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Choosing an English Program in the U.S.A.
Type of program, accomodation, and program duration are some of the most important aspects to consider when selecting an ESL program

Every year, more than 50,000 international students come to the United States to study English. With many options to choose from, there are a variety of points to consider as you choose your English program.

Types of Programs
A wide variety of English language courses can be found across the United States. You can attend:

  • General, intensive English programs that will improve your English in all areas of the language (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).

  • Exam preparation programs that will help you prepare for college entrance exams (TOEFL® iBT or IELTS) or for certificates or diplomas that will improve your career choices (Cambridge exams or TOEIC).

  • Academic English programs that will help you prepare you for university studies by improving your English in academic contexts and emphasizing study techniques (note-taking, discussion skills, academic reading and writing, and research techniques).

  • Business English programs that will help you acquire the English needed for all aspects of business (meetings, negotiations, social skills, telephone skills, report writing, etc.).

  • Certificate programs that will help you acquire the English needed for a variety of professions (law, marketing, management, finance, etc.).

  • Teacher Training Programs that will help you acquire or refresh the English needed to teach English in your country (language, methodology, teaching techniques, etc.).

Components to Consider
Once you’ve decided the type of course(s) you’re interested in attending, you need to find a program with the schedule and components that best match your goals. Points to consider are:

  • Short-term courses are typically offered in four-week sessions. Some programs offer these courses year-round with start dates scheduled every week or month, while others offer these courses several times a year.

  • Quarter or semester courses (10 to 15 weeks) are typically offered in college- or university-based programs with start dates scheduled several times a year.

  • Class size varies among the programs. While some courses may have a maximum of 8–12 students/class, others may have a maximum of 16–20.

  • Number of levels of a program can vary from 6–12 with a range from absolute beginners to very advanced.

  • Fees differ from program to program. Some programs include tuition, books, materials, medical insurance, student activities fees, and lab fees, while others charge separately for each item.

  • Social activities and sports are sometimes offered in conjunction with the institution or program. Most ESL programs offer a wide variety of activities, sports, and leisure programs that vary with the region and the time of year. Be sure to look for a program where you can pursue your interests and hobbies or partake in new ones.

Accommodations
Where you live while you’re studying English is a very important part of your language experience in the United States. Most programs offer a choice of accommodations that can include:

  • Homestays. This experience will provide you an opportunity to live with an American family. Depending on the program, you may have a private bedroom or share with a family member or another student. Meals are included and you can sometimes choose breakfast only; breakfast and dinner (half-board); or breakfast, lunch, and dinner (full-board).

  • Student residences. English programs located on college campuses often offer accommodations in student residences. Depending on the program, you'll typically share a bedroom with another student or students and have meals in the commons.

  • Hotels or apartments. Some programs provide information on hotels or apartments for those students who are looking for short-term accommodations or independent living.

The U.S. is the perfect destination to develop your English skills, and you’ll quickly learn the benefits of completely immersing yourself in the language and the culture. Begin searching for your English language program now by exploring the programs featured in this section.

 

Alexis Lasheras is the director of the International Center for American English in La Jolla, California. She served as the 2006–07 Vice President for Outreach for the American Association of Intensive English Programs (AAIEP), an organization with nearly 300 members that provides a great variety of intensive English language programs, accommodations, and student services throughout the United States. For a list of members and information about their programs, please visit the AAIEP’s Web site.