EAP is an intensive language program for students who are required to upgrade their English language skills. We have full-time and part-time programs that focus on academic writing, critical reading, listening comprehension and oral communication skills. Our goal is to help students begin a successful degree program as soon as possible. Students in the part-time EAP program may also take other university courses that count towards an undergraduate degree.

Our experience shows that allowing students to begin taking courses for credit as soon as possible offers the best combination of motivation, challenge, and success.

How are students placed in EAP courses?

When you first arrive at UPEI, you will take an English assessment (CanTEST). All students are required to take EAP courses if they have a CanTEST score below 4.5. Scores from each CanTEST section (i.e., reading, listening, writing, and speaking) are used to place students in corresponding EAP courses. The number of EAP courses required depends on your CanTEST score. See the EAP Language Guideline and Placement Table for more information on course placements.

Do I Need an English Assessment?

An English assessment is required for admission to a degree program if you have attended school in English for less than 4 years or do not have an official English proficiency score such as TOEFL, IELTS, etc. UPEI uses the CanTEST Placement Test, which was developed specifically for university admission. The assessment takes about 2 1/2 hours to complete. There is no special preparation required. Just bring your UPEI student ID number, if you have one (or some other photo ID) and a pen or pencil.

The CanTEST English placement test is comprised of 4 sections:

• Listening Comprehension - 30 minutes
• Reading Comprehension - 50 minutes (Both are multiple choice questions.)
• One-page writing sample on a general topic - 60 minutes
• Oral Interview (for new students only) - 10 minutes

The CanTEST is offered every Tuesday morning at 9:00 am, with some exceptions. Pre-registration is required. To register, drop by the International Relations Office to make an appointment, call 894-2842 or email eeclarke@upei.ca.

Is the CanTEST recognized by other universities for admission?

This is a placement test, valid only for UPEI. It is not the official CanTEST, which is a longer version and involves a formal interview. If you need an official English proficiency test for admission to another university or for immigration, be sure to check which tests are accepted.

Resources

• EAP Student Handbook