Fall Update

At SPS this fall, all courses, other than pre-established online courses, will be offered face-to-face in our New York City classrooms. Some of these face-to-face courses will be offered in the HyFlex format to ensure that all of our students can make progress toward their degree requirements, if faced with delays due to student visas or vaccination effectiveness wait times.

Apply to the ALP

The American Language Program only accepts applications submitted online from this website. No applications from online third-parties will be accepted.

The one-time application fee to the ALP is $150, non-refundable. Full-time programs also require a $350 tuition deposit, non-refundable.

Specific application materials and procedures are on each program page.

To study at the ALP, most students need to complete TWO applications:

  1. the ALP online application
  2. the online I-20 application (for your F-1 Student Visa)

Summer 2021 and Fall 2021 Applicants

If you're applying for admission in the Summer 2021 or Fall 2021 terms, please start your application using the button below.

Start Your Online Application

Apply for Your Student Visa

For most students, an F-1 visa is necessary to study in the U.S. To get your F-1, you need an I-20 (‘Certificate of Eligibility’ form) from Columbia.

After the ALP admits you, you must complete a second online application to get your I-20.

You need a number of different documents before you can apply for your I-20.

Go to our Student Visa page for information.

Connect with Us

Learn more about American Language Program at Columbia University School of Professional Studies, or contact the program advisor.

Request more information

Joel Chaffee, Assistant Director of ALP Admissions

212-854-3584

Apply to the American Language Program

Learn more about the application process, deadlines, and requirements.

Learn more