Student Policies

The best possible environment for learning is one in which respect, diversity and inclusion are valued. Everyone at the ELI is expected to behave in a way that supports these principles in all communications and interactions. The ELI respects the dignity of individuals; learning takes place in a positive and supportive environment, free from harmful behaviors such as rudeness, bullying and harassment. The exchange of information, ideas, beliefs and opinion is promoted and flows from active concern and respect for others.

For more information about maintaining a respectful learning environment, visit the UBC Statement on Respectful Environment for Students, Faculty and Staff.

The ELI fosters and promotes the use of English as the main mode of communication within the ELI building, in all ELI classes and while participating in any ELI activity. All instructors, staff and students will play an active role in creating an environment that is respectful and equitable and where English is practiced in a comfortable, supportive atmosphere.

Students attending courses are expected to participate fully, and those who do not fulfill all course work requirements may not be able to successfully complete their program. Instructors should be contacted if a student is absent for any reason.

Instructors will explain their grading policy at the start of each course.

In the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program, students who wish to sit exams outside of the exam period should submit a written request at least one week in advance of the exam week, providing a reason. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Similarly, in cases where a student misses one or more final exams because of extenuating circumstances, the student should submit a written request to make up the exam, providing a reason for their absence.

Students in the EAP Program must achieve a mark of 75% in both the Academic Reading & Writing and Speaking & Listening Classes in order to progress and earn a Certificate of Achievement or the Certificate of English Language (CEL). Any continuing student who receives a mark above 70% but less than 75% will be given a conditional pass and will be considered to be on Academic Probation.

Any student who fails to progress has the right to appeal their grade. The student should first attempt to resolve the matter with their instructor.

The ELI is committed to creating an accessible learning environment where all students can meet the requirements of their courses. All requests for academic accommodation will be reviewed with the goal of assisting students in overcoming challenges that may affect their academic success. Academic accommodation shall not remove the need for evaluation and the need to meet essential learning outcomes.

All ELI students must follow the UBC Policy on Plagiarism. Plagiarism is using another person’s language, thoughts and ideas and saying that they are your own. If you use another person’s words in your writing, you must say who the author is. If you need help with this, please ask an instructor. For more information about UBC’s policy on plagiarism, visit the Academic Misconduct page.

Students with questions or concerns about their class should first address them with instructors.
The ELI will respond to and follow-up any student academic concerns based on the principles below:

1. Fairness: The ELI addresses all concerns fairly by respecting the rights of individuals and resolving concerns to the satisfaction of everyone involved.
2. Timeliness: The ELI handles all concerns without delay and resolves them as soon as possible.
3. Confidentiality: The ELI adheres to best practices in protecting privacy and confidentiality. Information sharing is on a “need to know” basis. Absolute confidentiality may not be possible in some circumstances.
4. Transparency: The ELI maintains clear, relevant and objective records in a secure location.
5. Support: The Academic Administrative Team will provide support and/or consultation to resolve student academic concerns.