English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

English for Academic Purposes at St. Francis Xavier University is an English language bridging program for students offered a conditional acceptance to study at StFX. Successful completion of the advanced EAP course (Level 6) satisfies StFX’s language requirement (equivalent to 6.5 in IELTS) and allows students to enroll in full-time studies the following semester.

GOALS Whether you begin in level 5 or 6, the program’s goals are to: • Prepare students for academic study in a StFX classroom environment • Increase students’ English proficiency to meet the university’s admissions standards (IELTS 6.5)

OBJECTIVES The EAP program’s coursework is designed to improve students’ reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills and overall academic competency in a StFX classroom setting. Specifically, the program seeks to: • increase fluency and accuracy in oral and written English • foster independent learning and enhance collaborative skills • improve competency in academic researching and referencing • establish ability to meet academic standards in summarizing, paraphrasing, and quoting • develop a clear understanding of academic integrity rules and penalties • develop critical reading and writing skills at a university level • increase comfort with giving presentations and participating in discussions • provide strategies for problem solving and handling stress in a university setting • encourage cultural awareness and contribution • build communication skills • improve time management skills • improve note-taking and study skills • increase understanding of syllabi and assignment instructions

OUTCOMES • Complete daily individual and collaborative activities in class and at home • Complete a variety of individual and group academic assignments • Develop a study and time management plan • Take a final exam assessing reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills required for academic study in English