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Why choose to Learn English for Academic Purposes?
Prepare for university success in Canada with the English language and academic skills you need to study with confidence at Mount Royal University.
Mount Royal University's Learn English for Academic Purposes (LEAP) program helps international students build the English language and academic skills needed to succeed in university and beyond.
Successfully completing LEAP 4 meets Mount Royal University's English Language Proficiency Requirement for degree, diploma, and certificate programs, so you won't need to complete another English language test.
LEAP offers four levels of high-quality English instruction. You'll complete a placement test to determine your starting level, with each level taking 13 weeks to complete. Depending on your placement, you can complete the full program in as little as 15 months.
Learn from experienced, accredited instructors while building skills in:
- essay writing
- presentation skills
- academic discussions
- critical thinking
- reading and listening
Students enrolled in LEAP 3 and LEAP 4 may also be eligible to take select courses through Academic Upgrading or Open Studies, with approval from the LEAP Program Office.
Whether you're beginning your academic English journey or preparing to enter an undergraduate program, LEAP gives you the skills, confidence, and support to achieve your goals at Mount Royal University and beyond.
Looking for a different way to improve your English? Mount Royal also offers part-time English course, the Summer English Language Program, and professional development for English language teachers.
Learn English for Academic Purposes Information Sessions
Join us to learn more about the LEAP program and how it will help you develop the language and academic skills you need to succeed in university and beyond. Faculty and a recruitment specialist will be there to answer your questions.
Register now
Program highlights
- Develop the reading, writing, speaking and listening skills you need to excel in university-level courses
- Move confidently from low-intermediate to advanced English while preparing for admission into MRU degree programs
- Complete LEAP Level 4 to meet MRU’s English Language Proficiency Requirement and start your studies in business, health, arts, science and more
- Study with TESL-certified teachers who specialize in academic English and support your individual progress
- Learn in an inclusive environment where small class sizes and personalized attention help you thrive
- Enjoy peace of mind knowing your program is accredited by Languages Canada and meets the highest national standards for quality and excellence
Future possibilities
While LEAP is a non-credit academic English program, it lays the foundation for future study in credit programs. After completing LEAP Level 4, students can pursue degrees, diplomas or certificates at MRU in fields such as:
- Business and marketing
- Health and nursing
- Science and technology
- Arts, education or communication
- Social work or child studies
The LEAP program was amazing. I learned a lot from my teachers and classmates and greatly noticed the improvement of my English skills from the beginning to the end of the program.
— Sebastian Beltran Medina
LEAP graduate
Curriculum and courses
What will I learn in the LEAP program?
LEAP helps you advance your English through a structured, progressive academic pathway designed to prepare you for university-level study. Gain skills in:
- Building essential grammar, vocabulary and study strategies
- Reading, writing, listening and speaking skills through integrated academic tasks
- Understanding academic concepts and refined higher-level language skills through analysis and critical engagement with academic texts
- Research that prepares you for success in MRU degree, diploma or certificate programs
Student life and support
At MRU, LEAP students learn in a supportive and inclusive community that extends beyond the classroom. You’ll have access to a variety of academic and social experiences designed to help you succeed both at university and in everyday life.
As a LEAP student, you can:
- Join the Speaking Strategies Studio to build confidence, practice speaking skills, and develop strategies for effective communication in academic settings.
- Attend the Academic Writing Studio for additional support with academic writing, assignments, and strategies for strengthening your writing skills.
- Participate in the Global Student Lounge, which offers a range of cultural and social events, including workshops, orientation sessions and intercultural celebrations on campus
Admission requirements
Requirements can vary, so it’s important to review what’s needed for your area of interest.
What are the requirements for the Learn English for Academic Purposes program?
The LEAP program is not designed for students with beginner-level English. We do not require official test scores to document your English level, however, students must be at a minimum CLB 4 (all strands) or IELTS 4.0 to begin the LEAP program.
The LEAP program welcomes applications from:
- Newcomers
- International Students
- Permanent Residents
- Canadian Citizens
- Convention Refugees
The LEAP office will conduct placement testing to determine your LEAP level and program eligibility.
Successful completion of the highest level of the LEAP program, LEAP 4, can satisfy the English Language Proficiency Requirement for degree and diploma programs at Mount Royal.
Admission and testing informationAdmission deadlines
The LEAP program has three admission intakes:
- Spring: May - August
- Fall: September - December
- Winter: January - April
Admission deadlines for LEAP depend on the term of interest as well if you are an international applicant requiring a study permit or a domestic student who is seeking government funding.
View all admission deadlinesCosts
We know your investment in post-secondary education is a big deal. Make sure you’re on the right financial track by reviewing the costs and financial support available.
How much does the Learn English for Academic Purposes program cost?
The cost of your studies depends on a few things, like the program you choose and whether you’ll live at home or in Residence.
To get a better idea of what you might spend, view the full fee breakdown of our courses and costs. These costs are for one term of study.
Students are also responsible for purchasing textbooks. The exact cost will vary based on your LEAP level, but we recommend that you budget $275-300 per level for your books.
Please be aware of the payment and refund policies that apply to the LEAP program.
Eligible domestic students may qualify for government financial support through the Foundational Learning Assistance Program (FLAP).
Meeting FLAP eligibility requirements does not guarantee a funded seat in the LEAP Program. Mount Royal has a limited number of funded seats available per LEAP level. You must submit your LEAP program application on or before the funding application deadline to be considered for a funded seat.
Please contact the LEAP office for any questions about FLAP funding availability.
Have questions?
Our info sessions are a great way to explore MRU programs, learn how to apply and connect with people who are here to help.
View info sessions
Why MRU
At MRU, learning is about more than lectures and textbooks. It’s about evolving through experience. With small class sizes, supportive faculty and hands-on opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, push boundaries and uncover what they’re capable of. MRU helps students build the skills, confidence and curiosity to shape meaningful futures in Calgary and beyond.
Discover why MRU International student infoExplore other options
Mount Royal offers other English language programs, including part time courses, the Summer English Language program and professional development for teachers.
LEAP Information Sessions
Join us to learn more about the LEAP program and how it will help you develop the language and academic skills you need to succeed in university and beyond. Faculty and a recruitment specialist will be there to answer your questions.
Sign-up