In the series on special topics, today we talk about English as a Second Language (ESL) programme in the United States. Many educational institutions in United States offer courses on academic English for students starting their higher education at a university or college in the country. These institutions also offer English courses for tourists or […]
In the series on special topics, today we talk about English as a Second Language (ESL) programme in the United States.
Many educational institutions in United States offer courses on academic English for students starting their higher education at a university or college in the country. These institutions also offer English courses for tourists or immigrants interested in learning the language and culture of the United States. English language programmes in the United States are also sometimes referred as “ESOL Programmes,” or English for Speakers of Other Languages.
For students interested in learning English or improving their English language skills, there are multiple factors to consider while making decisions regarding English language learning in the United States.
English language courses in the United States range from beginner level for those who have never studied the language, to advanced courses for students preparing for academic study or employment in the United States. Some language programmes focus exclusively on English for academic purposes. Other programmes serve as preparation for specific examinations or English skills for the workplace.
There are different types of ESL Programmes available for students. The most common types of ESL programme offered in the United States are Intensive English Programmes (IEP) or American Language and Culture Programmes (ALCP).
Intensive English Programmes (IEPs) can be taken for personal or professional reasons and not for academic credit. These may also be taken to prepare for US college or university admission. Such programmes include classes designed for any level of English proficiency and usually require 20-30 hours per week of intensive English language study. The IEPs are offered at both US colleges and universities and at independent English language institutions.
American Language and Culture Programmes (ALCPs), on the other hand, are usually taken for academic credit to prepare for, or as part of, a US college or university degree programme. These programmes often require an intermediate or advanced level of English language proficiency before enrollment. Such programmes may be taken to improve a specific academic skill, such as reading, writing, or grammar. ALCPs can assist students with adjustment to US culture and campus life.
Some US colleges and universities offer “bridge” or “pathway” programmes that allow students to build English language proficiency while also earning academic credit towards their degrees and/or that facilitate direct transfer into an academic programme after achieving sufficient language proficiency.
Students interested in ESL programmes should do some research to identify the English language programme that is the best fit for their goals. They should also make sure the programme they are considering is accredited.
In next week’s column, we will share with our audience information about accreditation of ESL programmes.
Monika Setia, Regional Officer and EducationUSA Adviser at the United States-India Educational Foundation based at the US Consulate General Hyderabad.
Please visit https://educationusa.state.gov/centers/educationusa-usief-hyderabad for more information
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Q&A
Q1. I am a law student and would like to know how I can practice law in the United States? – Umesh Tiwari
To practice law in the United States, after completing a degree in the field of law from a US institution, students must pass the bar examination and other requirements in the State where they wish to work. Juris doctor (JD), Master of Law (LLM), and other Master’s degrees (MJ, MCL, MCJ, etc.) are some degree considerations in the field of law for international students. The eligibility requirements to take the bar exam vary by State and students should check the State-specific requirements before applying for the exam. You may find more information about bar exams on the website of the American Bar Association https://www.americanbar.org/
Q2. My son is in 11th grade and we are considering sending him to the United States for his bachelor’s level study. We heard about the AP exams – can you please share what are these? – RS Rao
The SAT Reasoning Test, SAT Subject Tests, the ACT, and Advanced Placement (AP) Exams are various test options for undergraduate (bachelor’s programme) applicants to US universities. Advanced Placement is a programme in the United States and Canada created by the College Board which offers college-level curricula and examinations to high school students.
AP Exams allow students to earn course credit hours (depending on the test scores) that in turn may help them get waivers for introductory college courses, fulfil their general education requirements, and make them eligible for upper level courses. The test usually lasts around three hours and contains both multiple choice and free-response questions. AP Exams are offered in 34 subjects, in the areas of Art, English, History and Social Sciences, Mathematics and Computer Science, Sciences, and World Languages and Cultures.
Please check (https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/apcourse) for the list of subjects under each area. Many secondary schools outside the United States offer authorised AP courses. You can also take an AP test without taking an AP class. But if you decide to take an exam without taking a class, you might want to check out the College Board website for information about how the test is structured and what it tests. The test is scored on a scale of 1-5 and offered once a year in the month of May.
For further information on scheduled test dates in India, please visit: (https://international.collegeboard.org/prepare-to-study-in-the-us/ap-in-india)
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