We are a community! At CCI-LEX you will have the opportunity to take part in many different activities, learn about Edmonton and Canada, and make lifelong friends.
At CCI-LEX, our mission is to promote personal growth for adults through English language instruction and the exchange of cultural knowledge.
So, how do we exchange cultural knowledge?
With fun and exciting events, of course!
By organizing a variety of extra learning opportunities, and social activities and events both at CCI-LEX and in and around Edmonton, we help our students learn more about our city, build friendships with their diverse classmates, and more fully experience Edmonton and Canadian culture. And many of these activities are low-cost or free!
Typical events include:
Learn English in one of Canada’s friendliest and most vibrant cities at the Edmonton-based Cultural Connections Institute – The Learning Exchange!
CCI-LEX is located in the heart of downtown Edmonton where you can study English as Second Language in the capital city of Alberta, a bustling and energetic western Canadian province.
With miles of gorgeous trails framing the scenic North Saskatchewan river, Edmonton is known as one of Canada’s greenest cities. Experience our warm green summers and scenic, snowy winters by exploring the trails or visiting one of the city’s dozens of parks.
Looking for something a little more posh? Edmonton is home to a number of world class museums, restaurants, cafes, boutiques and attractions such as the West Edmonton Mall. More of a night owl? Whyte Avenue is a vibrant shopping district, with many unique shops and clubs featuring live music, dancing or karaoke.
Make Edmonton your Canadian home while you learn English as a Second Language at CCI-LEX!
Edmonton is often called Festival City, and it’s no wonder! Travellers come from all around the world to experience some of our most popular events.
These events include:
If you’re thinking about learning English in a new country, consider Canada!
In Canada, you can enjoy natural beauty, a diverse population and a safe, welcoming environment – all while earning a high quality education that’s respected worldwide.
The Canadian education system is highly respected around the world and the cost of tuition for university and college programs is much lower than many other countries. Let CCI-LEX be your springboard to further education in Canada.
Canadians enjoy a high standard of living and are known for the welcoming attitude they extend toward all visitors. Interested in trying a local beer at one of our pubs? Don’t be surprised if a local turns to you to comment on the hockey game that’s probably showing on TV!
Canada truly is a beautiful country from east to west. Its landscape varies widely from one end of the country to the other, including ocean coastlines and the wondrous Rocky Mountains that are home to world class hiking trails.
While Edmonton is a beautiful and vibrant city, it’s not the only exciting spot to see in Alberta. In Edmonton, we are fortunate to be close enough to some of Canada’s most beautiful attractions.
If you’re looking for somewhere to travel to over the weekend, why not try one of these wonderful destinations?
Do you have a general question about life in Edmonton?
“I need to take the bus across town, but I don’t know how to plan my route.”
“How can I get a license for my pet?”
“How can I make a complaint about noise or a bad road?”
The City of Edmonton provides a very helpful hotline with qualified professionals who are happy to help answer any questions you have about city programs and services. To get in touch, dial 311 on your phone, or visit their website.
Do you need information about social services or community resources?
“How can I find childcare?”
“Where can I volunteer or donate my used clothing?”
“I’m having trouble with money for food, rent, and other costs”
211 is a resource line that can help with day-to-day needs and coping with stressful situations. They can connect you to a full range of non-emergency social, health and government services in your community. Many operators speak other languages. Phone 211 to ask your questions. You can also visit the 211 website.
Edmonton is generally a very safe city, however, as with any place in the world, it’s not perfect.
If you are ever in danger, dial 911 for Edmonton’s police, fire and ambulance services. 911 is only for emergencies.
Are you planning your travel to Edmonton? Congratulations! This is an exciting time for you.
Homestays
A homestay is when a student or traveler lives as a guest in a local family’s home.
At CCI-LEX, we do not organize homestays for our students, but here is a helpful website:
Short-term Stays
One very affordable option for a short-term stay is a hostel. Check out Hostelling International – Edmonton! They are located in one of the most popular shopping and dining areas in the city, and are just a short transit ride away from CCI-LEX! Friendly environment with shared kitchen and common areas to meet people from around the world. There are discounted rates available for CCI-LEX students – contact us for more information.
MacEwan University is another great option for individual or group accommodations. They allow both short and long-term stays and have a variety of student rooms available May through August, with Hotel Rooms and Suites available year-round. Rates are reasonable, rooms are private, and there are discounts for long-term stays.
Renting
If you are looking for a room, apartment or house to rent in Edmonton, here are some helpful websites:
Edmonton offers a variety of different banks and credit unions, all of which offer similar services.
Because Edmonton is such a multi-cultural city, most banks will have employees who speak many different languages.
If you are worried about being able to communicate with the employees at the bank, you can try calling before you go in to ask if they have any staff who speak your native language.
Here are some of Edmonton’s most popular banks:
Many banks have special programs for new immigrants and international students. Check their website or ask about newcomer supports.
Emergency
If you have a medical emergency, dial 911 for an ambulance. If it is not an emergency, do not call 911, as you may be handed a large fine.
Medical Centre Walk-In Clinic
If you need to see a doctor but it is not an emergency, local walk-in clinics provide doctors that are available to see patients without appointments.
In Edmonton, walk-in clinics are often called Medicentres. Visit their website to find the clinic closest to you.
Alberta Health Link
If you have a health problem but are not sure if you should be worried, you can speak with a nurse on Alberta’s health hotline.
To get in touch, dial 811 on your phone, or visit their website.
Do you need someone to talk to? Do you need help with social services?
Connect with the Canadian Mental Health Association.
To get in touch, dial 211 on your phone, or visit their website.
In Canada, only a trained lawyer is allowed to provide legal counsel.
If you have any concerns about the law, here are some low cost, helpful organizations to contact:
Canadian law restricts CCI-LEX on providing any advice on immigration.
To speak to a professional about immigrating to Canada, visit the Government of Canada’s website.
Do you have a problem or complaint that you need help with?
At CCI-LEX, we care about our students and whether you have a problem with one of your classes at CCI-LEX, or need help getting settled in Edmonton, we are here to help. Contact us Today.
