niagaracollege.ca/english/program/esl-online/
English as a Second Language (ESL) Online
Unlock your full potential with this flexible and interactive program, designed to help you build confidence, master essential English skills, and thrive in real-world settings, all from the comfort of your home.
Overview
Level Duration: 7 weeks
Are you eager to immerse yourself in Canadian culture while learning English in a supportive, collaborative and dynamic environment, alongside a diverse, global student community? As an ESL Online graduate, you will gain a deep understanding of the English language and develop practical, professional, and real-life communication skills.
We welcome applicants who are International, Québec residents, Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents. Please note this program is not Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) eligible.
Program Highlights
• Participate in live, interactive video classes across 10 levels, each spanning seven weeks, with 15 hours of weekly cameras-on, synchronous classes.
• Learn from qualified Canadian instructors, certified by Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) Ontario and TESL Canada.
• Engage in learning activities that build speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills and test-taking skills at the higher levels
• Enjoy the flexibility to apply and transition to our in-person English for Academic Preparation (EAP) program at any time.
• Receive real-time feedback on your performance to help you strengthen key areas and improve.
• Assess your progress through exit tests every 7 weeks, with the opportunity to move up one or more levels as your proficiency improves.
• Receive a Certificate of Achievement after successfully completing Level 10.
• Join the NC Community Online, including seminars, social events, and more.
• Earn a Certificate of Achievement after successfully completing Level 10.
Online NC Journey
Join any session to start advancing through your English learning levels at your own pace!
2026 Session Dates
January 12 - February 27
March 9 - April 24
May 11 - June 26
July 6 - August 21
September 9 - October 23
November 2 - December 18
2027 Session Dates
January 11 - February 26
March 8 - April 23
May 10 - May 25
July 5 - August 20
September 8 - October 22
November 1 - December 17
*Orientation will be held a few days in advance of the session start date
Computer/Technology Requirements
• A desktop or laptop running on an updated Microsoft Windows operating system (Windows 11 recommended).
• Minimum 256GB SSD storage and 8 GB memory (note that 16 GB memory is strongly recommended)
• An integrated or peripheral video camera, microphone and speaker system
• Reliable internet connectivity with Broadband capabilities. A minimum download speed of 10 – 50 Mbps is recommended.
Virtually Engage
with Professors Live
Monday to Friday 18:30 – 21:30*
(*Eastern Standard Time - Niagara time)
Attendance in live video classes is mandatory with cameras ON!
Sample Schedule
18:30 19:30 20:30 21:30
Skills (Speaking, Listening, Writing & Reading combined)
(Speaking, Listening, Writing & Reading combined)
ESL Online to Postsecondary Scholarship
$2,500-$5,000
Open to all students who successfully complete Level 10 of ESL Online and transition to an in-person academic program at Niagara College.
*No form submission is required to receive this bursary/scholarship. All actively enrolled eligible students after Day 10 of term start will receive the bursary onto their student account.
Fee
$1,450 CAD (per 7-week session)
Includes:
•Assessments
•Materials
These bursary/scholarship opportunities are available for 2026. For more information on bursaries and scholarships, please visit: international.niagaracollege.ca/scholarships
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Apply now international.niagaracollege.ca/applynow
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Receive an email from Niagara College with an:
• Offer of Acceptance
• Invoice indicating required deposit
If using your own English test results for level placement, please submit to international@niagaracollege.ca after receiving your offer email.
Secure your seat in the program by confirming your admission using your MyNC Portal.
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Pay the amount indicated on your invoice by the due date outlined using Niagara College’s Tuition Portal to confirm your acceptance:
international.niagaracollege.ca/tuition-payment
Take the Envoy program placement test if you will not be submitting your own English testing.
• Test results will be used to place you in the Level you will study for 7 weeks.
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Receive information about Orientation and the first day of class.
• In your classes, you will receive links to the digital resources you will use in your lessons.
