Academic English Program

Full English Immersion in a University Setting

Interested in learning English in a beautiful university setting? Since 1998, UTSA’s Academic English Program (AEP) has successfully helped thousands of students from the U.S. and around the world learn English. Classes are taught entirely in English at UTSA’s Main Campus where students receive personalized attention from qualified instructors.

Our goal is to prepare students to succeed in their educational, professional, and personal goals by acquiring English proficiency. The AEP achieves its mission by teaching English for academic purposes, so students are well prepared to pursue degrees at UTSA or other U.S. institutions, familiarizing students with U.S. culture, and promoting intercultural awareness in both the global and local communities.

What to Expect

After taking a placement test during orientation week, you will be placed in one of five levels based on your results: beginner, high beginner, intermediate, high intermediate, or advanced. Classes are held at UTSA’s Main Campus and are average-sized giving you personalized attention. Learn more about what to expect after being accepted.

The Academic English Program (AEP) offers a unique educational experience, including:

  • world-class, expert faculty, who have master’s degrees in teaching English as a second language.
  • a rigorous academic program, with clear learning objectives at each level.
  • a unique dedication from faculty and staff to help you succeed academically.
  • access to all services available at The University of Texas at San Antonio.

The Academic English Program is for anyone who wants to:

  • fulfill a personal dream of pursuing a degree from a U.S. college or university.
  • achieve professional success in the U.S. or abroad.
  • gain a significant improvement in English language proficiency while enjoying a stay in beautiful San Antonio, Texas.

Additional Resources Offered to AEP Students

  • Global Connections: Pairs AEP students with other members of the UTSA community to meet and chat. Click here to learn more about the Global Connections Program.
  • Coffee & Conversation: A relaxed setting to discuss a variety of topics in English, allowing students to practice English speaking and listening. Click here to learn more about Coffee & Conversation.
  • ESL Workshops: Tailored to the current student population to boost language skills.
  • Access to all UTSA Services including social activities.
  • Over 300 student organizations.
  • Cultural Excursions in San Antonio, TX.
  • Tutoring Services.
  • Access to Transparent Language Online.
  • Customized social events that meets the needs of our students.

Calendar

FALL 2021
Orientation week: August 16 – August 20, 2021
First day of class: August 23, 2021
Final day to register: September 8, 2021
Last day of class: December 1, 2021

SPRING 2022
Orientation week: January 10 – January 14, 2022
First day of class: January 18, 2022
Final day to register: February 2, 2022
Last day of class: April 29, 2022


Why Students Prefer Us!

Person holding arm out in a welcoming manner

Welcoming Environment

People connected in a network

Intercultural Experiences
Customer service representative using a headset

Customer Service

Two people in dialogue

Student-Centered Advising
Person in a triumphant pose

Dedication to Student Success

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Integrated Programming

Instruction Focuses on these Areas

  • Reading / Vocabulary

    You will learn to read fluently and understand a variety of academic texts. You will also learn the definitions and contextual uses of many different words.

  • Writing / Grammar

    You will be able to perform academic writing tasks, demonstrating organizational skills suitable for undergraduate and graduate-level writing assignments. You will be able to incorporate complex grammar structures into your writing.

  • Oral Communication

    You will learn to speak English fluently with ease and develop pronunciation skills that can transfer over time to professional settings. You will be able to understand a wide variety of styles, register, and speech that you will find in academic and professional contexts.

  • TOEFL Preparation

    You will build the testing skills necessary to complete the tasks in the TOEFL PBT and TOEFL IBT using the skills you have obtained over the course of the ESL program.

  • Accent Modification

    You will learn English rhythm, melody, and clear speech through knowledge of the rules about the way English pronunciation works and various in-class exercises ranging from mechanical to open and communicative.

  • American Culture

    You will learn to listen, speak, read, and write critically in English while learning about the American Culture.

  • Academic Skills

    You will build your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English as you learn how to navigate and thrive within the American Higher Education System. You will learn the skills necessary to succeed in any U.S. college or university.


Upon Arrival to the Program

A student may be placed in any of the 5 levels of English study currently offered based on results of a placement test: beginner, high beginner, intermediate, high intermediate, or advanced.

Click here to see the proficiency scale.


Requirements for the AEP

17+
Must be 17 years old by the first day of class.
Passport

Must submit a photocopy of current passport and visa (if applicable).

Diploma

Must be a high school graduate or equivalent.

Documents with a magnifying glass

International applicants seeking to apply to the program as F1 students must submit a bank statement showing at least $13,961.23
to pay for educational expenses during the fall semester.


Approximate Cost Per Semester (subject to change)

Tuition and Fees
Tuition and Fees
Tuition $4,000
Application Fee $60
Testing $100
University Fees $576
Total $4,736

 

Other Mandatory Expenses
Other Mandatory Expenses
Health Insurance - Fall 2021 $1,338
Health Insurance - Spring and Summer 2022 $2,124
Health Insurance - Summer 2022 $805
Books $300

*Please note that students who enroll in the spring semesters will automatically be charged health insurance for Spring and Summer

Living Expenses
Living Expenses
One year (Summer, Fall, Spring) $9,200
One semester (Fall or Spring) $3,500
Summer $2,200

 

Meal Plan
Meal Plan
One semester (Fall or Spring) $1,900
Summer $1,300

 

Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
Personal Expenses $1,000

Financial Assistance

We offer a discount for students with connections to UTSA. Click here to learn more about our Refer-a-Friend Discount.


More Information

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