Frequently Asked Questions
How many levels of English are there at ILI and how will I know my level?
The International Language Institute has implemented a 11-level curriculum aligned with the standards of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). ILI has also adopted an online placement test aligned with these same standards. It is our way of ensuring that students are working at and assessed according to internationally recognized standards.
What are the classes like at ILI and how are they scheduled?
Our full-time schedule is as follows:
- 8:30-11:50: Monday-Friday: We call this 'morning class'. These classes are divided into 11 levels. You will be placed in the best level for you. This class includes all aspects of learning English: grammar, listening, reading, writing, speaking, vocabulary, pronunciation
- 1:00-3:15: Monday-Thursday: For skills class you are placed at the appropriate level and work primarily on reading, writing, and listening.
- 3:30-4:30: Monday-Thursday: This is an optional time period where full-time students are permitted to use our Self-study centre. We have computers for students to work on and a teacher available to answer questions and help with homework.
- 3:30-5:30: Monday-Thursday: Enhanced classes
What happens on my first day at ILI?
You should arrive on your first day at 8:30 am. Please remember to bring your passport and proof of your health and accident insurance if you have not purchased insurance through ILI. Your first day at ILI will be an orientation day, and you will receive important information about ILI's program and policies. A placement test will be administered in the morning followed by a written task and a brief oral interview to assess your speaking skills. In the afternoon you will meet with ILI's Host Family Coordinator and ILI's Social Director. A brief tour around the campus will end your first day at ILI. Your personalized schedule will be issued the following day when you will begin classes at ILI.
Where can I take the IELTS while I am in Halifax?
English Canada, ILI's associate company, is an offical testing centre for the IELTS exam. Both companies share the same location so you can register at the front desk for this exam.
ILI offers preparation classes for the IELTS at the 500 level.
When will I receive information about my host family in Halifax?
You will receive information about your host family approximately two weeks before you arrive in Halifax (provided ILI has received your payment of fees and your arrival details including your date of arrival, time, airline and flight number). The information you receive will include the names of the family members, the address and telephone number, a written description of the host family and the emergency contact number for the host family coordinator.
How close is the host family to ILI?
You will be able to travel to ILI by bus or by walking. Most host family homes are about a ten to twenty-minute bus ride from ILI.
Who will meet me at the airport?
The host family coordinator, Phyllis Hart, or her husband, Jack Hart, will meet you at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport. Phyllis or Jack will be waiting for you in the arrivals/baggage area. If your flight is delayed, you must call Phyllis. Her number will be on the host family information page you receive before you depart for Halifax.
What time/What day of the week do I have to arrive at the Halifax International Airport to use the airport pick-up service?
You can arrive anytime in the week before you start class (most students arrive on Friday or Saturday) and don't worry about coming in the middle of the night. Our Host Family Coordinator is used to going to the airport at very late hours!
Can I bring my laptop and use it at ILI or at my host family home?
Yes. The ILI campus has free wireless internet that students can use to log on to the internet. ILI also has a Self-Study Centre equipped with 34 computer terminals. Students have access to the internet and e-mail in the study center between Monday and Thursday at lunch and after classes.
What is the weather like in Halifax?
Halifax has a moderate maritime climate. In the summer, temperatures vary from 20-25 degrees Celsius. In the winter, the temperature usually stays around 0, but does go down to -10.
What is the night-life like in Halifax?
Although Halifax is a small city, it has quite an active night-life. Halifax actually has one of the highest proportions of bars per capita in North America! There are many restaurants, pubs and nightclubs to suit many different tastes.
How far in advance should I apply for a program?
If you are applying for a student visa, you should apply to ILI 6-8 weeks before you plan to start studying. Processing your visa can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks and to get a student visa, you must have an acceptance letter from ILI. If you are coming to ILI on a tourist visa (which means you'll be studying for less than 6 months), you should apply at least two weeks in advance.
How much monthly pocket money do you recommend I have?
The amount of pocket money you'll need depends on how often you want to go out. Some students spend only $20/week and others spend $200. If you plan to go to a movie ($10, out for dinner ($15-30), or out to a night club ($15-$40), you should budget some extra money. Most students require about $100/week.
Do I have to purchase insurance through ILI?
All ILI students must have health insurance. You do not have to purchase insurance through ILI. You are welcome to purchase insurance from a company in your home country. If you purchase insurance from someone other than ILI, you must bring proof of your health insurance on your first day of school. Please ensure the card/letter you bring includes your dates of coverage (start date and end date) and your name.
