Learn English in United States

The USA is always among the top destinations to study English among students from all over the world. People go there for different reasons. Some want to obtain the American accent, some are attracted by the geographical diversity of the country and want to combine travelling with language learning. Some heard about the quality and variety of English courses in the USA.

• The Benefits of English Courses

  Going to the USA as a tourist and as a language student are two different things. As a tourist you may immerse into the culture and the language, but your knowledge will remain shallow. Taking an English course in an American language school opens new opportunities:

  • Speed up the language acquisition. Classroom is the best environment to practice new vocabulary before using it with strangers.
  • Get the American accent. American accent is one of the hardest things to acquire. The easiest way to do it – have lots of listening and speaking practice with American teachers, who will correct you each time you sound like a foreigner.
  • Prepare for English language exams. The exams like TOEFL and IELTS are obligatory for those who pursues higher education in American colleges.
  • Boost your career. A certificate for completing an English course in the USA will serve as a valuable supplement to your CV, due to the great number of well-reputed language schools.
• Types of English Courses in the USA

  Let’s take a closer look at the types of courses available in the USA.

  Courses for kids

  Language schools in the USA offer two types of programmes for kids: language camps and general courses.

  Language camps, such as Zuma Fordham University Summer Camp, are perfect for the kids, who want to brush up their English before studies. The camps are half-a-day learning sessions with excursions, sports activities and workshops afterwards. The age range of students is between 8 and 17 years.

  General courses are for the teenagers between 16 and 18 years. The classes are held according to a schedule five days a week. Just like at a usual school, except for the fact that all the classes are English.

  Examples of schools: EC, Miami; EF, New York; Kings, Los Angeles.

  Courses for Adults

  General English. This course suits those who want to brush up their knowledge and get skills in all aspects of everyday English. You’ll be able to speak, read and write about the topics of general interest, understand the basic grammar and acquire American accent.

  Examples of schools: EC, Miami; EF, New York; Kings, Los Angeles.

  Business English. Need English for work? Take a special business course. Here you’ll acquire business-related vocabulary, learn how to hold negotiations, practice both oral and written speech. Such courses require a certain entry proficiency level. Usually it’s B2 (Upper-Intermediate) or higher. So, if you feel your English doesn’t come up to the requirements, take a general English course first.

  Examples of schools: LSI Downtown, L.A.; Eurocentres, San Diego; Kaplan International English, New York.

  Intensive preparatory courses. Such courses are designed for those who need to take English proficiency exams, such as TOEFL and IELTS. Be prepared for a serious academic load, as you’ll do numerous tests, practice effective reading and essay writing skills.

  Examples of schools: FLS Boston Commons; EF, New York; King,s Los Angeles.

  Family courses. If you want to spend a quality time as a family and acquire English skills, a family course is exactly what you need. Classes for parents and children are organized in the same school building, so family members can share impressions about the classes during breaks. What’s more, after the academic part the fun part begins with sport, art activities and excursions.

  Examples of schools: Brooklyn School of Languages, New York.

• What else to consider before the trip

  Visa. If you apply for a visa for the first time, better consult a visa manager LinguaTrip.com how to fill up the form, collect and translate all the documents and register for an appointment at the consulate.

  Accommodation. You can choose one of the three variants: stay with a host family, live in a school residences or find lodging independently. Choose the first variant, if you want to quickly adapt to living abroad and start practicing English for casual conversations. School residences is the cheapest variant and will suit party people who want to mix with international students. The last option is the most expensive, but is perfect for those who value privacy. The most popular source of finding a place to stay independently is Airbnb.

  Money. Remember to change your local money for dollars before the departure. Usually this way is cheaper. Also, take some money for excursions and entry tickets to museums or theaters. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, so make sure you’ll have enough money for cultural breaks between classes.

  Local SIM-card. All the schools will provide you with Internet connection, but you may not always have it outside the classroom. So, if you and your kids want to stay connected during the entire stay in the country, a local SIM-card is a must.