Framingham State University Academic English Language Programs      

Nestled in a contemporary residential neighborhood 20 miles west of Boston, Framingham State University (FSU) is renowned as one of the first educational institutions for training teachers in the USA. High-quality education is critical to our mission and we provide the perfect place for international students to study English and experience American culture.  While on campus, you have access to a modern campus center, a well-equipped athletic and recreation center, convenient shopping for all your needs, and easy access by train to the city.  

What do we do?  

The Academic English Language Programs (AELP) has helped thousands of students from all over the world achieve the English language skills they need to advance their education or improve their career opportunities. If you are looking for an in-person English language learning experience, we have personalized programs that will help you to achieve your goals:  

• Intensive English Program (day and afternoon): Instruction in reading, speaking, grammar, vocabulary-building, academic writing, pronunciation, TOEFL preparation, and content areas based on student interests. 

• Bridge to University and Professional Success Program: English language students transition to university studies or study English to advance their careers. Students will learn advanced pronunciation techniques, how to give dynamic presentations, how to write academic or professional papers, letters, and emails that communicate their English proficiency, and knowledge of American culture. 

• Pathways2Degree Program: For students who want to continue into a degree-earning program, FSU offers a Pathway to Degree Program in liberal studies and waives the TOEFL for admission to Graduate Studies at FSU.

• Specialized Tutoring: Students meet one-on-one with instructors to enhance language skills. 

What is our schedule of courses? 

The AELP programs begin every year in September (13 weeks in duration); January (13 weeks in duration); and May and July (6 weeks in duration). As an international student, you will take a total of 18 hours of in-class meetings per week. For example, you will have two morning courses (15 hours per week) and one afternoon course (three hours per week). Look at our list of courses to find the perfect course offerings so you can improve your English skills. 

Who teaches our courses? 

Our programs are taught by master-level teachers and are designed to help you succeed at any level of English learning. All of the instructors hold advanced degrees and have earned specialized credentials to teach English to speakers of other languages. Our instructors are committed and they love what they do.

How long does one need to study English to become proficient and ready for a degree program? 

Rebecca Hawk, director of the AELP, explains: “The time it takes a student in an intensive English program to attain proficiency in English is generally thought to be four semesters of study.  However, the length of time needed depends on several factors such as the level of English before starting the program; the amount of class time per week (international students are required to have 18 hours of class time per week); the time a  student spends studying and practicing English outside of class, and whether or not a student studies in a summer session. The biggest factor for success is the level of motivation that a student possesses. If a student is highly motivated to achieve, we know exactly how to help them do that in the shortest amount of time possible.” 

What is special about FSU? 

Past students always talk about our affordable prices and three critical attributes that make studying at FSU extra special. First, our academic excellence and commitment to preparing students for successful careers or further academic study is our highest priority; second, students appreciate that we have a caring and personalized approach to help every student succeed; and third, our location is perfect for living and studying in a relaxed place, but having easy access to all of the advantages and culture found in the world-class, famous city of Boston.  

If FSU sounds like an exciting place for you to learn and experience American culture, please contact us. Our helpful, multilingual staff will reply quickly to you, answer your questions, and guide you through the next steps for making the dream of your English study a reality!