American Language Program
Study English at an Ivy League University.
Applications for the Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 semester are currently open.
We have different options available for Fall 2020.
US-based students with an active I-20 (or other residency) can take our on-campus Intensive program (assuming Phase 4 opening in New York City).
Those outside the US or unable to take classes on campus can participate in our remote (online) courses.
For more information click on the individual program pages:
The ALP offers a unique educational experience:
- a world-class, expert faculty, with many years of teaching experience
- a rigorous academic program, with clear objectives to reach at each level
- one of the oldest English language programs in the U.S.
The ALP can help you achieve your English language goals:
Eight levels of intensive English classes, for those who want to:
- prepare to get a degree from a U.S. college or university
- achieve professional success in the U.S. or abroad
- fulfill a personal dream of studying in New York City
Three advanced level part-time English courses for the Columbia community:
A two-week cultural Winter Institute in January.
A Summer Advanced Academic Preparation course for those about to begin degree programs in the U.S.
A three-week Summer English for Professional Purposes: Business course.
A Summer Advanced Academic English for Graduate Students course specifically for admitted Columbia University students beginning their Master's programs in Fall.
ALP Activities and Columbia Events
It's so much more than English.
Community is very important at the ALP. We plan activities, events and workshops to help you make friends, practice English and get to know the city. As a Columbia student you also have full access to student clubs and University events. There's always something happening!
Check out our Student Life page to find out more, including our Language Exchange Program.
Studying at Columbia ALP was the best investment I've ever made."
Orlando Ferrand, Chile
| Program | Details | Hours per week | Course Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intensive Academic English Program | 8-levels of instruction: Pre-intermediate to advanced level |
18 |
14 weeks, Fall and Spring; 4, 8 or 12 weeks Summer |
| Advanced Academic Preparation | Rigorous pre-university academic preparation ALP level 7-10 |
18 |
8 weeks Summer |
| English for Professional Purposes: Business | Advanced level course for business professionals and pre-MBA students |
18 |
3-weeks, from late July |
| Winter Cultural Program | New York cultural experience plus English ALP levels 3-9 (Intermediate to Advanced) |
15 – classroom instruction 12 – project-based field trips |
2 weeks, January |
| Part-Time English Courses: Writing, Listening & Speaking, Pronunciation | Advanced level courses for local residents, Columbia international students and employees |
8.5 – Writing 4.5 – Listening & Speaking, Pronunciation |
14 weeks, Fall and Spring |
Connect with Us
Learn more about American Language Program at Columbia University, or contact the program advisor.
Request more informationStudy with Us
As admissions to our programs are highly competitive, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Learn more about the application process, deadlines, and requirements.
Learn moreCommission on English Language Accreditation
The Advanced Academic Preparation Program is accredited by the Commission on English Language Accreditation (CEA) for the period of August 2019 through August 2029. For these offerings, the American Language Program agrees to uphold CEA Standards for English Language Programs and institutions. The U.S. Secretary of Education recognizes CEA as a national accrediting agency for English language programs and institutions in the U.S.