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Frequently Asked Questions

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Everything you need to know about language courses

1. Is there a test at the end of the course?

No, but your teacher will be  completing a Progress Report based on your ongoing progress and your attendance. This report is recognized by the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec, the Ordre des comptables professionnels agrées du Québec, and the Ordre des ressources humaines et relations industriels (ORHRI).

2. Is there homework to do?

Homework is dealt with on an individual basis. If you have time for homework, your teacher will assign homework. If you find it hard to find the time, the teacher will make sure you maximize on your learning during class time.

3. How do I know which is the best program for my objectives?

You will be discussing your needs and objectives with the assessor dur your oral placement test. They will be able to recommend the best ELAM signature program for you.

4. How many language levels are there?

There are six language levels. We follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages CEFRL.

5. What do you do in a language course? What will I learn?

The course content is based on our Learner Profiles and the answers you give to the ELAM assessor when you take the oral placement test via Teams. If you mention you want to practice conversation and writing in the course, we will make sure your needs are met. If you say you have difficulty understanding people on the phone, we will make sure you practice listening skills in the course. You decide what the content will be.

6. How will you evaluate my language level and training needs?

Once you register, you will get the link to the written test and a link to book an oral assessment via Teams with an ELAM assessor. At the same time, we will evaluate your training needs and ask you to confirm your availability for the course.

7. Does my supervisor need to approve the course?

Yes, all courses should be approved by a manager or supervisor.

8. How soon can I start my class?

Once we receive their approval and confirmed a trainer that matches everyone’s availability, we will contact you with your course details (within about 10 days after meeting with the ELAM assessor).

9. What happens if I am placed at the wrong level?

After each class you can give instant feedback. Also, during the first week of classes ELAM will be in contact with your teacher to make sure you are at the right language level. If the teacher feels you are too high or too low, we will then contact you to offer you the possibility of changing classes.

10. What are the cancellation and privacy policies?

  • Cancelling with more than a 24-hour notice from the classes start time: you simply reschedule that class with your teacher or it is added to the end of the session.
  • Cancelling with less than a 24-hour notice from the classes start time: you lose that class.
  • The complete cancellation policies are found here.
  • Our privacy policies are found here.

11. Who do I contact if I want to register for the next session?

Please email info@elam.ca and we will direct your request to the right person.

12. How are the virtual courses given?

All virtual classes are offered via Teams using the latest AI apps.

Everything you need to know about language assessments

1. What is ECFA and ECBE

ECFA: Evaluation of Competencies in Business French

ECBE: Evaluation of Competencies in Business English

2. Who should take these assessments?

Any candidate applying for a position that requires specific oral and/or written language skills.

3. How is the assessment organized? What are the steps?

Once we receive the appointment form, we take care of the rest.

If the written assessment is required, the candidate will receive the link for the test immediately by email.

If the oral evaluation is required, the candidate will be contacted at the selected time.

4. What is the appointment process?

You make an appointment on our appointment link and follow the steps, which include the type of skills to be assessed, the date and time of the oral assessment, if applicable, and the timeline for the results.

5. How long does it take to receive the results?

You will receive a detailed report within 24 to 48 hours. If you require fast results, our EXPRESS service (for an additional fee) will ensure results within 3 hours.

6. What is the cost per assessment/skill?

Speaking and listening: $ 80

Written expression and reading comprehension: $ 80

7. What happens if the candidate is absent on the day of the assessment?

This will be considered a last-minute cancellation and you will be charged 100% of the assessment fee.

8. What levels or scales do you refer to

Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, CEFRL, which has 6 levels:

Beginner: A1-A2
Intermediate: B1-B2
Advanced: C1-C2

9. Do you provide specific assessments tailored to the position in question?

Yes, we offer a language standards assessment service. This service allows us to evaluate the levels required for your positions and propose them to you. This way, candidates will be evaluated taking into consideration the required for the position in question.

10. What are the language standards per position and how do you establish them?

This is a language audit for a position that has evolved over the years. We meet virtually with the manager of the position manager of the position, an ELAM human resources person to analyze the position.

11. Are there different versions of the written assessment?

Different versions are available and we can customize the subject of the essay to better reflect the reality of your field.

12. How can you ensure that the candidate is the one taking the oral or written assessment?

Both oral and written assessments are done via Teams and ensure an AI-proof experience. That said, candidates are usually responsible and aware of the importance of this assessment. In addition, some companies prefer to have the assessment done on their premises and on their own computers.