Teaching English as a Second Language (Cert)
This undergraduate program is offered to expert speakers of English who have a completed undergraduate degree and an interest in teaching ESL. The program does not lead to provincial certification but it provides an excellent training in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL).
Who should apply?
The TESL Certificate is designed primarily for those who wish to teach overseas or in private language schools. It is also appropriate for certified teachers who would like to know more about the teaching of English as a second language and perhaps teach ESL in addition to another subject such as history or math.
Special funding for out-of-province students
Up to $4000 for undergraduate programs.
Program structure
The TESL certificate is 30 credits. The certificate can be completed within one academic year of full-time study, starting in the fall term. All courses are offered in the evenings so students may pursue their studies on a part-time basis while working during the day.
Program option
- Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language (30 credits)
Admission to the certificate is currently suspended.
Courses
United States students: A U.S. Federal Student Aid-eligible version of this program is offered. This version meets all U.S. regulations (such as no co-operative education or e-courses) for eligible programs.
Admission criteria
Admission to the certificate is currently suspended.
Minimum cut-off averages and course requirements
- Quebec Cegep: 25
- High School: B-
- ACT or SAT is NOT required
- Canadian curricula course requirements
- Accepted international qualifications
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma: 27
- International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (CP): 27
- Baccalauréat français: 12
- British system of education (GCE):
- A-levels: At least two A-level exams CC or
- AS-levels: At least 4 AS-level exams with equivalent results or
- BTEC: Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in a related subject area with equivalent results
- Additional information for British System of Education (GCE) applicants
- University Transfers (internal/external): B-
Additional requirements for admission
- Students must have a first university degree with a good academic record.
- Program-specific application
- Completion of 45-minute English Composition Placement Test (ECPT) with satisfactory grade
- Reference/Assessment forms
Minimum cut-off averages should be used as indicators. The cut-off data may change depending on the applicant pool. Applicants who meet the stated minimum requirements are not guaranteed admission to these programs.
Application deadlines

FALL ENTRY (September)
Deadline: March 1
International applicants: Apply no later than February 1 to allow time for immigration document processing. However, applying earlier is strongly recommended. Immigration processing times vary by country, and delays could prevent you from starting your studies on time.

WINTER ENTRY (January)
Admission to this program is available for the Fall Term only.
We reserve the right to close admission to a program at any time after the official deadline without prior notice.
Student story

Emmy Fecteau
Specialization Teaching English as a Second Language
Being at Concordia was the best five years of my life. Enjoy your time here because it goes by so fast.

Julie Tran
Specialization Teaching English as a Second Language
From the classroom to the gym, Julie Tran builds community for students to stay active and make new friends on campus.
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