The Intensive Academic Preparation program at the American Language and Culture Institute at CSUSM is designed for international students with low to medium English proficiency. The program offers ESL courses in reading, vocabulary, academic writing, grammar, public speaking, study skills and test preparation.

Program Features

Opportunity to take university courses for credit toward a degree for qualified, advanced-level students

Six proficiency levels

24 class hours per week

Small class sizes

Leadership and service learning

Mentorship and partnership programs

More than 100 recognized student organizations students can join

Group activities such as beach picnics, cultural celebrations and other trips

Academic courses in reading, vocabulary, academic writing, grammar, public speaking, study skills, test preparation and enrichment classes

CSUSM credit classes for qualified, advanced-level students

Chances to make international and American friends

Certificates of completion and certificate ceremony

Interested in learning more? Click here to watch a webinar on all that the USA Direct program at CSUSM has to offer

Check out five reasons to study abroad in California! 

 HOUSING

Students will be placed into suite-style apartments in either the University Village Apartments or the Quad. These residence halls offer a variety of study spaces, workout facilities, outdoor pools and free laundry. The suites vary in size and style, but most students will be placed in an 8-person suite that includes 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a living area, and a kitchen. The exact room type for placement will be dependent on space availability. Please note that single rooms will not be available through the ISEP housing package. 

MEALS 

Students will be automatically enrolled in the 19 Meals Per Week option in CSUSM's brand new dining facility (opening August 26, 2022). In addition, students will receive flex money that can be used throughout the semester at various campus eateries. Students will be responsible for their own meals during orientation week.

*Calendar Year students are not eligible for ISEP housing or meal benefits over the summer break. 

Program Website

Website for Course Availability

ISEP STUDENT SERVICES OFFICER Jacki D'Amico 703-504-9977 | JDAmico@isep.org Thanks for your interest in ISEP Study Abroad! I’m your Student Services Officer and main point of contact here at ISEP. As you search for programs, I'll be available to answer any questions you might have. Feel free to contact me at any point in your search process for help, tips or advice.

Academics

Undergraduate
(in English)

*This program is OK for Sophomores

Fields of Study

  • English Language and Literature:

    Rhetoric and Composition Writing

Academic Requirements

None

Special Needs Support

  • Mental Health
  • Mobility
  • Hearing
  • Visual
  • Speech
  • Learning

Graduate
(in English)

Fields of Study

  • English Language and Literature

Academic Requirements

None

Special Needs Support

  • Mental Health
  • Mobility
  • Hearing
  • Visual
  • Speech
  • Learning

Other Academic Conditions

PASSPORT: All students must have a valid passport to participate in this program. If you do not have a valid passport, we suggest you start the application process as soon as possible. 

VISA: All non-U.S. citizens will be required to obtain a visa. For more information on the process and estimated cost, please review the ISEP Country Handbook here.

Semester & Prices (based on your filters)

Select a semester to calculate the price. Semesters are named according to host university's calendar.


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California State University, San Marcos

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