Welcome

Welcome to the American Language and Culture Institute (ALCI)! If you are an international student who wants to earn an undergraduate or graduate degree at a respected university but lacks a sufficient TOEFL/IELTS score, then ALCI is the place for you. ALCI offers rigorous academic training for disciplined students who want to succeed at Azusa Pacific University. By successfully completing ALCI English training, you can meet the English proficiency requirement at APU.

At ALCI you will:

  • Be trained to write university-level papers.
  • Research academic journals.
  • Give presentations in front of professors and peers.
  • Participate in American seminar-style discussions.

Conditionally admitted students who successfully complete Level 4 can enter their undergraduate degree program; conditionally-admitted students who successfully complete Level 5 can enter their graduate program. Students in Level 4 write a 15-20-page research paper based on a current event in their field. These students then present their research in front of the student body and a panel of professors. Students in Level 5 audit graduate classes and take two courses that are taught in the same manner as graduate courses. This bridgelike program prepares students for the challenge of graduate school.

Unlike some programs that focus on test taking and general English exercises, ALCI prepares students for the actual university classroom environment. Students receive training in academic writing, formal presentations, and seminar speaking skills. Success is based upon how well students perform in the university after ALCI. For more than 20 years, ALCI has trained students who came to APU with limited English skills and left APU with undergraduate and graduate degrees. The close-knit Christian atmosphere encourages students to make lasting friendships with American students, fellow internationals from around the globe, and faculty/staff. Through small class sizes and opportunities to connect directly with faculty and staff, we provide excellent individual attention and care. We look forward to your joining our community!