American Language Institute

 

English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

Who Will Benefit From This Program?

The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program is designed for students and professionals at all levels who:

• plan to enter an American college or university at the undergraduate or graduate level,
• need to prepare for the TOEFL, GMAT, GRE, or other entrance examinations,
• want to succeed in the university classroom with native English speakers, or
• intend to study English for their major or career.

English for Academic Purposes
Number of weeks	12 to 18
Hours of instruction	23+ per week
Requirements	Prior instruction in English preferred
Also included	All students have access to a variety of electives, pronunciation clinics, sports and conversation clubs, language and computer labs, personalized student counseling, library, and academic advising.
Students arriving after the EAP start date may attend the International English for Communication (IEC) program until the next EAP session begins.

Program Highlights

• Academic Skill-Building
  The EAP program helps international students develop the skills needed to succeed at U.S. universities.
  
  
• University Advising
  The ALI offers advising on academic matters, careers, and university selection. Advisors help students with admission applications and write letters of recommendation.
  
  
• TOEFL Waivers
  Students applying to SDSU undergraduate and graduate degree programs and local community colleges may be eligible to receive a TOEFL waiver after completing advanced levels.
  
  
• Participation in SDSU Courses
  Advanced students may enroll in up to two regular SDSU classes with American students. Official SDSU grades, credits, and transcripts are awarded and may be transferred to other universities.
  
  
• Interaction with Native Speakers
  EAP students have the opportunity to practice their English speaking and listening skills and to improve their knowledge of American culture by interacting with native speakers inside the classroom. The ALI Student Life Office can also help students make contact with native speakers outside the classroom.

Testing and Placement

The EAP program offers English instruction in all levels from beginning to advanced. Students take various placement tests to determine their English level. They are tested in the different skill areas (listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar) and placed according to their varied needs and abilities. At the end of each term, students have the option of testing again to measure their progress.

EAP Curriculum

• After taking the EAP placement examination, students are placed individually into each of their courses according to the strength of their language skills in each course content area; such personal attention continues throughout the program.
  
  
• Significant instruction time is dedicated to developing academic English reading, writing, grammar, listening, speaking, and vocabulary skills, and strategies necessary for success in college and university coursework in English.
  
  
• Other coursework focuses on American culture, media production, and preparation for the TOEFL and other standardized examinations required for admission to undergraduate and graduate university programs.
  
  
• Students are exposed to U.S. university classroom culture and take part in campus activities on a regular basis throughout the EAP program.
  
  
• Advanced-level students have the option of substituting regular SDSU courses for some ALI classes.

New EAP Summer Study Abroad

Advanced students with English proficiency at or above 550/213/80, or the equivalent, may qualify to take 6 or 12 undergraduate units during the EAP/San Diego State University Summer term.

Program Highlights

• SDSU courses with American students
• SDSU official university transcripts
• Official SDSU transferable credit units