Proficiency in English is an important prerequisite for U.S. academic programs. Most U.S. degree programs require a minimum TOEFL iBT score somewhere between 79 and 90, or similar demonstration of advanced English proficiency. Even to grant admission conditional on further English language study, U.S. universities typically require reaching at least a high intermediate level of English.

Because of the cost for U.S.-based study and what often proves to be greater difficulty in obtaining a visa for English language study only, it is recommended that students begin their English language training at home.

Most AMIDEAST offices offer English language programs. Our programs provide excellent preparation for academic or professional goals that require proficiency in English.

Find AMIDEAST English language training near you.

In general, when trying to determine English language training quality, look for--

• Teachers who are native speakers of English and/or who have degrees and certifications related to teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL/TEFL/TESL)
• Placement of students in different classes based on level of English proficiency.
• Use of tests that are widely recognized as internationally valid to assess student English proficiency, such as the Institutional TOEFL (ITP) for academic English or the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) for English used in international professional settings.
• Small class enrollments
• At least fifteen hours of classroom instruction per week plus computer language labs and/or other resources and activities for further learning
• A focus on preparation to match your eventual goals, whether that means a focus on English for academic study or on English for business

Beyond going to class, many less formal strategies can also be used to improve your English including such simple ideas as reading English-language books, talking with native English speakers, and watching television and films in English.

English language learning opportunities also exist on the Web, including the new, free online language learning community LiveMocha (www.livemocha.com) as well as distance courses offered for a fee by universities and other sponsors.

Once you feel reasonably confident in your English, you may want to test your knowledge by actually taking an academic class in your planned field of study in English. In recent years, a number of U.S. universities have begun putting their course content on the Web, often complete with audio and/or video recordings of classes, allowing anyone to pursue independent study without paying any fee. While degree credit is not awarded for completion of such courses, they can provide a good challenge and a better sense of what U.S. classes are like. Some “Open Courseware” and other free content sites include those sponsored by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (ocw.mit.edu), Yale University (open.yale.edu/courses), and the University of California at Berkeley (youtube.com/ucberkeley).

If you are interested in English language study in the United States, a directory of programs can be found at http://intensiveenglishusa.org/. Check whether universities from which you would like to earn a degree may also offer classes or other support for advanced-level English learning—many, if not most, do.