Dalhousie University English Language Pathway Program

Language Pathway
Globally Recognized
Delivery Method:
In-Person
Duration:
Multi Term, Single Term

About the Program

On the beautiful Canadian Atlantic coast, you join the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program to prepare for academic study at Dalhousie or any other English-speaking university. Using authentic texts and materials in scheduled classes and self-paced learning, you gain strategies to make the most of your academic reading and listening materials. Under the guidance of friendly language-teaching experts, you learn to speak, read, write, and listen in an academic context and hone your academic soft skills, like effective independent learning, library and research, time management, and academic integrity.

Improve understanding and notetaking in university lectures

Live and work alongside “The friendliest people you’ll ever meet”

Four inclusive, welcoming campuses in Halifax and across Nova Scotia

Ranks 65th globally for tackling some of the world’s biggest issues

Spring Quarter 2025 Language + Summer 2025 Language + Fall 2025 Concurrent
Program dates:
Early April - Early December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
CA$
46,570

At a Glance

Language of Instruction:
English
Language Prerequisite Level:
Intermediate
GPA Requirements:
2.00
Academic Level:
Undergraduate
Academic Strengths:
Law, Psychology, Health & Pre-Med, Biology, Agriculture, Biomedical, Forestry, Biological & Physical Sciences
Housing:
Homestay
Visa Required:
Maybe

Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad

About the University

Dalhousie University

On the vibrant Atlantic coast, Dalhousie University stands as a beacon of  innovation and creativity. Across its campuses, Dalhousie has a rich, community- focused environment dedicated to fostering excellence and making a positive impact on the world. It is committed to accessible education for all, aiming to empower students and drive progress for the greater good. The spirited Dalhousie Tigers and Rams have a far-reaching influence that extends from  Halifax into the broader global community. 

Each of Dalhousie’s three Halifax campuses has its own unique character. Carleton, the first true Dal campus, welcomed students from 1886 and grew steadily until it needed more room. Elegant Studley on the peninsular is now Dal’s main campus and community hub. The Sexton Campus, also in Halifax, focuses on engineering and architecture, providing cutting-edge facilities and research opportunities. An hour from Halifax, in Truro, the Agricultural Campus emphasizes sustainable practices and hands-on learning in a rural setting. And the New Brunswick Campus specializes in medical education and health sciences, fostering a collaborative environment with a strong emphasis on community health.

Learn more at Dalhousie’s official website.

Academics

Dalhousie University's Academic Approach

In small classes, you immerse yourself in 24 hours per week for a full 12- week term, readying yourself to step into academic study in your specialism. 

The focus of the EAP is to give you the tools to make the most of your academic studies. You learn to write academic texts, going from research to completed essay or effective oral presentation. 

You work alongside students of a similar ability to enhance your advanced grammar and vocabulary skills, getting you to a position in which you are confident to edit and proofread your own writing.

Courses

This is a deeply practical course, encouraging you to get involved in group discussion, activities, and learning. 

Every morning, Monday to Thursday from 8:30 to 12:30, in seminars, lectures. and tutorials, you practice listening, talking, and taking effective notes. Then you write reports, essays, paragraphs, and reflections to create a portfolio that shows your developing confidence in English for Academic Purposes. 

You take feedback from your teacher as well as your peers—and you learn to provide appropriate written and oral feedback to others too.

Get To Know Our Application Process

From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.

Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor

Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.

Application Requirements

When applying to study abroad, you must meet the entry requirements set by the host university - and SAF is here to set you up for success.

The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
  • Language Proficiency
  • Academics & GPA
  • Application Documents & Materials

Language Test Score Requirements

Students enrolled in Dalhousie University English language program have the opportunity to progress to a Concurrent program in the following term which allows them to take Dalhousie undergraduate academic courses. To qualify, students must have the below minimum English proficiency scores at the time of their SAF application:

If you begin your SAF program in Spring Quarter:

IELTS 5.0 

TOEFL 61

If you begin your SAF program in Fall:

IELTS 5.5

TOEFL 72

Other language scores may be accepted by Dalhousie University. Please consult with the SAF advisor for further information.

Learn More About Language Requirements

Program Dates

When studying abroad, you will want to consider the time of year and how long you are away. Most programs follow the host university's academic calendar.

The dates shown below are general estimates, and as you get closer to the start of the term, you will get more detailed information from SAF. If you have any questions, your Student Counsellor and Program Specialist are always here to support you and point you to the correct information.

Spring Quarter 2025 Language + Summer 2025 Language + Fall 2025 Concurrent

Program dates:
Early April - Early December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
CA$
46,570

Housing Information

UC Davis Housing 04

Homestay

To enhance your language development, you move into a Dalhousien family homestay. You have a single room with a window and a shared bathroom. Your home is between 15 and 50 minutes from class, depending on the time of year (you’re likely to be further away during peak time). You share your evening meal with your hosts and have facilities to prepare your own breakfast and lunch (your host provides the food and ingredients). 

*Housing is subject to availability. For specific questions regarding housing please contact SAF.

About Halifax

Canada Halifax Destination 01

Why Halifax

On the Atlantic coast, Nova Scotia, is a haven of pristine lakes, clear rivers, and untouched ocean shorelines. A maritime city, Halifax has a strong community feel and abundant scenic neighborhoods and trails to explore, with the central business district built around the historic harbor. 

Learn more about Halifax

Orientation

On Arrival

Your SAF pre-departure process will arm you with all the information you need for a smooth arrival to your new campus, city, and country.

To Housing

Your SAF program will include a safe transfer from your arrival airport to your new study abroad housing. We'll even provide you with top tips to make the most of your new city!

Home Sweet Home

Your SAF Program Specialist will coordinate with you to ensure you have arrived safely and settled into your new secure housing.

Keeping You Safe

As you settle in, you will learn about the SAF emergency alert system, our 24/7 phone support, and any safety concerns relevant to you.

Get Social

Your new university and SAF will arrange social and cultural events so that you can meet other study abroad and local students. Make the most of your adventure!

Advising and Support

The process of studying abroad could quickly feel overwhelming, but we have been doing this for decades and do everything we can to support you through it. 

Many SAF staff are alumni and have walked this path. They have real-life experience to draw on as they advise and support you through every step of our comprehensive services. They’re in your corner, taking care of all the details and explaining what you need to do next.

Take the first step in your study abroad journey by scheduling a consultation with your closest Student Counselor. You can discuss your for-credit academic courses and language programs and explore internships, research programs, and study tours. When you know what you want to do, we guide you through the pre-program steps, help you arrange your visa and transport, and finalize your accommodation or digital experience.

Get To Know Our Application Process

From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.

Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor

Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.

Commonly Asked Questions About Studying Abroad

Language Pathway & Concurrent Programs

Interested in pursuing an Academic program but don't meet language requirements? Learn more about our Language Pathway and Concurrent programs that can assist you in meeting your academic goals. 

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University of the Arts, London Content 15

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Student Blogs

Fit

Staying Fit at DCU

Tips for staying all-around well while studying abroad at DCU.

Informational

Why Travel With SAF?

Studying abroad is an unforgettable experience, one that stays with you in your career, your contacts, your future. It can define you. At any of our prestigious university partners, you can build personalized for-credit programs that can last up to a whole year.

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