Because we really want the best for all students, we would like to offer you some tips to finding the best English school for your needs. Remember that not all English schools will give you what you want. Schools have different styles and different standards. They may not be bad, but just not your type!
Be clear about what type of program you want. Why are you learning English? For conversation, business, or academic purposes? What is most important to you in an ideal school? Measuring your progress? Plenty of speaking time? Making friends? Clean, new facilities? Professional teachers? Think about these points before you go looking.
Here are some great tips to help you find the perfect school for you.
- Shop around. See what is available before you decide. Save time by visiting their website. Most language schools depend on overseas students so a good school will have a good website. Check for translations and ask for local contacts (agents or past students who have returned).
- If you are overseas, ask a friend (or an agent who has visited), but someone who you can TRUST for advice. Ask them to take a tour (preferably with a free trial class), collect information and pay attention to the following things.
- If possible, VISIT the school yourself BEFORE you decide. Ask for a TRIAL LESSON, which is a free opportunity to experience a lesson BEFORE you commit. There is absolutely no obligation to join if you are not satisfied.
- INTRODUCE yourself when you first arrive and save yourself time by explaining clearly what type of study you are seeking. Do they have good translators?
- If a school does not greet you and treat you well when you come to visit or write to them, they WON'T treat you better when come to study. First impressions are important!
- Try to include a break-time during your visit so you can ask other STUDENTS why they chose this school and what they LOVE about it. Do others students look HAPPY in class and at break-time? Do they see the OWNER regularly at the school? Do you have a good feeling about the atmosphere?
- Ask them about other student NATIONALITIES. Are they what the school says they are? This is important as you can make lasting friends the world all over.
- If you email or phone, how LONG does it take before they reply. Is their reply personal and professional, or is it a general response?
- Ask what their MINIMUM teacher qualifications are. Do you like their teaching style?
- Does this school offer EXACTLY what you want?
- How many years has it been OPERATING? Is it REGISTERED and BONDED? (This means your fees may be protected if there is a dispute about your program).
- What is their REFUND policy and by when and how must you pay full fees?
- Price is NOT the most important factor but VALUE is. Ask what is included with the prices you are given: Class Materials? Activities? Coffee/tea? Hours of study? Social & break-time events? Internet or computer time? Study space? Facilities? Graduation? Registration fees? Are fees in Canadian dollars? What other services can they help you with? Are their programs flexible and can I combine programs? This is the only way to compare one school's price with another.
- Do they have any special PROMOTIONS?
- Is this a school where you can ENJOY learning and make new friends? If you are not happy, you won't learn. This includes your accommodation. Be DIRECT but polite. Ask: "What makes your school better than the others?" or, "Why should I choose your school?" Price is not a good reason but value is.
- Most importantly, do you think this school really CARES about you?
Remember that your time overseas is short and it may be your only chance to study here. After having paid for your flight and accommodation, how much more does it really cost you in deciding between a good school and an average one? Make this the experience you have always dreamed of!
Also, we are accredited by
Languages Canada (accreditation)
see here for more detail...
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