Intensive English Program
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Program Overview
American Language Programs
The American Language Institute (ALI) offers a range of programs for individuals looking to improve their English language skills. One of the primary programs is the Intensive English Program (IEP), which is designed to prepare students for academic work at the college or university level.
Intensive English Program (IEP)
The IEP is a year-round, 7-level program that emphasizes preparation for academic work at the college or university level. This program is offered three times a year: Fall (August), Spring (January), and Summer (May). Students may begin in any of the three sessions and continue year-round, with the Summer session being optional. All levels of English learners are welcome to apply.
Features and Benefits
The IEP offers a range of features and benefits, including:
- Experienced, well-qualified, and enthusiastic instructors
- University and academic advising
- 4-day orientation
- Access to Conversation Lab and conversation partners
- Access to Homework Lab
- Multiple social activities, such as kayaking, ice cream socials, and trips to local attractions
- Information about on-campus housing and other housing options
- Certificate ceremony upon completion of the program
Level Progression/English Proficiency Waiver
The IEP is a 7-level program, with students' placement determined at orientation. Once a student passes all classes in their level, they may continue to the next level. Students who complete Level 4 (undergraduate) may use the American Language Institute's English Proficiency Waiver to enter a CSULB undergraduate degree program or one of CSULB's community college partner programs without taking the TOEFL or IELTS exam. Similarly, students who complete Level 6 (graduate) may use the English Proficiency Waiver to enter a CSULB graduate program.
CSULB Credit Courses
Students who are in Level 5 or 6 of the Intensive English program are eligible to take CSULB university courses through Open University while still enrolled in the IEP. Level 5 students can enroll in 1 Open University course, and Level 6 students can enroll in up to 2 Open University courses. These courses are included on students' official transcripts and may be transferable to other universities.
Curriculum
The IEP consists of three core courses, with the option to choose an additional enrichment course. The curriculum is specifically tailored to prepare students for rigorous academic studies. Each course at every level has a set of specific objectives that must be met in order to continue to the next level.
Core Courses
The three core courses are:
- Reading/Writing/Vocabulary Course: This 9-hour per week class focuses on academic writing and reading skills, including essay writing, research papers, academic reading comprehension, and vocabulary building.
- Grammar Course: This 4-hour per week class aims to improve knowledge and use of various grammar forms, enhancing accuracy in both writing and speaking.
- Listening/Speaking Course: This 8-hour per week class develops academic listening comprehension and speaking skills, including giving presentations, improving lecture comprehension, learning note-taking strategies, and enhancing communication skills.
Enrichment Options
Students may choose a 2-hour per week enrichment class, such as:
- Vocabulary
- Pronunciation
- TOEFL Prep
- IELTS Prep
- English for Business
- English for Math
- Study Skills
Class availability depends on the semester.
Sample Schedule
The sample schedule for the IEP is as follows:
- Fall and Spring: 23 hours of instruction per week
- Summer: 25 hours of instruction per week
- All classes are held on the CSULB university campus
A typical weekly schedule includes: | Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 9AM | Reading, Writing, & Vocabulary | Grammar | Reading, Writing, & Vocabulary | Grammar | Reading, Writing, & Vocabulary | | 10AM | | | | | | | 11AM | Enrichment | Enrichment | | | | | Lunch | | | | | | | 1PM | Listening & Speaking | | | | | | 2PM | | | | | | | 3PM | *Conversation Lab (Optional) | | | | | | | *Homework Lab (Optional) | | | | | | 4PM | | | | | |
Conversation Lab and Homework Lab
- Conversation Lab: An optional lab where students can meet with and interact with fluent speakers of English, helping to improve conversation skills.
- Homework Lab: An optional lab where students can meet one-on-one with a tutor to ask questions and receive guidance on classes or assignments.
Program Details
- Length: 16 weeks (1 semester)
- Orientation: August 20, 2026
- Dates: August 24 - December 11, 2026
- Housing: $7,000
- Books: $200 - $300
- Insurance: To be determined
- Tuition: $5,980
- Location: In-person at CSULB
This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and immersive English language learning experience, preparing them for academic success at the college or university level.