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English courses abroad

Choose your course. Choose your future

Improve quickly on our English courses abroad

At EC, we believe your language journey is more than just education: It’s a path to a brighter future filled with opportunity and growth. Our English courses abroad help you achieve your language learning goals, while ensuring an immersive study experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Courses from 1 week, with no maximum stay

20, 24, 26 or 30 lessons per week

All levels: from beginner to advanced

What English courses abroad can I take?

You need to study English for …

General English

Improve your English on our most popular course

On the General English course, you’ll take 20 core lessons per week. Want to learn faster? Add extra lessons to boost your progress. You can also combine your course with exciting add-ons below, making the most of your time in your chosen destination.

Customisable learning paths
Flexible schedule
Interactive content

Education & Exams

Get your best exam score or prepare for higher education

Want to reach your dream education and career? Our Exam Preparation and Academic English courses, like IELTS and Cambridge First, will help you get ready. Whether you’re preparing for exams or improving your English, our courses give you the skills to succeed in English-speaking universities and build a strong career—whether in business, technology, or any job that needs good English. Start your journey to success today!

Expert-led exam preparation
Proven success rates
Comprehensive study materials

English for Business

These courses are designed to get you communicating fluently in today’s global workplace!

If you want the freedom and flexibility to pursue the career of your choice anywhere in the world, English for Business could be the perfect course for you.

Industry-specific vocabulary
Professional communication
Flexible learning options

How do you want to learn English?

We offer in-person and online course options. Which one works best for you?

Study abroad

In-Person interaction

Engage directly with teachers and fellow students in a classroom setting, fostering a more personalised learning experience.

Immersive experience abroad

Benefit from the cultural and social immersion that comes with studying in an English-speaking country. Participate in local activities and practice your language skills in real-world situations.

School facilities

Access state-of-the-art onsite facilities such as libraries and study rooms, as well as award-winning student support services to enhance your learning journey.

Networking opportunities

Build relationships with peers from around the globe forming an international network of contacts.

Study online

Can’t take EC English courses in person? Join us from anywhere in the world.

Live online English classes

International virtual classrooms

Times to suit your schedule

Structured courses to ensure progression

Learn More

Get motivated teachers, committed to your success

No matter which language course or destination you choose, you’ll learn from friendly and professional teachers, dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Get individual support with a personalised programme and help you track your progress, every step of the way.

All our teachers are committed to creating a supportive language learning environment. With their guidance, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in your studies and beyond.

Discover more

Go the distance, with a multi-destination English language course

Immerse yourself in the English language while studying long-term (24+ weeks) in an English-speaking country.

Get that…

Certificate

University
spot

Top Job

English language progression timeline & learning goals

Data-driven benchmarks for reaching English fluency.

Based on EC Student Analytics (monitored since 2016), our students typically progress one CEFR level every 8 weeks. This timeline is designed to help you plan your academic route from Beginner (A1) to Proficiency (C2).

Progress one level every 8 weeks!

EC Levels	A1	A2	B1	B1+	B2	B2+	C1	C2
IELTS*	–	3.0 – 4.0	4.0 – 4.5	4.5 – 5.0	5.0 – 6.0	6.0 – 6.5	6.5 – 7.5	–
Cambridge*	–	KET	–	PET	FCE		CAE	–
TOEFL*	–	–	–	35 – 45	46 – 65	66 – 85	86 – 105	–
TOEIC*	–	255 – 400	405 – 600		605 – 780		785 – 900	–
*Equivalent	4 weeks	8 weeks	8 weeks	8 weeks	8 weeks	8 weeks	8 weeks

A1

Beginner
You have a very basic knowledge of vocabulary and simple grammatical structure. You can invite someone somewhere and talk about your past.

A2

Elementary
You understand most conversations spoken slowly and clearly. You can give someone simple directions on the street.

B1

Pre-intermediate
You speak fairly easily on everyday matters. You can explain what you need from service providers.

B1+

Intermediate
You can communicate easily on everyday matters but have a limited range of expression. You can have a conversation on the telephone.

B2

Upper-intermediate
You can use the language with some confidence but with noticeable lapses in accuracy and fluency. You can give a short business presentation in English.

B2+

Pre-advanced
You can use the language with confidence. You can read English newspapers, follow TV news and apply for an English-speaking job.

C1

Advanced
With a good command of English, you can read and write accurately with few errors. You can understand most academic texts and lectures.

C2

Proficiency
You have near-full command of the language. You can use industry terms for your field of study.

Explore our language schools

Not sure where to go? Explore our popular language destinations in English-speaking countries and beyond, and choose the perfect English school for your immersive language programme and cultural experience.

