English Language Proficiency

To be successful in BCIT’s applied learning environment, applicants must demonstrate a suitable level of English in all four language skills:  reading, writing, speaking and listening. The English language proficiency requirement is program specific. Find your program online and refer to the program entry information.

To meet the English language proficiency requirement, applicants are assessed as either Category A or Category B.

Category A Applicants

Category A applicants are individuals who have studied for two years in a country where English is the primary language.

Category A applicants must meet both of the following criteria:

1. You have studied in a country listed in this table: Countries where English is the primary language.
2. You have completed at least two years of high school and/or post-secondary education in non-ESL/EAL courses.

Applicants who do not meet their program's English reading and writing (e.g., English 11/12) requirements should refer to BCIT's English 11/12 Equivalencies and Upgrading Options.

Category B Applicants

Category B applicants are individuals whose previous education is not from a country where English is the primary language or who have not completed two years of education in English in non-ESL/EAL courses.

You are a Category B applicant if either of the following applies:

1. You have not studied in a country listed in the table: Countries where English is the primary language.
2. You have not completed at least two years of high school and/or post-secondary education in non-ESL/EAL courses.

Category B applicants who have met the equivalent English 11/12 requirement for their program will be considered to have met the reading and writing English requirements, but will still need to prove their listening and speaking skills.

For information on how to meet all four required English language skills, review BCIT's English Equivalencies and Upgrading Options for Category B Applicants.

Note: Category B applicants who complete the Technology Entry program must still meet BCIT's speaking and listening requirements by achieving the necessary score in the COMM 0030 course or COMM 0033 test.

Table: Countries where English is the Primary Language