English Language Foundations (ELF) - Details and FAQs
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What is ELF? - ELF is English Language Foundations and is part of the Centre for Academic Learner Services at SAIT
- ELF is similar to English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
- ELF is a fast-track program.
- ELF has 5 levels (Ranging from Intermediate to Advanced).
- Each ELF level is 8 weeks long.
- ELF offers Reading/Writing and Listening/Speaking classes.
- ELF follows the Canadian Language Benchmarks Assessment (CLBA)
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Click on the links below to find answers to some of the most common questions people have about ELF. - How do I apply?
- What is the CLBA?
- Who studies ELF?
How do I apply? Step 1:
Visit the ELF in the Learner Success Centre, Room MC 221 (Heart Building), send an e-mail or call 403.210.4045. Step 2: Take the CLBA. Step 3: Get a minimum CLBA 4 to join ELF
What is the CLBA? Many Canadian post secondary institutions use the CLBA to assess student's English Language ability. You will have to take this assessment before studying ELF at SAIT. Below is the process, and how you will be placed at SAIT. Also, read the descriptors to find out what you will be able to do at each level. Who studies ELF? ELF students want to succeed in Canada. Many are professionals in their own countries who need good English skills to unlock their technical training for the Canadian workplace. Others are international students who want a Canadian education to prepare for the global workplace. How much does ELF cost? - $1,300 per 8-week term: Domestic Students
- $2,600 per 8-week term: International Students
- Books and Materials for each term cost about $150 - $200.
How long will it take? Each level is 8 weeks long. Students registering in Level 1 should plan for 5 to 6 terms to complete Level 5. ELF: FAQ Can I take other programs at SAIT?
Completion of ELF level 5 meets SAIT Polytechnic’s English language proficiency requirements. What happens if I can't pay my fees on time?
Unfortunately if you are unable to pay your fees, you will be removed from your program. It is important to get your funding in place early. SIP Funding may be available. What happens if my student loan/funding does not come on time?
As long as you have proof or notice of assessment that you will be receiving your funding, SAIT will accept this and flag as payment. How can I find out my fee information?
Fee information is ONLY available online at http:www.mysait.ca. Hardcopy student invoices will no longer be issued. You can follow these steps once you have logged into your mySAIT.ca account: - Click on the My Student tab
- Click on the focus icon next to the words "Academic Services". This will expand the screen full screen
- Click on Student Records
- Click on Account Summary by Term / Credit Card Payment
Where can I find information on living on campus (SAIT residence)?
Call 403.284.8013 or go here. Where can I find information on living off campus?
For information on off-campus housing call (toll free) 1-866-432-6610, email help@rentingspaces.ca or visit www.rentingspaces.ca. Where do I obtain my booklist?
Print your booklist from the bookstore website. Is it a good idea to go to school and have a part-time job?
This is entirely up to you. If you feel you can do both then there are numerous part-time, weekend and contract positions listed on http://studentemployment.sait.ca/. Where do I park and how much does it cost?
Check out our rates at our parking site. What should I do if I am having difficulties in some of my classes? Is there help available?
First, talk to your instructor. If you are having learning or personal difficulties be sure to contact the Learning Resource Centre or the Counselling office. The Learning Resource Centre can introduce you to a tutor in any subject, help you with effective exam writing, help you to multi-task and more. Counselling can help with exam anxiety, academic difficulties and personnel problems. How do I change my courses in my timetable?
Your timetable is ready-made for your program. You will not be able to change courses or select different times. How do I find out where my courses are?
Log into your http://mysait.ca/ account and then follow these steps: - Click on the myStudent tab
- Click on the magnifying glass icon next to the words, "Academic Services".
- Click on Registration
- Click on Student Schedule by Day and Time
- Click on Submit Term
You should be able to see your schedule. To find out more detailed information, click on the course link. This will show you information like your instructor's name as well as the room and building location. When/how do I register for the next semester?
You will be notified by e-mail as to when you should register for your next course. You shouldn't wait until your marks have been posted. Please register early in N304! I can't log on to my computer. How do I do this?
Ask your instructor! This information will be given to you on your first day of classes. How many days can I miss per semester?
You should not miss any classes, unless unavoidable. The course is very fast-paced and if you miss just one class, you will fall behind. However, illness or situations out of your control may cause you to miss up to 3 classes. After that, you will have to explain your specific situation to the Program Coordinator in person. Where can I use a computer on campus?
There are computers and computer rooms all over campus. First, try the library. After that, try one of the computer labs listed below. Only use the lab if there is no class scheduled. Please check the timetable, which is located on the wall next to the door, before using the lab. If I have a problem with my marks, who should I talk to?
First, talk to your instructor. The next step is to talk to then talk to the ELF manager. Please do not go directly to the office with a problem before talking to your instructor. How much homework do I have to do?
To be successful in a fast-paced course like ELF, a good rule to follow is a minimum of 1 hour of homework for every hour of class time. That is, if you have 4 hours of class everyday, you should do at least 4 more hours of homework that evening. It is a full time job. Do I have to buy the textbooks?
Yes. You must buy all the textbooks for your courses and bring them to class everyday. You can sell them at the end of the course, if you like. How can I sell my old textbooks? - At SAITSA Seconds
- At the Book Buyback at the bookstore
- Through bulletin board posting next to N304
Where can I buy used textbooks?
See "How can I sell my old textbooks?" Can I rewrite an exam?
No. If you must miss an exam, you must talk to your teacher before the exam to make alternative plans. No make up exams will be given. Contact Us: Phone: 403.210.4045
E-mail: english.language@sait.ca
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