Intensive English

The Intensive English for International Students (IEIS) is the first step toward your academic program.

There are two pathways to meet the language requirements of the academic program you have chosen:

LANGUAGE
REQUIREMENTS

PATHWAY 1

Achieve a minimum score on a recognized English language proficiency assessment and enter your program directly.

PATHWAY 2

Take RRC Polytech’s Intensive English for International Students program to meet your program’s language requirements.

ACADEMIC
PROGRAMS

Intensive English for International Students

What’s this program all about?

The Intensive English for International Students (IEIS) is a full-time program designed to develop language skills for those studying, living, and working in Canada.

Students will:

  • Gain English-language skills through a classes and cultural activities.
  • Improve language proficiency.
  • Join one of RRC Polytech’s academic programs after they have completed the program.

Is the Intensive English program for me?

  • If you have not taken a IELTS Academic, TOEFL IBT or CanTest language assessment:
    • You can apply directly to the IEIS program (and to the academic program of interest at the same time).
  • If you have taken the IELTS Academic, TOEFL IBT or CanTest and haven’t achieved the minimum scores required by your academic program:
    • You can apply to the IEIS program and use your test scores to estimate the length of your IEIS program.

What will I learn in the Intensive English program?

The Intensive English for International Students (IEIS) program is designed to develop the English language skills of international students.

Students will:

  • Develop listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.
  • Enhance vocabulary, develop clear pronunciation, and improve grammar.
  • Learn the language with advanced technology and online resources.
  • Learn to communicate appropriately in the Canadian academic context and workplace.

What are the classes like?

Classes run Monday to Friday, with three to six hours of classroom time each day (about 25 hours a week). Classes may take place between 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Program outcomes will be met through:

  • Classroom study
  • Cultural events
  • Field trips
  • Guest speakers
  • Online language learning opportunities

Where does the Intensive English program take place?

The IEIS takes place at the Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI), located in RRC Polytech’s newest building, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, 319 Elgin Ave. in Winnipeg. RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration has developed and delivered English language programs for more than 30 years.

How long is the Intensive English program?

Each term is 15 weeks long. Your language scores determine which level you start at.

Understanding the different levels in the IEIS program

Foundations
15+ weeks
iBT TOEFL below 60 | IELTS Academic below 5.0 | CanTest below 3.0 | CLB 2-4
The Foundations stream provides a strong base for your language learning. You will learn essential skills to bring your English to the next level.

Intermediate 1
15 weeks
iBT TOEFL 60-70 | IELTS Academic 5.0-5.5 | CanTest 3.0-3.5 | CLB 5-6
The Low Intermediate stream develops English language skills for increased fluency and developing English proficiency. You will develop confidence and strategies to help you in your future academic and career goals.

Intermediate 2
15 weeks
iBT TOEFL 70-75 | IELTS Academic 5.5-6.0 | CanTest 3.5-4.0 | CLB 6-7
The High Intermediate stream prepares students to apply their language skills in academic contexts. You will practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing through real world academic and employment tasks.

College Readiness
15 weeks
iBT TOEFL 75-90 | IELTS Academic 6.0-6.5 | CanTest 4.0-4.5 | CLB 7-8
You will develop communication skills and strategies to help you succeed in the classroom and workplace. Depending on your chosen academic program, you may be placed in a College Readiness stream specific to your future program*, such as:

  • Communication for Business and Finance
  • Communication for Health Professions
  • Communication for I.T. Professions
  • Communication for Technical Professions
  • Communication for Culinary Arts
  • Communication for Transportation Technology

*streams subject to changes.

How many terms do I need?

The number of terms you will take is based on your language scores.

ESL Starting Level Length of Term Number of Terms to Complete Level 5 Total Number of Months
1      CLB 3/4
IELTS 3.0-4.5
15 weeks 5 20
2      CLB 4/5
IELTS 4.5-5.0
15 weeks 4 16
3      CLB 5/6
IELTS 5.0-5.5
15 weeks 3 12
4      CLB 6/7
IELTS 5.5-6.0
15 weeks 2 8
5      CLB 7/8
IELTS 6.0-6.5
15 weeks 1 4
IELTS 6.5 Academic Program
  • If you haven’t taken an English proficiency test at the time of applying, you will be required to provide scores from an approved exam at least 90 days prior to your start date. This test will determine the level of Intensive English for International Students program to place you in.
  • If you have taken a proficiency test, your scores will provide you with an estimate on how many terms you need.
    • Students with approved exam scores may not be required to take a placement assessment.

Approved exams for placement include Academic IELTS, TOEFL iBT, Academic PTE, and Duolingo. You can also choose to book a Versant placement test with RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration. To book a Versant placement test, please contact international-LTC@rrc.ca or +1.204.945.6151 (extension 6300).

When will I finish the Intensive English program?

After you achieve the English language requirements, you will be ready for your academic program.

MORE ABOUT THE INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAM >

Program Information


TUITION*
CAD $5,201 per term

Additional Fees
* Additional fees not included in the tuition: $800 CAD/year (International Health Insurance), $255 CAD/year (Extended Health and Dental), $170 CAD/term (Students’ Association fee and Student Services fee), and $66.40 CAD/year (Repatriate Insurance). Fees may change without notice.

ADDITIONAL INFO ABOUT FEES >


INTAKES
Late August, January and May

When’s the next intake?
The availability of the Intensive English for international students can be found in our list of programs.

SEE LIST OF PROGRAMS >

“It’s a great thing that you’re surrounded by people who start off like you. They barely know much English, but they slowly emerge into the culture, the language, the slang and all the fun stuff. It’s a great time. I have great friends, great instructors from there. I can’t ask for more.”

-Andy Pham, Vietnam

“The instructors at the Centre for Newcomer Integration made my life and class easier. The Intensive English program helped me a lot. We’re all international students, so basically we’re family here helping each other.”

-Sharmaine San Juan, Phillippines

Application Process

You should apply for both the Intensive English for International Students program and your preferred Academic Program at the same time.

How to Apply

Discover RRC Polytech’s Academic Programs

Read more about Red River College Polytechnic’s academic programs.

Academic Programs