Alma mater to politicians, astronauts, and leaders in computer coding, the forward-looking University of Calgary’s extraordinary track record speaks for itself. Its 200-hectare campus is rich in state-of-the-art research facilities, support services, and opportunities to ensure you have everything you need to succeed as a student in one of the most liveable cities in the world.
University of Calgary Language Pathway Program









About the Program
Program Advisor

At a Glance
Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad
Former SAF Scholar
What you learn from this experience will benefit you for the rest of your life.
University of Calgary SAF Alumni

About the University
University of Calgary
Alma mater to politicians and a prime minister, astronauts and leaders in computer coding, UCalgary hits well above its weight considering it was granted autonomy in 1966.
Calgary is a place where things happen and growth feels guaranteed. Transformation, evolution, and development are par for the course in the city as much as it is at the forward-looking university.
Calgary has one of the most extensive bike-way systems in North America and is just an hour from the majestic wilderness and nature of Banff National Park.
Learn more at University of Calgary's official website.
Academics

University of Calgary's Academic Approach
For the first two weeks of the language course, you focus exclusively on oral fluency and confidence building as you immerse yourself in the Language and Culture Course. This also helps you familiarize you with your new home in accessible and outgoing Western Canada.
Courses
You learn in classes appropriate to your proficiency and with an average class size of 16, there are ample opportunities for personal support as you prepare to step into you academic courses the following semester.
Classroom Hours
You are in class between 20 and 25 hours each week.
2-week Language and Culture program – 25 hours per week (50 hours in 2 weeks)
13-week semester program – approximately 22 to 24 hours per week (275 hours in 13 weeks)
*SAF program fee tuition rate is based upon Presessional: 25 hours of language instruction per week and Language: 22 to 24 hours of language instruction per week.
Language Levels
There are six levels, from high beginner to upper advanced, offered in 13-week terms (12 weeks of instruction and one week of exams).
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Application Requirements
The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
Language Test Score Requirements
There are no requirements to join this program.
Program Dates
When studying abroad, you will want to consider the time of year and how long you are away. Most programs follow the host university's academic calendar.
The dates shown below are general estimates, and as you get closer to the start of the term, you will get more detailed information from SAF. If you have any questions, your Student Counsellor and Program Specialist are always here to support you and point you to the correct information.
Housing Information

Homestay
The SAF homestay program fee covers a single bedroom with a local Canadian family. You enjoy three meals a day, which is the perfect opportunity to practice your language skills. You share the living space, kitchen, and laundry facilities. The SAF program fee includes airport pick up and drop off and break-stay housing. It does not include early arrival accommodation.
About Calgary

Why Calgary
One of the most livable cities in the world, Calgary has a spirit unlike any others: it's a place where things happen and growth feels guaranteed. Transformation, evolution, and development are par for the course in this entrepreneurial city, and the majestic wilderness and nature of Banff National Park is just an hour from the city limits.
The Student Experience

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Orientation
Advising and Support
The process of studying abroad could quickly feel overwhelming, but we have been doing this for decades and do everything we can to support you through it.
Many SAF staff are alumni and have walked this path. They have real-life experience to draw on as they advise and support you through every step of our comprehensive services. They’re in your corner, taking care of all the details and explaining what you need to do next.
Take the first step in your study abroad journey by scheduling a consultation with your closest Student Counselor. You can discuss your for-credit academic courses and language programs and explore internships, research programs, and study tours. When you know what you want to do, we guide you through the pre-program steps, help you arrange your visa and transport, and finalize your accommodation or digital experience.
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Commonly Asked Questions About Studying Abroad
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Why Travel With SAF?
Studying abroad is an unforgettable experience, one that stays with you in your career, your contacts, your future. It can define you. At any of our prestigious university partners, you can build personalized for-credit programs that can last up to a whole year.
