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Frequently Asked Questions

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Why should I attend the American Language and Culture Institute (ALCI) over other intensive English programs?

ALCI does not require a TOEFL score to enter the program, so you can start right where you are in your level of English proficiency. We also offer great personal care for you as a student through peer-mentoring, advising, and small class sizes. We get you involved in the university for a more complete learning experience.

How long is one semester?

15 weeks in the fall and spring, 14 weeks in the summer. New semesters begin in August, January, and May.*

*Summer Intensive Conference Session (four weeks) in July.

How much does one semester cost?

Levels 1-5: $5,250 for tuition, health insurance, and miscellaneous fees. Books are an additional cost of approximately $250 per semester.

Level 6: $3,050 for tuition, health insurance, and miscellaneous fees plus tuition for two graduate courses (Tuition amounts vary. Please see Graduate Program Fees for exact amounts.) Books are a separate charge.

How will you decide my class level?

During your first week at ALCI you will have one full day of testing which includes four basic tests: reading and listening comprehension, grammar, writing, and speaking. An evaluation will be made from the test results. You must also interview with an ALCI advisor who will review your file to decide which level is appropriate for you.

How many students are in class with me?

Classes are no larger than 16 students.

Am I automatically admitted to APU if I study at ALCI?

No. Studying at APU requires a separate application to be completed and returned to the International Center. APU will notify you if you are accepted into the undergraduate or graduate program. You may advance from ALCI into your university program when you have:

  1. Successfully completed level 4 and met the requirements for the undergraduate program at APU or successfully completed level 6 to meet the requirements for the graduate program at APU.
  2. Received your letter of acceptance to APU.

You are not required to be accepted into APU to study at ALCI.

Do I get a certificate after completing the program?

Yes. When you successfully complete levels 1-4 (passing grade of at least 80 percent), you will receive a certificate of completion at the end of each level. Graduate students will receive a certificate at the completion of each level 5 and 6 (passing grades of at least 85 percent).

Is housing available?

The Office of Housing Services coordinates campus housing for traditional undergraduate students (including transfer, international, and ALCI students). It is important to apply early since campus housing is limited. Once a student is accepted, he/she must complete an APU Housing Application, and submit it with a $250 (U.S.) room deposit. To obtain a housing application, contact us.

The Office of Asset Management manages Azusa Pacific University’s non-campus rental properties reserved for graduate, international and ALCI graduate, married undergraduate, other non-traditional students, and faculty/staff, as well as maintains up-to-date listings of housing opportunities for the larger APU and local communities. Please contact the office for additional information about available housing options.

How long will I need to study at ALCI before attending APU?

The length of study at ALCI depends on the level at which you enter. For example, a student beginning at level 3 would spend two semesters in English as a Second Language (ESL) studies before entering the undergraduate program. A graduate student entering at level 4 would spend three semesters in ESL studies before entering the graduate program full time. Your program will be mapped out for you at your initial interview during your first week at ALCI.

Can I earn credit while studying at ALCI?

Students preparing for undergraduate programs cannot earn academic credit at ALCI. Graduate students take two courses (6 credits total) in their level 6 program that give them credit toward their graduate program.