Course types
English courses for international students in the US
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.
Hour bands below are examples, not a promise about every course. Find My Program uses recorded school labels and keeps unknown matches separate.
Intensive English
18–25 hrs/weekA 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/weekA lighter class schedule. Confirm course content, hours and the appropriate immigration status.
Hours alone do not determine visa eligibility.Exam preparation
20–25 hrs/weekTOEFL, IELTS and Cambridge courses built around a test date and a target score.
Usually full-time.University pathway
20+ hrs/weekRoutes 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/weekMeetings, presentations, negotiation and written correspondence for working professionals.
Confirm eligibility for this specific course.Short-term / vacation
10–20 hrs/weekShort courses combining English lessons with a stay abroad. Content and schedules vary by school.
Confirm eligibility for this specific course.