Yes. English language support, called ESL or ELL, is a standard part of Canadian public schooling and is widely offered to international students.
- Built into school: Ontario requires school boards to have programs and supports in place for English language learners, and teachers in all subjects share responsibility for students' English development.
- Placement first: Districts assess English before or on arrival. Toronto asks new secondary students to complete online English and mathematics assessments, and course selection depends on the results.
- Credit-bearing courses: In Ontario, up to three ESL or English literacy development credits can count toward the four compulsory English credits. The remaining English credit must be earned at the Grade 12 level.
- Learning alongside: Students normally take ESL together with regular subjects such as mathematics, science and the arts, and move into mainstream English courses as their level improves.
- Time matters: A student starting with basic English in a senior grade may need extra time to graduate, so it helps to begin earlier.
Please note: Some districts charge a separate fee for intensive language support; ask before you enrol.
Official sources: Ontario Schools K-12 policy: Meeting the needs of all learners · Toronto District School Board: International students FAQs
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More questions on this topic
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