English for Academic Preparation
Study English in San Francisco, America's Most International City
The English for Academic Preparation (EAP) program gives you an opportunity to study in beautiful San Francisco, California, and learn English in an intensive language program that emphasizes university preparation and academic skills.
Features
- Well-trained, enthusiastic teachers and small classes with individual attention to all students
- A curriculum that gives you strategies to understand and use English at an American university
- TOEFL waivers for qualified students applying to SF State undergraduate degree programs
- Advisors to help you apply to SF State and assist you with immigration questions, academics and American life
- Student activities to help you enjoy your city and American culture
Gateway: English + University Credit Studies
- Improve your English & academic skills for university success
- Take an SF State course for credit
- Receive support to understand & complete your university course assignments
Conditional Admission
- For international students who are academically qualified to apply for admission to SF State, but have an insufficient TOEFL score
- Apply to SF State after deadlines have passed
- Receive assistance with your application
TOEFL Waivers
- Two possible TOEFL waivers
- Either waiver will meet SF State English proficiency requirements
- You do not need to complete the highest ALI level to receive either TOEFL waiver
Online Courses
Offered Online for Spring 2021
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ALI courses and SF State courses are offered online, with live instruction using Zoom.
About the Program
What Students Say
Emily (Minling), China
“The English for Academic Preparation program at SF State is the best language program I have taken. It helped me to improve my reading, speaking, listening and writing skills all at once. I also got to know new students from all over the world, and we had a good time studying together and supporting each other. The program is tailor-made for students who plan to attend an undergraduate or graduate program at a university in the near future.”
Sota, Japan
Sota built his English skills at the American Language Institute, then went on to earn a certificate in our International Business program, where he developed the knowledge and skills to create his own startup and become a global leader.
Elena, Russia
“The American Language Institute is the best English program that I have ever attended. Seriously. Everything there was flexible, but structured. My class had six people from different countries, and everybody was very goal oriented.”