Deciding to learn a new language PLUS move to new country may seem like a lot to take on for some ESL students. But the truth is, moving to Canada to enrol in an ESL program makes the whole language-learning process so much easier than you might think – and faster!

Research shows that language immersion combined with classroom instruction is the ESL student’s fast track to fluency – and admission into the Canadian university program of your choice.

Read on to learn exactly why immersion combined with classes is the best way to reach your ESL learning goals.

Immersion in Canada Builds Confidence and Fluency

Being immersed in a language means that you are surrounded by native speakers. You’ll use your developing English skills on a daily basis as you buy your groceries, browse through a bookstore, grab a coffee, go to the movies, or hang out in the student lounge on campus. You will listen, absorb, and speak English all the time. Immersion means you HAVE to use English, which may at first seem a bit intimidating, but will quickly help you build confidence and better language skills.

Immersion also helps you learn how Canadians really speak. At an ESL program in Canada, students meet locals on campus, get involved in the community, and take sight-seeing trips. This helps them develop fluency and sound like a native speaker themselves – much more so than if they learned English back home from a book, computer program or local school!

ESL Teachers Take Your English to the Next Level

Immersion is great for building fluency and confidence, but without expert teachers, students will have a difficult time developing the grammar, writing, and comprehension skills they will need in university. After all, if you’re taking English courses for western university because you want to major in Business, you will definitely need to know how to write an essay, do research and make presentations in English before starting school! On its own, immersion can’t help you build those specialized skills.

The strong foundation you build in ESL class COMBINED with every-day practise is really what makes the magic happen.

If you’re planning to study English in Canada, it’s important to choose an ESL program that has both experienced instructors and plenty of opportunities for getting involved in the local community. And that’s the real secret to learning English faster, and getting prepared for success at university.

What other techniques do you think help students learn English quickly?