Learning English is no easy task. Especially when you want to speak not just correctly, but fluently. But for those who find themselves in Toronto, language practice becomes a part of everyday life. Here, you can learn English at a university or a language school, or practice it while volunteering, at the library, at city events, or simply by talking with your roommate. More at toronto1.one.
This article compiles proven methods for improving your English specifically in Toronto.
Official Courses
For those who want to learn English systematically, with a clear structure and proven results, Toronto offers dozens of language programs. The most popular among them are, of course, university courses, which not only help improve your level but also prepare you for higher education. One such program is the English Language Institute at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson). They offer several options: English Boost is an 8-week intensive language practice program, and for those who need more time, there is a Pre-English Boost + Boost combination that lasts 16 weeks. The courses cover everything: reading, writing, speaking practice, and listening comprehension. As a result, students not only gain confidence in speaking English but also the opportunity to enter an undergraduate program.
For those with limited time, TMU offers short Immersive Language Programs – 1-4 weeks of classes with native speakers, excursions, debates, and a social program. This is a good option for a quick start or for reviewing the basics. Another way to learn the language is through private schools. For example, Kaplan, ILAC, and Oxford International are already well-known among students as places where you can thoroughly improve your English. All three are located in downtown Toronto, and each offers courses in general English, business communication, and preparation for international tests like IELTS or CELPIP. Importantly, classes are taught by certified instructors, and groups usually consist of students from different countries, so language practice is constant. It should be noted that all these programs are not the cheapest, but for many, they are the most reliable way to quickly raise their English level, especially if studying or working in Canada is a priority.
How to Improve Your English Outside of Courses?
Language learning isn’t just about textbooks, notebooks, and grammar. Especially in a city where English is heard everywhere, from coffee shops to subway lines. In Toronto, there are countless informal ways to practice the language, which are easily accessible and often free.
One of the most popular options is conversation circles, which are organized by universities and public institutions. For example, at Toronto Metropolitan University, there is a service called writing + language support, where students can practice conversational English for free in groups or one-on-one. These meetings are not like lectures; they are real, live conversations on topics that genuinely interest the participants. Making mistakes here isn’t scary; on the contrary, it’s expected and even encouraged by the organizers, as this is how you can truly improve your skills.
A similar format is offered in the city’s libraries. Branches of the Toronto Public Library host regular “Coffee and English” meetups – small, friendly gatherings with native speakers. Anyone can come, even without prior registration. The atmosphere is like a coffee shop: relaxed and casual, but with a clear focus on language practice.
For those who also want to improve their public speaking, it’s worth checking out Toastmasters – an international organization that helps people enhance their public speaking skills. Toronto has several dozen clubs where members speak in front of an audience weekly, learning to formulate thoughts, joke, and persuade – all in English, of course. And for those who don’t mind improvising, courses at Second City Improv are a great fit. This is where they teach you to speak easily, react quickly, and enjoy communication.
And another interesting resource is United for Literacy (formerly Frontier College). This is a Canadian community that organizes free volunteer programs for newcomers. Thanks to it, you can not only learn the language but also help others: for example, by teaching children, participating in language camps, or holding meetings in schools.
English Has to Become a Habit
No course works as well as real life. And Toronto is the perfect city to use English not just in class, but in everyday situations. In such an environment, even ordinary things become part of language practice. It all starts with the basics, like small talk: a conversation with a barista, clarifying an address at the pharmacy, ordering a taxi, or communicating with new neighbors. In dorms and rental housing, it’s rare for everyone to speak the same language, so English becomes a necessity. Speaking with classmates, colleagues, or housemates may not always be perfect, but it gets better with each attempt.
Cultural events also help a lot. Toronto regularly hosts open mic nights, volunteer events, film screenings, and fairs. And even if you don’t know any of the participants, the atmosphere at such events is usually open and friendly. People are eager to meet, start conversations, and share their impressions. Sometimes these evenings provide better language practice than a paired exercise in a classroom because they are about something more emotional and engaging.