English Courses for International Students in New York

English is a language widely spoken in almost every country, therefore, knowing fluent English tends to be one of the primary requirements. It has almost become a necessity to be able to communicate effectively in any working environment, in today's world. It has become an important medium of instruction in the field of education, and an essential medium of communication in the work field as well as day-to-day life.

When moving to an English-speaking country, international candidates are generally required to pass and secure a specific score in English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. But sometimes, solely cracking these tests may not be satisfactory enough for people who wish to improve their English writing, speaking, or reading skills, especially when applying for a job or a course that requires a higher level of expertise. Such candidates would prefer polishing their language skills if they feel that they lack communication skills (be it at the workplace or any educational institution).

New York is known to be the prime commercial, cultural, and economic hub. It is the biggest city in the USA and is also recognized for its quality education. New York is home to some of the best educational institutes in the nation and across the globe. In case one wishes to take up English courses in this great city, then they will find a wide range of options with regards to institutes, their location, the courses they offer, and more.

Types of English Language Courses

There are various types of English language training programs/courses that focus on either improving a specific area of language or improving language in a general and all-inclusive manner. The area of focus or the type of course offered should be decided by the candidate. It can be to enhance one's writing skills, to speak fluently with accurate pronunciation, to improve grammar, to brush up one's vocabulary, and so on. The different types of English language training programs include:

• General English Course: This is a program that ranges from a beginner to advanced level and focuses on the overall development of language and communication skills. It includes training for speaking, writing, reading, and listening.
• For Specific Purposes: This program trains candidates to achieve enhanced vocabulary or speech skills based on different professions that include medicine, law, aviation, hospitality, and so on. These are also known as professional English courses.
• Executive English Course: These courses focus on polishing language and communication for an executive setting. The vocabulary may be slightly different from the standard usage.
• Conversation and Culture Program: This is a course for people who wish to learn the language not only to improve reading or writing skills but also to converse effectively while understanding the culture of the place. This helps to understand different speech styles, colloquial language, and more. This can be learned for travel or academic purposes.
• Academic English Course:This program aims to improve skills in core language areas. It helps to improve language through discussions and debates on various contextual ideas and apply several other exercises that will enhance overall confidence to excel academically.

These classes will vary based on class size (group or one-to-one), course intensity(part-time or full-time), duration(short-term or long-term), timings (morning, noon, or evening), and even seasons (summer, fall, winter, year-round). Candidates should choose the most appropriate course carefully.

Popular Language Schools in NYC

Kaplan International English

Kaplan is located in Midtown and is located amidst all of the iconic cultural locations in the city. Along with achieving a great learning experience, one can get to visit some of the most iconic locations including the nearby museums and parks, and learn from the people around by trying to learn more about the culture of the people. It follows unique teaching methodologies, using the latest technology, and offers a spacious and comfortable environment for learners (offers accommodation as well). Kaplan International is accredited by ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training), Languages Canada, and the British Council.
Courses
Courses available here include general English classes, academic English, intensive English, business English, exam preparation courses, and online English courses. There are many packages on offer including short-term courses like vacation-based courses as well as long-term ones. Courses start at $3,405 (for 4 weeks) along with accommodation.

Literacy Partners

It is one of the best community-based learning opportunities one can get in NYC. The aim is to not only help students learn English as a language but also help them be financially literate and be job-ready. It helps learners to learn the language for both academic as well as personal excellence. Being prepared for life's challenges is not something one would expect out of an English course, but the courses offered here, allow learners to know more about the rules and regulations in the United States apart from just helping to become an effective communicator. The learners are mostly parents and guardians, or adults belonging to families of low income, or immigrants.
Course
All of the courses are free and are offered on a first come first serve basis based on the number of vacancies. The classes mostly involve intensive reading sessions that include a variety of high-quality books, as well as workshops and seminars. The center focuses on developing reading and listening skills.

