OLBI embodies a forward-looking vision where excellence and innovation in teaching are combined with a steadfast commitment to the Francophonie and bilingualism. Through its internationally recognized research center (CCERBAL), OLBI plays a key role in advancing pedagogical practices and furthering research in bilingualism.
Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (OLBI)
The Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (OLBI) is a center of excellence in language education and a cornerstone of the University of Ottawa.
OLBI offers language courses for all levels
From beginner to advanced, students from all faculties may enrol in French as a Second Language (FLS) and English as a Second Language (ESL) courses. Staff and professors have access to FLS and ESL courses through the Language support program for employees. OLBI also offers accelerated FLS and ESL programs.
Bilingualism opens doors
Undergraduate programs
MA in bilingualism studies
Second Language Courses
Language support services
CCERBAL Research centre
The Canadian Centre for Studies and Research on Bilingualism and Language Planning (CCERBAL) fulfills the research mandate of the Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute. The Centre’s key research themes include language teaching and learning, new technologies, language assessment, and language policy, including family language policy.
A Conversation with Nicolas Guichon and Marie-Josée Hamel:
The Trajectory of an International Collaboration
Jun 16, 2026 — 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (OLBI) is pleased to invite you to its next event titled A Conversation with Nicolas Guichon and Marie-Josée Hamel: The Trajectory of an International Collaboration, presented by professors Nicolas Guichon (Université Lumière Lyon 2) and Marie-Josée Hamel (University of Ottawa).
Bilingualism
Persistence, resilience and determination: Frandley Paul, Master of Arts graduate in Bilingualism Studies
Frandley Paul often wondered about the gap between the discourse on bilingualism in Canada and the lived reality in some workplaces. He was particular…
Language learning
uOttawa English Experience program | Summer Language Immersion
The Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (OLBI) is excited to present the uOttawa English Experience program this August!
Language learning
New OLBI Family Language Advice Service (FLAS)
Are you raising a bilingual or multilingual child? Do you have questions about your child’s language development, socialization, or school language? A…
Contact us
Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (OLBI)
70 Laurier Avenue East
Room 130
Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5
Canada
Tel.: 613-562-5743
[email protected]
Office hours
September to May
Monday to Friday
9 am to 12 pm
1 pm to 4 pm
June to August
Monday to Friday
9 am to 12 pm
1 pm to 3:30 pm