Explore Program
Explore is an intensive five-week program providing French-speaking Canadian and permanent resident students with an opportunity to improve their English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in an immersive environment.
The program components include English language instruction, skill-focused workshops, educational field trips and socio-cultural activities. Students live with host families for the duration of the program.
French-speaking Canadian and permanent resident students may be eligible to obtain a bursary from the Canadian government and should visit francaisanglais.ca/explore for more information.
(Les étudiants canadiens français et résidents permanents peuvent être éligibles pour une bourse du gouvernement canadien et devraient visiter francaisanglais.ca/explore pour plus d’information.)
2026 Program Dates
| Program | Homestay Accommodation |
|---|---|
| July 2–31, 2026 | June 30–August 1, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Program
How many students are in the program?
We are expecting up to 60 students to participate in the program. (exact group size to be confirmed)
When does the program start and end?
Explore starts on July 2 and ends on July 31, 2026. Homestay accommodation begins June 30 and ends August 1, 2026. Students are asked to report to the college at 12:00 PM on June 30, 2026. Students will receive program information and be matched with their host families at that time. The program officially ends on the morning of August 1 when students must leave homestay. Students who plan to leave Vancouver after the morning of August 1 must arrange alternative accommodation.
Will I become bilingual during this program?
This is a five-week program, so this is not a realistic expectation. It takes many years to learn a language. But you will improve your fluency, confidence, and communication skills if you fully participate in this program.
How much emphasis will there be on reviewing/studying grammar?
Grammar will be taught in morning classes whenever students need it to communicate and succeed in an activity. When there is a specific grammar difficulty, teachers will teach a short lesson about that grammar point. However, they will NOT spend an entire morning class reviewing grammar.
Which Socio-Cultural activities will be organized by the program?
Langara’s optional, after-class activities are designed to enrich the students’ experience and help them learn more about the Lower Mainland. Options may include visits to vibrant neighbourhoods like Chinatown or the Shipyards District; trips to local museums and art galleries; outdoor activities such as local hikes, beach afternoons, or cycling around the Stanley Park seawall; and community-building events such as social mixers, game nights, and conversation clubs. While we do not organize trips to Victoria or Whistler, our staff is happy to support students planning their own trips.
Host Families
After we receive your homestay application, we will match you with a host family. Once you are placed, we will send you a letter with information about your host family.
Will there be other students in the program staying with my host family?
Some host families will accept more than one student from the program or may be hosting a student from another program. However, each student will have their own bedroom.
Your Arrival
What happens if I arrive late on the first day?
If your flight will arrive after 3:00 PM on June 30, please let us know as you may be required to take a taxi or find your own way to your host home.
What do I do if I arrive in Vancouver before the first day?
If you arrive in Vancouver before the first day, you will have to find alternate accommodations. It is not possible to begin homestay early. Below are some accommodation options:
Reservations should be made as soon as possible. Accommodation tends to fill up very quickly during the summer months so book ahead. Prices are subject to change.
How can I get from the airport to the College?
Langara College is about a 15-minute taxi ride from the airport. Taxis cost about $28.
During Your Stay
How will I travel around the city?
You will be responsible for paying for your own transportation while you are in Vancouver. The transit system in Vancouver is very efficient, but there are also alternate means of transportation. It’s a beautiful place to walk and explore!
What clothes should I bring?
Be prepared for a variety of climates and activities. The West Coast has many microclimates, and temperatures can vary from between 30°C at the beach to -10°C on top of a mountain. Bring summer clothes, but a warm jacket and rain gear will also be useful.
The West Coast offers many types of activities. If you plan to go out in the evening, you can bring something dressier, but remember: Vancouver is quite casual! You should also bring hiking boots, running shoes and a bathing suit if you plan to be active.
Other Questions
Does my Quebec/other province medical coverage work in BC?
As a non-resident in BC, you may be only partially covered. You should check if you have extended coverage and buy additional medical/travel insurance for your trip to BC.
What is the legal drinking age in BC?
19 years of age or older.
