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English As A Second Language

: ESL students come from many different countries.

Why Study English as a Second Language at Southwestern?

Our program is designed for non-native speakers of English who wish to make a fast progress in developing the English skills necessary for college or graduate school. Whether you're a beginner or almost fluent in English, we are here to help you reach your goals. Our caring faculty and staff are dedicated to providing quality Christian education that will last a lifetime.

We began in the 1960s under the name of CELL (Center for English Language Learning). Then in 1990, the program was restructured as an intensive English language program that has served hundreds of students from Asia, Central and South America, Europe, Africa, as well as people in the local community.

Our program puts Christ in the center, and all the instructors make it their daily goal to provide quality Christian education. Since our classes are small, you will receive more individual support from your teachers, who deeply care about your learning.

Just like hundreds of students who studied in our program before, you will consider it your “sweet home away from home.” Hope you will join us soon!

What Students Say about Our ESL Program

During the 16-week ESL program, you will learn how to speak, listen, write and read in four hours of class each school day. You will also have the opportunity to practice English with native English-speaking tutors in afternoon/evening tutoring sessions. For a complete description of courses, click on the link below.

Discover the classes that make up the curriculum.

English as a Second Language:
- Curriculum and Courses.

Curriculum

Activities

You can get involved in activities such as music, sports and spiritual programs.

The Student Association puts together social programs every Saturday night with food and lots of fun. Some of these are:

Barn Bash
Putt Putt Golf
Ice Skating and Bowling
Six Flags Theme Park

and many more....

You will also have the opportunity to visit various tourist attractions in Texas. Recent ESL field trips have included:

Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame
Dallas Museum of Art
Fort Worth Zoo
Dallas Aquarium
Dallas Heritage Village
Dallas Cowboys Stadium

Link to area attractions

Southwestern Adventist University is an accredited Christian university located in Keene, a small town in Texas, just 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Founded in 1893, Southwestern is a friendly campus offering more than 36 bachelors degrees and a student body representing more than 50 countries.

: Field trips give ESL students a good view of Texas.

Application

FAQs

When can I begin my ESL program?

You may begin in August or January.

How much does it cost to be an ESL student at Southwestern?

ESL students receive a tuition discount and pay 38% less than other University students. Use our ESL Price Calculator.

Where do I stay while I am enrolled at Southwestern?

Some ESL students live off-campus but most live in the residence halls on campus. ESL students benefit from having English-speaking roommates. Students can choose among several dining plans for the campus cafe.

Can I work on campus?

International students on an F-1 visa can work up to 20 hours per week on campus.

How long is the program?

The program starts every semester, in August and again in January. Students can complete ESL classes in one to three semesters depending on their proficiency in English.

Will someone pick me up at the airport when I fly to Texas?

Yes! Send us your flight schedule and we will pick you up free of charge.

How do I apply?

a. Fill out the on-line application form and submit it.

(English) (Spanish) (Portuguese) (Korean)

b. Submit all requested documents, including high school transcript, personal data form, financial statement, budget form, and sponsor form.

c. After we receive all of your documentation, we review your file, and determine your admission status. If accepted, you will receive an acceptance letter.

d. Send your pre-payment - the amount specified in your acceptance letter.

e. We send you an I-20.

f. Get your visa, buy your airplane ticket, and fly to Dallas-Ft. Worth International Airport in Texas.

Visit our International Students page.