Langara English for Academic Purposes (LEAP)

March 2025 Update: 
 

LEAP is currently undergoing a program restructure, following the results of our 2023-24 Quality Assurance Process Audit.

While we are in the process of finalizing the details and transitioning the program to this exciting new structure, the program will not be offering any new student intakes in July 2025 or November 2025 and therefore will not be accepting new applications for these sessions. 

Please check this page regularly for updates to the upcoming LEAP program dates. 

We are committed to providing all LEAP students with exceptional programming and a dynamic, student-success focused learning experience. We anticipate being able to provide more information regarding the launch of the new structure in April 2025 and we look forward to welcoming you into our new LEAP program soon. 

If you have any questions, please contact us at leap@langara.ca   

Langara English for Academic Purposes (LEAP) is an intensive ESL program designed to prepare students whose first language is not English for full-time study at English language universities and colleges.

Learn English - LEAP Program Highlights

• Eight levels of ESL training, from upper beginner to advanced*
• Seven-week sessions
• 20 hours of instruction and learning per week
• Classes scheduled Monday to Friday (between 8:30am - 12:20pm or 12:30 - 4:20pm depending on the level)
• Approximately two to four hours of homework per day
• Integrated skills (develop all four skills together)
• Academic topics
• Graduation from LEAP 8 leads to direct admission to university studies at Langara

*Before the first day of the program, students take a placement test to determine their level

LEAP Program Information

Langara’s ESL programming uses an integrated approach to language learning. Rather than teach skills in isolation we use a holistic methodology, combining speaking, listening, reading, and writing and focusing on a variety of relevant and interesting topics. Using a content-based curriculum, we engage students in activities that require the use of a variety of strategies to encourage authentic communication. This creates a dynamic, student-centred learning environment in which students acquire language in a natural and meaningful way. Gradually, students learn to approach classroom content the same way as Canadian students whose first language is English.

Projects and Presentations are an important part of each LEAP level as they encourage students to work creatively and cooperatively. In addition, projects and presentations integrate skills that students will need in university and college classrooms.

Apply now

• International students
• Domestic students (Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada)

Watch the LEAP Graduation Reception highlights below and join us in congratulating our LEAP 2022 graduates! More videos from past celebrations are in our video gallery.

LEAP is accredited by Languages Canada. 

• Six intakes each year
• Seven-week sessions of intensive English learning
• 140 hours of instruction each session
• 20 hours of class per week
• Classes scheduled Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8:30 am–4:30 pm (Pacific Standard Time)
• Depending on your level, your class schedule will either be 8:30am - 12:20pm or 12:30 - 4:20pm

Attendance is mandatory in the LEAP program and students must attend all seven weeks of their course. Students who cannot start their course on the first day of the program should review their refund and deferral options and email leap@langara.ca  for assistance.  

Placement Test

In advance of their course, new students will take a remote placement test to determine their level in the program.

Student Orientation

The week before the course begins, new students will attend orientation sessions to learn more about LEAP and Langara. Students will receive more details information about orientation closer to their start date. Here are the upcoming LEAP Orientation dates:

May 2025 LEAP Orientation: Friday, April 25, 2025

LEAP Course Dates:

• May 2025 (April 28 - June 13, 2025)
• September 2025 (new structure only - please check back soon for program dates)

Applications open 11 months in advance. Registration is first come, first served until classes are full.

Accessibility Services

If you will need academic accommodations during your LEAP studies, your request should be submitted to Accessibility Services well in advance of the start of the session. Please follow the instructions and timeline on the Accessibility Services website.