Provincial Education Policy · British Columbia
Free adult upgrading and English classes in BC
Facts checked 7 September 2026
Grade 11 and 12 courses and English classes are free at BC's public colleges.
Funding Amount
100% free tuition
Amounts and rules change. Confirm on the official page. Last checked 7 September 2026.
Intake & Deadline
Every term / Continuous
Program Overview
Since 2017, BC residents pay no tuition for Adult Basic Education, which is high school level courses, or for English Language Learning at public colleges and school districts. Pathway programs at 11 colleges bundle the exact courses you need to get into health, early childhood education, trades and tech programs.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Who qualifies
- You live in BC and are a domestic student.
- You are an adult (19 or older, or out of high school).
- Any level, from basic literacy to Grade 12.
COVERAGE & EXPENSES
What it pays
- Tuition is free.
- You may still pay student fees and books; ask the college.
- The Adult Upgrading Grant can cover those costs for low-income students.
APPLICATION PROCESS
How to apply
- 1
Pick a public college near you or your school district's adult education centre.
- 2
Book an assessment; they place you at the right level.
- 3
Register. No tuition is charged.
IMPORTANT DATES
Deadline
- Intakes every term; some courses start any time.
Official Sources & Verification
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these courses count for college entry?
Yes. They are the prerequisites colleges ask for.
Is it free at private schools?
No. Public colleges and school districts only.