Most Popular
USA
Canada
United Kingdom
Ireland
Malta
South Africa
UAE

Most Popular

Start at £405

Start at $500

Start at €300

Start at €380

Start at C$435

Start at €345

Start at $310

View all

Schools

USA

Start at $505

Start at $500

Start at $500

Start at $455

Start at $450

Canada

Start at C$420

Start at C$435

Start at C$435

Start at C$435

Start at C$435

United Kingdom

Start at £405

Start at £405

Start at £375

Start at £385

Start at £385

Start at £365

Start at £380

Ireland

Dublin

Start at €380

Dublin 30+

Start at €380

Malta

Start at €300

Malta 30+

Start at €300

South Africa

Cape Town

Start at €345

Cape Town 30+

Start at €345

UAE

Dubai

Start at $310

What EC brings to the table

Not sure where to go? Explore our destinations and find your perfect immersion spot! Enjoy a unique cultural and educational experience with EC English.

Dedicated Teachers

Learn from highly qualified and experienced teachers

Global
network

Study at any of our 25 schools in 7 countries

Flexible programmes

Choose from a variety of courses that fit your schedule and goals

Cultural immersion

Participate in activities and events that will enhance your learning experience

Student
support

Receive academic and personal support throughout your studies

Insights and Updates

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Find out how our international students turned their first steps in language learning into important achievements that changed their lives.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the average class size for EC English courses?

At EC English, we maintain a global average of 11 to 12 students per class to ensure personalised attention and active participation. While class sizes vary by destination, we strictly adhere to maximum capacities to protect the quality of your learning experience.

EC English class sizes

Destination	Average Class Size	Maximum Capacity
USA, Ireland (Dublin) & Malta	11	15 (14 in Malta)
UK (London, Bristol, Cambridge)	10-11	15
UK (Brighton, Manchester	12	15
South Africa & Dubai	12	15
Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal	14	16–18*

*Note: In Canada, EC reserves the right to increase class capacity to a maximum of 18 students on limited, high-demand occasions.

Pro-tip: Students in our 30+ English programmes often benefit from even smaller, more intimate group settings tailored to professional learners.

Are EC English courses accredited?

Yes, every EC English school is accredited by the leading regulatory bodies in its respective country. These accreditations ensure high standards of teaching, administration, and student welfare.

Accreditation table

Country	Accrediting Body	Why it matters
USA	ACCET	Recognised by the U.S. Department of Education.
Canada	Languages Canada	Ensures quality across Canadian language courses.
UK	British Council	The gold standard for UK English language schools.
Ireland	English Education Ireland	Statutory body for quality assurance in Ireland.
Malta	FELTOM	The premier federation for Malta’s English language schools.
South Africa	Education South Africa	The national association of quality English language centres.

We also hold memberships with English UK and English USA and our schools have won multiple ST Star Awards for excellence in international education.

How long does it take to move up an English level at EC?

On average, a student at EC English progresses by one level every 8 weeks. This benchmark is based on our EC Student Analytics data monitored since 2016.

If you do not meet your progression goals within this timeframe, we provide a Personalised Learning Plan, which includes:

1-to-1 Academic Consultations to identify learning gaps.
Targeted Support Sessions and additional resources.
Weekly Progress Monitoring via the MyEC app.

Note: Progression speed can vary based on course intensity (General vs. Intensive) and individual commitment.

What student support is provided during EC English courses?

You receive a dedicated support team consisting of at least two teachers per course. We provide weekly progress assessments, 1-to-1 feedback sessions, and personalised learning resources via the MyEC app to ensure you meet your specific language goals.

Does EC offer languages other than English?

While EC specialises in English immersion across the USA, UK, Canada, Malta, South Africa, Ireland and Dubai, we also offer French language courses exclusively at our EC Montreal school.

Will I receive a recognised certificate after my English course?

Yes. Upon completing at least 80% of your program, you will receive an EC Certificate of Participation.

General Courses: EC Certificate of Merit.

Academic Year: EC Diploma.

Exit Testing: All students can take an exit test certified by OxfordEnglishTesting.com and accredited by the British Council.

How do I choose the right English level?

We use a placement test (via the MyEC app) to assign you to the correct class.

Beginner to Advanced: General English.
Pre-Intermediate: English for Work.
Intermediate+: Exam Preparation (IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, Cambridge).

We have English language courses for learners of all levels.

How are EC English courses developed?

We have a dedicated Academic Development team made up of industry professionals including published authors and an educational technologists. Research-based and data-driven, our courses reflect the latest educational trends and methods to ensure you have the most effective learning experience.