submit english language waiver

The ELW process exists for the rare cases where an admission applicant has extensive and demonstrable ability in English but does not fall into one of the GGR-approved categories for meeting English language minimum requirements. 

Applicants who have taken EAL Testing but failed to achieve minimum scores, or have expired results that cannot be verified without other evidence of their English-language ability, will not be considered for an ELW.

1. Application Submission 
   An applicant who does not meet the English language minimum requirements outlined in the Graduate General Regulations (GGRs) submits a complete admission application.
2. Departmental Review
   The academic unit reviews the applicant pool and selects the candidate for recommendation for admission.
3. ELW Form Completion
   The academic unit asks the applicant to complete the ELW form, ensuring all relevant English language experience is included. Supporting documentation (e.g., published papers, book chapters) should be provided where applicable.*
4. Unit Assessment
   The academic unit reviews the ELW form and supporting materials to determine whether the applicant demonstrates sufficient English language proficiency.
       If supported: submit the ELW request to Graduate Studies at the same time as the admission recommendation (see Step 5).
       If not supported: submit a recommendation for conditional admission, requiring the applicant to complete EAL testing and meet the university’s minimum scores prior to starting their program (no need to send the ELW request to Graduate Studies).
5. Submission to Graduate Studies
   For applicants recommended for admission with an ELW: submit the admission recommendation in Slate and include a note indicating that an ELW request has been submitted. Send the signed ELW form and all supporting documentation via a ticket to gradstdy@sfu.ca
6. Graduate Studies Review
   Graduate Studies will review the request and follow up with the academic unit if clarification is needed.
       If approved: no further proof of English language proficiency is required.
       If not approved: the applicant will typically be offered conditional admission (see Conditions/Alternatives above).