Before applying
There are a few things you should know before completing the online application through Apply Alberta.
Upgrading courses are offered in 3 terms so you have flexible options while upgrading. Most courses are offered during the daytime, with some evening and online options available so you can work around your personal and professional commitments.
Fall Term: September to mid-December (15 weeks in total)
Winter Term: January to end of April (15 weeks in total)
Spring Term: May to end of July (courses are condensed and move at a rapid pace in this 12-week term).
Course Prerequisites (pdf)
- Review the document to see which courses have prerequisites
- Note that a GED will not be accepted for the entrance requirement or for required course prerequisites
Students are not permitted to enrol into courses at the same listed times.
Carefully review each class delivery mode to ensure your schedule suitability for the term.
NAIT upgrading final marks are not reported to the Alberta Ministry of Education to fulfill any high school diploma requirements.
NAIT does not have a mature student policy. Course and entrance prerequisites are required.
Final exams are written in the last week of each term. Additional course work will be required outside of class time.
All courses are 5 credits.
It’s important to plan your tuition and finances. Tuition deadline dates are posted in your MyNAIT student portal for the term of studies. Full fees will need to be paid by the deadline, no matter who is paying, or you will be cancelled.
2022-23 Tuition Fee Schedule (pdf)
Funding Options
Funding is available to upgrading students who qualify.
Investigate your eligibility and how to apply on the ESL and Academic Upgrading Funding website.
Enrolled in two upgrading courses per term will qualify you for full-time funding eligibility through the Foundational Learning Assistance Program.
Academic Upgrading students are not eligible for student loans.
Students relying on funding must be prepared to pay for courses in full by the tuition deadline, as funding will need time for processing is applying late.
If you are being sponsored other than through Foundational Learning Assistance Program funding, the company will have to complete the Third Party Sponsorship degree, diploma and certificate form and submit.
Testimonials
“My gratitude [goes] to all Academic Upgrading people, who help[ed] me from the year 2019 until now. I received an invitation for the interview in my program, without the help of each one of you, I wouldn't be here. I learn[ed] so much from Academic Upgrading not only in academics but also in life in general. I am thirsty for knowledge, and all the great instructors were able to help me to fill my jar with their knowledge, understanding, and wisdom from their life experiences. The Academic Upgrading admin also help[ed] me with my questions, payment, and registration promptly. Each one of you has a part in my journey, your little help is counted because now I can reach a higher place.”
Maria Inggriani, 2022
“I was a student in the Math 30-2 asynchronous course. The instructor was very accessible, professional, and helpful throughout the course. As a full-time working mother with two toddlers, this course gave me the freedom of completing it anytime and anywhere.
I was afraid in the beginning that the video presentations would be hard to understand, so I even talked to a tutor to get help. I soon learnt, I had to cancel the tutor, because the videos were very clear and understandable.
I have already recommended it to a couple of my friends.”
Pawan Billing, 2021
Technology Requirements
All Academic Upgrading courses (regardless of delivery option) have recommended minimum technology standards, as Moodle, online textbooks, and some assignments require this.
Computer, laptop, or tablet
Device must meet the following:
- Wi-Fi connection: Wireless N, AC or better
- Windows 10
- Memory: 4GB RAM minimum or better
- Antivirus Protection
- Adequate bandwidth
Virtually Online and Self-Guided Courses
Requires a webcam with microphone - internal, external, or smartphone can be used as a camera with microphone.
Technology support is available to students. This will include access to computer labs at the Main Campus in several buildings, public Wi-Fi at Main Campus, limited loanable technology from the NAIT Library and free software and resources from NAIT's Learning Services. The ITS Help Desk will also be available to troubleshoot.
Not Recommended
Chromebooks, smartphones, and iPads are not recommend as a main device.
Technology - Free Downloadable and Software Tutorials
Refer to the website link below and select the "Access Online-learning Resources" in the orange ribbon at the top of the page.
NAIT's Learning Services provides all students with various information related to students achieving success.
This includes free software and free software tutorials, so that students can be well prepared for the technology being used in all upgrading courses, regardless if you are attending on-campus classes or taking virtually-online classes.
Access Learning Services
Math & Writing Modules
Refer to the website link below and select the tab "Learning Modules".
You are able to review Math 10C and English writing concepts.
Access Learning Services