and everything else you need to function in the globalised modern world.

Key Information

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 18

  • Class size: 6-10

  • Entry level: Intermediate - Advanced

Junior & Teen Programmes

Younger learners soak up knowledge like a sponge when you combine learning with fun activities and excursions. Our summer camps offer children engaging language lessons in the morning, alongside fun activities in the afternoon and at weekends. Each of our camps also has accommodation and meal options, alongside 24/7 supervision, so you can rest easy knowing we’re handling everything!

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 1+ weeks

  • Minimum age: 8

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Beginner - Advanced

Long-term Gap Programmes

Our long-term programmes offer you a way to go beyond the standard study abroad experience and will allow you to make a new life in Vancouver. Whether you choose to specialise your lessons towards a goal like exam preparation or professional skills through an Academic Year Abroad, or just extend your courses through a Gap Year, you’ll stop being a student and start being a local!

Key Information 

  • Course duration: 2+ months

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: Beginner - Advanced

Academic Year Abroad - Exam preparation

Once you have a B1 level in your chosen language, you can continue your Academic Year with a focus on exam preparation. This course is designed to give you the necessary assistance and coaching to help you ace the accredited language exam of your choice, and will help you secure your spot in a prestigious university. Alongside university campus visits, expert guest speakers, and unique access to our university partners, this programme is the perfect way to secure your academic future!

Key information

  • Course duration: 2+ months

  • Minimum age: 16

  • Class size: 12-15

  • Entry level: B1 level - Advanced

Accreditations and memberships

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Living and learning in Vancouver: Canada’s Pacific gateway

Vancouver offers a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. You’ll study alongside mountain views, cycle to class along the seawall, or grab a coffee in a vibrant neighbourhood spot. The city's multicultural atmosphere means you'll find familiar flavours from home alongside new culinary adventures. The quality of life is top-notch: mild winters, outdoor recreation, and a welcoming student community await.

Skytrain at Vancouver

How transport works while studying abroad in Vancouver

Vancouver's public transit system, TransLink, connects the city through SkyTrain rapid transit, buses, and SeaBus ferries. Students benefit from discounted monthly passes (Compass Card) covering all zones. The SkyTrain is particularly convenient, linking downtown to UBC, Surrey, and Richmond in under 30 minutes. Cycling is popular year-round thanks to extensive bike lanes and mild weather. Download the TransLink app for real-time schedules and trip planning.

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Accommodation for English courses in Vancouver

There are lots of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. If you want to immerse yourself in Canadian culture and practice your English daily, choose a host family who'll share local insights and home-cooked meals. For a more independent, international student experience, our student residences provide modern facilities, social activities, and your choice of private or shared rooms. Whatever your priorities, our expert accommodation team will help you find the perfect home away from home in Vancouver.

Canoeing in Fraser River in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

City attractions

Vancouver's stunning setting offers endless exploration beyond lectures. Walk or cycle the scenic Seawall around Stanley Park, hit the slopes at nearby Grouse Mountain or Cypress, or relax on Kitsilano Beach during summer. Granville Island's public market buzzes with fresh food and local crafts, while Gaston's cobblestone streets showcase the city's history. Enjoy free museum days, affordable theatre tickets, and festival seasons celebrating everything from film to folk music. The surrounding wilderness—hiking trails, skiing, and weekend trips to Whistler—provides the perfect study break. 

Choose the best neighbourhood in Vancouver for you

Downtown

Vancouver's vibrant core with shopping, dining, entertainment, and waterfront access. Walking distance or immediate transit to everywhere.

South Cambie

Chilled area near Queen Elizabeth Park with local cafes and shops: 15 minutes from the city centre.

Kitsilano

Laid-back area near English Bay with yoga studios and ocean views: 20 minutes from the city centre.

Book your English course with ESL to get expert assistance at no extra cost

Our expert team is here to help you find your ideal English school in Vancouver, sort out visa paperwork, secure accommodation, and ensure you arrive on Canada's West Coast with everything in order.

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Best Agency in Europe: as voted by ST Star time and time again!

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We have over 30 years of experience, starting our story as a small Swiss language school, and now one of the top language travel agencies in Europe

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Our services are completely free, and if you find your programme cheaper elsewhere, we’ll refund you the difference. 

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Our agency status has been accredited by the most prestigious organisations in the language travel industry, including ICEF, WYSE, IALC, ALTO, and many more!

Getting your visa for an English course in Vancouver

For English study programmes under six months, EU passport holders need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). EU passport holders planning to study in Vancouver for longer than six months will need a Canadian study permit. The application process typically takes 4-8 weeks, and you'll need an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and proof of financial support. You don't need a separate visa—the study permit authorises both entry and study in Canada.

Contact our team for personalised guidance on your study permit application and to ensure you have everything needed for a smooth arrival and stay in Vancouver.

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The best price, or your money back!

If you find your programme somewhere else for a lower price, we’ll refund you the difference!

Worried that agencies are too expensive?

Our expert assistance comes at no extra cost!
 

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Too many destinations to choose from?

Contact our team of experts, and we’ll find out more about you to pair you with the perfect school that matches your preferences, budget, and language goals.
 

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