After you define your priorities and identify the factors most important to you, use other resources to narrow down your choices.
Accreditation and Program Quality
The Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET) and the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA) are two bodies that provide national accreditation to Intensive English Programs (IEPs) in the United States. It is highly recommended that you select a program that is accredited by one or both of these organizations.
The American Association of Intensive English Programs (AAIEP) – also known as "EnglishUSA" – and University and College Intensive English Programs (UCIEP) are the two main U.S. associations for Intensive English Programs that have established standards that all member programs must meet. As you research programs, also consider ones that are members of AAIEP or UCIEP.
Resources
- IEP accreditation organizations:
- IEP membership associations:
- American Association of Intensive English Programs (AAIEP) (also known as EnglishUSA)
Nearly 300 AAIEP members offer accredited intensive English programs at college and university settings or in city centers. - University and College Intensive English Programs (UCIEP)
UCIEP is an independent consortium of university- and college-administered intensive English programs in the United States. - Intensive English USA: Directory of Intensive English Programs in the U.S.
Intensive English USA is the leading source of information for international students researching English programs in the United States.
Many independent websites also allow you to search for institutions offering English programs by time frame, cost, geographic preference, or by other criteria.
You can also learn more about your options by:
- Visiting an EducationUSA advising center near you.
- Taking part in an online webinar through the EducationUSA network.
- Attending a student information fair in-person or online.