Course types

English courses for international students

English courses for international students differ in intensity, schedules, goals and immigration requirements. Compare what each course type is for before you ask a school about dates and costs.

Intensive English

18–25 hrs/week

A concentrated English course, also offered by many university programs. Confirm the actual schedule with the school.

Confirm the required student status and visa conditions.

Part-time English

10–17 hrs/week

A lighter class schedule. Confirm course content, hours and the appropriate immigration status.

Hours alone do not determine visa eligibility.

Exam preparation

20–25 hrs/week

TOEFL, IELTS and Cambridge courses built around a test date and a target score.

Usually full-time.

University pathway

20+ hrs/week

Routes that may satisfy an institution’s language requirements, subject to its written admission conditions.

Completion does not necessarily guarantee university admission.

Business English

15–25 hrs/week

Meetings, presentations, negotiation and written correspondence for working professionals.

Confirm eligibility for this specific course.

Short-term / vacation

10–20 hrs/week

Short courses combining English lessons with a stay abroad. Content and schedules vary by school.

Confirm eligibility for this specific course.