International English Language (IEL) Program Overview

St. Margaret's School has an excellent record of preparing international students for successful entrance to universities and colleges in Canada, the US, and countries around the world. St. Margaret's goal is to help students complete British Columbia high school graduation requirements with sufficiently high marks to enter university while teaching them the skills needed to thrive in a post-secondary institution.

St. Margaret's ensures that each student is provided an educational program that matches her unique strengths and requirements. Once accepted by the School, international students participate in a variety of tests and observations, including standardized English language proficiency testing, to ensure proper placement in the IEL Program.

This is usually done during the two week Orientation for International Students in August, but may happen at any time throughout the year. Progress through the IEL Program is flexible and dependent on continued student achievement. Each stage of the student's English Language (EL) education supports the important long-term goal of successful graduation and entrance to university or the post-secondary institution of her choice.

To read our about our International English Language Program please click here. (PDF - 7.8MB)

Criteria for Placement
Each student is placed in an appropriate level of the IEL Program based on her English proficiency, which is determined by:

1. Standardized test: Secondary Level English Proficiency (SLEP)
2. Standardized test: Comprehensive English Language Test (CELT)
3. An oral interview
4. Written work
5. For a returning student or for a student who has had some schooling in Canada, the professional recommendation of core subject teachers as to the student's ability to handle the academic expectations of St. Margaret's School.

There are three options for international students entering St. Margaret's School: Transition Program, Bridge Program, Regular Classroom.

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