1) How can I know my level?

On your first day at CSLI, you will be given an English assessment exam. Our teachers will look at your test and decide what level is best for you. You do not need to be concerned about your level before coming to CSLI.

2) How do I get to the school?

Bus 15 and bus 17 stop in front of our school building. We are a five-minute walk from Stadium Skytrain station. You can check the schedules at www.translink.bc.ca. You can find a map to our school at the bottom of this page: Our School

3) What do I need to do my first day?

Please arrive one hour before class (at 8 AM). Our staff will go through your registration information with you, and you will be given an English Assessment Test. After your test, you will be given a tour of the school. Classes begin at 9 AM. There is an orientation meeting for all new students at 12:10, just after your first class.

4) What do I need to bring my first day?

Please bring two passport-sized photographs and proof of medical insurance. If you do not have medical insurance, you will have to buy some from CSLI at $2/day. If you do not have photographs, we can take them for you for $5. You will be given a binder with paper, so you do not need to bring a notebook your first day. However, please bring a pen or pencil.

5) How can I know more about my homestay?

Before you come to Vancouver, you will receive an e-mail confirming your homestay reservation. It will give you details about the homestay family, as well as a phone number and/or e-mail address. You may contact your homestay before leaving your country if you have any specific questions for them.

6) Can I change my program?

You can change from part-time to full-time by paying an extra fee. Please speak to our front desk staff and they will be happy to help you.

You can change into our specialty classes on a first-come, first-served basis if your level matches the requirements for the specialty class. Please fill out a request form at the front desk if you are interested.

7) How can I improve my English level?

Students who participate actively in class can usually improve by one level in 4 to 6 weeks. Participating in class discussions, doing your homework, and socializing in English after school are the best ways to improve your English. If you wish, you may also write journals for your teacher to correct, and ask for extra homework. The more energy you put into your English, the faster you will improve. For study hints, please see our Study Tips at: Student Responsibilities

8) Where can I change my money?

Most banks will be able to change your money for you. There are also several Currency Exchange offices downtown.

9) Where can I buy a bus pass/bus tickets?

Bus passes and tickets are sold at various stores around Vancouver. 7-11 is the most common store that sells passes and tickets. Please check the number of zones that you will be traveling to and from school. CSLI is located in Zone 1, but several homestays are located in Zone 2. One-zone trips are $2.25 and 2-zone trips are $3.25. You can also pay on the bus with coins, but not with dollar bills. Our front desk staff can sell you bus tickets for your first day's trip back home.

10) Can I use a computer at CSLI?

Our computer room has 14 computers with a high-speed internet connection. These computers allow for writing in Japanese, Korean, and all other languages. You can use these computers 3 times a week.

11) How can I get an International Student Identity Card?

Take your CSLI Student Card to Travel Cuts or STA Travel to make an International Student Identity Card. We can give you directions when you get here.

12) What is the daily class schedule?

Part-time students can study in either the morning or the afternoon, according to how they registered. Full-time students study in both the morning and afternoon. You can see the schedule at the bottom of this page: Class Hours

13) How can I make Canadian friends?

Be open-minded and talkative. Canadians are very friendly. Getting involved in activities that you like in your country will help you to meet people: volunteer or join a sports team. Our front desk staff can help you find volunteer positions. Check our monthly CSLI Calendar to see all the daily activities that CSLI suggests.

14) How can I phone my home country?

CSLI sells long-distance telephone cards that have very good prices for international calls. You can buy these at the front desk. We can explain how to use them. These are much cheaper than making regular international phone calls, and they are easy to use - so please phone your family and friends often!