At Austin ESL School, we offer three ESL Programs: full-time program, part-time program, TOEFL course, and customized courses. All F-1 students must enroll in the full-time program which consists of a total of 18 hours of instruction a week. The part-time option is for students that do not have F-1 visa requirements and/or financial means to take full-time courses. The TOEFL course was designed to help students prepare for this widely accepted standardized test of English proficiency. Customized courses are ideal for families and groups of friends who are unable to attend our regular courses.
Full-time Program:
All international (F-1) students are required to enroll in the full-time program of study. The full-time program offers 14-16 hours of classroom instruction and 3-4 hours of language lab & electives instruction each week. Language lab will be taught and guided by an instructor. Students are able to complete one level of proficiency in a 15-week semester. Electives will be an expansion of the core language skills such as debate for listening & speaking or tourism for vocabulary & writing. A full-time student can complete the entire non-academic program in approximately 20 months. If a student decides to take the upper advanced Level 5, it takes approximately 24 months to complete.
Language Lab: The language lab days are used for teachers to reinforce difficult topics. These days can be used in the computer lab for guided instruction through MyEnglishLab.com or various websites teachers find helpful for a particular topic. For the higher levels, the computer labs can be used in conjunctions with electives such as research and group projects with teacher supervision.
The fifth level or Level 4 has been specifically designed for students whose goal is to continue their education at a U.S. college or university. In order to place in Level 4, students must show proficiency in all concepts covered in the four lower levels that we offer (Fundamentals, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3). Reading, writing, and vocabulary skills in Level 4 are taught through research and academic essay writing. Speaking and listening are taught through lectures, guided debates, and presentations. Advanced grammar concepts are reviewed and practiced extensively in all skill areas. After successfully completing this level with an overall grade of 85% or higher, a student has the option to successfully complete and graduate from our ESL Program or they can continue their English Education with Level 5.
The sixth level or Upper Level 5 will aid in covering a more in-depth study and practice of (a) Academic & University readiness English or a (b) Proficient Real Live Situational readiness English.
Part-time Program:
Our part-time program offers a minimum of 6 hours of mandatory classroom instruction and an up to an optional 12 hours per week. Students would have the option to enroll in any of the available opened classes. If a class is not available at their level, they may choose to enroll in private sessions before entering a class. Students are able to complete 1 level of proficiency in two 15-week semesters. Therefore, a part-time student can complete the non-academic program in approximately 40 months. If a student decides to take the academic advanced course, it takes approximately 48 months to complete.
*Although, full-time is the recommended plan at ACES, this part-time option is for students that do not have F1 Visa requirements, the allocated schedule, and/or financial means to take full-time courses.TOEFL:
The TOEFL® test is a highly respected English language proficiency test, helping millions of students like you attend English-speaking institutes all over the world. The TOEFL test measures the ability of non-native English speakers to use and understand English at the university level. ACES TOEFL course was carefully designed for anyone who wishes to study at an English-speaking university or program. Our preparatory course can be taken stating from Level 3 and on. It will teach you useful test taking strategies, and provide you with realistic testing experiences, which include a diagnostic test to establish your baseline performance, plus a set of full-length practice exams to prepare you for your test day. It is a primary focus at Level 5a.
Customized Courses:
At ACES, we offer customized courses for groups of 5 or more students with flexible start dates, length, structure, and content. Offering customized courses allows us to work with your schedule and specific learning needs. These courses are ideal for families and groups of friends who are unable to attend our regular part-time and full-time courses. When your group signs up for a customized course, you will be able to build your ideal course.
Private & Semi-Private Tutoring:
Austin ESL School is now offering private & Semi-Private tutoring classes to students who would like to have a concentrated, target-orientated course. This course is designed to fit your schedule, your needs, and your goals. You may enroll as few as 2 hours a week in a small sized class. Whether you would like to improve your language skills, test preparations or better prepared for a professional presentation, this is for you! Please check here for the course details and to apply.