How to Choose the Right English Language Program at ILAC

Two international students holding an ILAC brochure
Choosing the right English language program comes down to your goals, current proficiency level, schedule, flexibility, and learning style. ILAC offers in-person and online English programs. Courses range from General English to University Pathway, supporting personal, academic, and professional goals. 

The International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC) is one of the most highly awarded language schools in the world. We welcome students from 90+ countries every year, and each student arrives with different goals and starting points.

That’s why we offer in-person and online English classes for adults that fit every goal and lifestyle. Whether you’re preparing for university, advancing your career, or improving everyday communication, ILAC has a program for you!  

Ready to learn English? Here’s how to choose your perfect program: 

1. Set Your Goal

Not all English is the same. The English you need for university is different from what you need for business meetings. Choosing the right in-person or online English classes for adults depends on what you’ll do with them.

Ask yourself: What’s my main reason for learning English? 

Academic Career Personal
  • Get into a Canadian university or college
  • Join a course that requires technical discussions/lectures 
  • Write research papers
  • Secure a promotion at work
  • Work for international companies
  • Switch careers 
  • Travel internationally or immigrate 
  • Connect with friends all over the world
  • Enjoy English media without subtitles
General English + University Pathway Program  Business English or English for Professionals 30+  General English + IELTS Preparation or Cambridge English

2. Determine Your Current English Level

An English course is only worthwhile if it’s at the right level for you. If you simply choose a program without determining your language level, you’re wasting time on material that’s either too easy or too hard. Both are a sure way to kill motivation. 

Before applying for a program, test your English skills. ILAC has a free online English test that assesses your listening, writing, and reading skills. It takes 30 minutes to complete, and you get the results instantly! 

Other ways to assess your language level:

Note: The online test results can’t be used as official proof of English proficiency for your ILAC admission.

Don’t worry if you’re not sure about your results or don’t have recent test scores. On your first day at ILAC, you’ll take an official placement test to determine your level:

  • Level 9 or below → Start in General English to build your foundation
  • Level 10 or above → Choose from advanced courses like Business English, University Pathway, or IELTS Preparation

✉️Email [email protected] to take ILAC’s official placement test in advance! 

ILAC students studying together

3. Match Your Goal + English Level to an ILAC Program

ILAC has eight English programs for adults. Here’s what’s available and who they’re best for: 

ILAC Adult English Program Who Is It Best For? Required English Level (ILAC)
General English → Adults who want to improve everyday communication

→ Learners who need to build English skills before taking advanced classes 

None; covers levels 1 to 9
Cambridge English → Individuals preparing for official Cambridge exams (FCE, CAE, CPE)

→ Academic or professional credential seekers

10 to 17
Business English → Professionals looking to improve workplace communication 10 to 17
IELTS Preparation → Individuals planning to study, work, or immigrate to English-speaking countries  10 to 17
University Pathway Program → Students aiming to study in the US or Canadian universities/colleges without IELTS or TOEFL 10 to 17
English for Professionals  → Mature students (30+) seeking professional and personal development None; covers levels 1 to 17
ILAC Nightschool → Adults with daytime commitments  Varies 
KISS Online → Adults in or out of Canada who want to study from home

→ Individuals testing ILAC’s programs before committing to in-person study

→ Students preparing before studying in Canada 

Varies

Discover ILAC Programs in Canada

4. Consider Your Schedule & Flexibility

Choosing the right English language programs for adults is also a matter of matching your availability and lifestyle.

ILAC Nightschool

ILAC Nightschool offers flexible schedules and modalities to help you juggle daily commitments with English classes. 

You can choose between:

  • Part-Time: 10 lessons a week
  • Full-time: 20 lessons a week 

Classes start at 6 p.m.

KISS Online

KISS is one of the best online English classes for adults with limited time who want high-quality instruction and flexible scheduling. Receive the same excellent teaching as ILAC’s Toronto and Vancouver campuses from the comfort of your own home. This program offers various time slots, allowing you to study at times that fit your schedule.

ILAC students discussing English with the teacher in class

5. Choose Your Program Intensity

Beyond schedule flexibility, you need to decide how intensive you want your studies to be. ILAC offers two intensity levels for in-person learning:

  • Intensive Program: 30 lessons a week
  • Power Program: 38 lessons a week (includes Power English courses)

Download the ILAC Brochure

In Summary

  • To find the right English language program, first establish a goal. Are you learning English for academic, professional, or personal reasons? 
  • Take a placement test or review your current skills to choose a program that matches your proficiency.
  • Match your goals with the right ILAC Program:
    • Academic: General English + University Pathway Program
    • Professional: Business English or English for Professionals 30+
    • Personal: General English + IELTS Preparation or Cambridge English
  • Choose full-time, part-time, evening classes, or online learning to fit your lifestyle.
  • Select from intensive or power programs depending on how quickly you want to progress.

Join Us for a Free Demo Lesson

Choosing between ILAC’s in-person and online English classes for adults is a big decision. Let’s make it easier. 

Experience the ILAC difference firsthand in a virtual demo class with students from around the world. Our experienced instructors will guide you through engaging activities, giving you a taste of how our programs work.

Still in doubt? Contact us with your questions! We’re here to help you find the program that fits your goals and lifestyle.

FAQs

Online English courses can be effective for adults, but they’re not for everyone. While they offer a high level of flexibility, accessibility, and learning materials, you need strong motivation and self-regulation to be successful.

Consistent practice and interaction are essential for language learners. Opt for courses like ILAC’s KISS that provide real-life activities and cultural exchanges for effective online learning.

The best way to learn English as an adult is a combination of formal instruction and real-world interaction. Taking English classes in an international college like ILAC is a good example. In class, you learn grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, and then immediately apply them in conversations, fostering immersion and confidence in a safe and supportive environment.

Yes, you can make real progress in English in three months, especially if you study full-time and practice regularly. However, every student starts at a different level and learns at a different pace, so actual results vary.

At ILAC, each level takes four weeks to complete. Three months of consistent study can help you advance one or two levels and gain noticeable confidence in communication. You’re free to take as much time as you need to master each level and build your English skills.

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