New York Language Center

New York Language Center has four franchises across the city and is one of the best places to learn English in New York. The institute was founded in the year 1985, and it is known to be one of the best English learning destinations in the city with affordable prices. It is situated in three main locations in New York, namely, Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. The staff at NYLC are hospitable and the learning experience at the institute is quite great. Along with an excellent learning environment, the center also offers accommodation and medical insurance to students. NYLC is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA).
Course:
Their courses are very comprehensive and last up to 28 hours a week. Courses taught here include Business English, TOEFL Preparation, General English, Reading & Writing, Grammar, Listening & Speaking, and more. One can also get access to diagnostic examinations as well as trial classes at no extra cost. The overall fee is approximately $370.00 for an 8-week course.

EC English

Situated in Midtown Manhattan, EC English offers great choices for students to find courses best suited to them. They have some of the most experienced faculty and the best teaching resources to enhance learning and make the experience of learning enjoyable. This language school aims to promote interaction and active engagement through discussions, quizzes, conversations involving real-life situations, and more. The focus here is to make learners confident communicators. EC English offers a comfortable and spacious environment that offers the ideal learning environment for students. The center is accredited by the Federation of English Language Teaching Organizations in Malta (FELTOM), Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET), The Accreditation and Co-ordination of English Language Services (ACELS), Languages Canada, and the British Council.
Course:
Popular courses include general English, intensive English, business English, academic English, exam preparation course, and other special courses like 'English for Work, English in the City, and English + Dancing' and so on. Courses start at $528.00 per week. Students also have the opportunity to attend language workshops, absolutely free.

NYU English Language Institute

The NYU English Language Institute is located near Washington Square Park and was established in 1945. The institute promotes language learning for overall skill development (academic, personal, and professional). It is known for its well-rounded curriculum, and excellent faculty. Each class comprises a group of ten students. This gives way to deeper levels of interaction among students as well as teachers and also helps students receive the required individual attention. To assist students who display financial need, the institute provides a scholarship program called the ELI Fred Malkamese Scholarship.
Course:
Students have the option to take a free English Placement Test to understand which course or level is the best for them. The institute offers Comprehensive English Program, Professional English Program, Mastering English Program under the general or intensive English plan, Executive Business English and Global Communication Program, Language exam preparation, Corporate Education Program, and Collaborative for New Immigrant Education. The writing and grammar course, and the English through American culture course is also offered here. The approximate course fee will be around $2,800 for a full-time 6-week program.

LSI - Language Studies International

LSI is situated near the Metropolitan College of New York and is popularly known for its beautiful building that amply displays architectural prowess. Just like its exterior charm, the interiors of the institute are well-furnished with the latest teaching-learning equipment, and various facilities for all students (including special facilities for disabled students), along with accommodation. The institute focuses on improving fluency and promoting confident communication (developing speaking, listening, reading, writing skills). To achieve this, they use methods not restricted to just classroom teaching but also include various other outdoor activities. LSI is accredited by Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET), NEAS Quality Assurance in Education and Training, Languages Canada, and the British Council.
Course:
LSI includes courses for all levels of language learning and includes Language training for work, general and intensive English course, academic English, business English, premium courses, junior courses, club 40 plus courses, and exam prep courses. Courses start from $560.00 per week.

BSL - Brooklyn School of Languages

Situated in Brooklyn, BSL uses the best of the outdoor-learning approach through excursions, weekly fun activities, museum visits, while improving language skills. BSL aims at making teaching and learning a fun experience where students not only interact within a classroom but also learn the language by truly discovering various cultural sites within NYC. The average student count is 5 to 6 and a maximum of 8 to 10 students per class. This undoubtedly promotes social distancing while making the classes as interactive as possible. The institute promotes improving grammar and enhances fluent communication. BSL is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA).
Course:
Importance is given to speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills through general and intensive English language courses. It is categorized into Adult courses and Junior Courses. The course fee for adults starts at $310 for a 4-week program and $310 for a 1-week junior course program. Accommodation costs are calculated separately.

Conclusion

When applying for a course or generally searching for the right class, one should surely analyze their area of interest or the objectives for learning the lesson. One should also focus on the location, the duration and timings offered, the course descriptions or curriculum, the class size, qualification of faculty, institutional facilities, budget, and overall flexibility. Make sure to check the websites for further information. The prices mentioned here are approximate amounts and may vary based on the type of program and duration. In case students wish to improve their English language for free, they can get enrolled at the Public Library of New York that offers free lessons for basic English, academic English, and professional English.