Adult Learners

Who is considered an Adult Learner?

Students born before July 1, 2006 are classified as Adult Learners.

English language proficiency is mandatory for success in our courses.

  • Our courses are best suited for students with strong English skills.  English Language Learners can enroll in New Westminster Online Learning courses only if they have completed English Foundations 7 or higher, or if an assessment places them at a Grade 11 English level or above.  Students who are still learning English are encouraged to take classroom‑based courses.  
  • We offer online high‑school grade 11-12 courses, as well as math upgrading. Students who need English Language Learning courses or prefer in‑person classes will need to register with the Adult Learning Centre.

Is online learning right for me? 

  • Online learning is suitable for students who can maintain a steady pace through their courses and work independently.  Review our FAQ to ensure online learning is the right fit for you.
  • Our online courses are not streamlined courses.  They follow Ministry of Education curriculum and take 100-120 hours to complete. For the average student, this is between 2-4 months.

How can I ensure there are no delays in processing my registration?

  • Registrations are processed in the order they are received.  Processing takes 1-2 weeks.  Please plan accordingly.
  • Incomplete registration emails will not be processed. You will be asked to resend your entire registration package, and your new registration will be placed back into the queue in the order it is received.  To avoid delays, be sure to follow all steps and include all required ID.
  • Submit everything (filled and signed registration form, transcripts, and ID) in one email.  Do not send multiple emails.
  • Do not send your registration package more than once.  This just creates more delays as it clutters our mailbox.
  • If you were previously enrolled with New Westminster Online Learning, you must still submit a new registration package (including updated ID) for the current school year. However, if you are a current student adding an additional course, you may skip the ID step (step 3).

 What transcripts do you need?

  • Include relevant transcripts or assessment results with your registration.  If you know your PEN (Personal Education Number), make sure to put it on your form.
  • If you have Canadian post-secondary transcripts, attach them to your registration email.
  • We do not accept transcripts from other countries, nor do we accept LINC, Duolingo or IELTS scores.
  • Students with no academic history in BC will be required to take an assessment.  Students who require an assessment will be charged a $25 non‑refundable assessment fee.

Our courses are closed for part of the summer.

  • Our courses are closed for summer break between July 17th and September 9th.  Students can resume unfinished courses when they reopen on September 9th.   Please keep these closure dates in mind when planning your courses.

How to Register:

Step 1:  Check Course Availability

  • Review the course list to ensure the course(s) you want are offered and that you meet the prerequisites.
  • If you’re unsure which courses you need, leave the course selection blank and our advisor will assist you with course selection.
  • If you have not attended school in Canada, you will be scheduled for an in‑person assessment. We will contact you to book the assessment when we process your form.

Step 2: Download and Complete the Registration Form

Step 3: Prepare Your ID and Supporting Documents

  • Attach your required ID documents (three total, including at least one photo ID). The address on your ID must be current and must match the address on your registration form. Click the link to carefully review the requirements.
  • Attach any other relevant documents, such as transcripts.
  • Do NOT paste ID images into the email body. Only clear scans or photos will be accepted.
  • HEIC files cannot be opened—please convert them to JPG or PDF.

Step 4: Email Your Registration Package

  • Send your completed registration form and all required documents to: onlinelearning@sd40.bc.ca
  • Use the subject line: E-registration – Last Name, First Name

Step 5: Wait for Confirmation

If your registration package is complete and all documents are correct, you will receive:

  • A confirmation email, and
  • Login instructions within 1-2 weeks.