Foreign Students Learning English At Auburn University

Auburn University offers international students the opportunity to learn English as a Second Language (ESL) and provides a supportive campus environment to do so. The university offers constant support, academic advising, diverse cultural experiences, and a welcoming community to ease the transition for international students.

Auburn's Department of World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures offers courses in various languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, and Russian. The department also provides students with the opportunity to pursue degrees in Spanish and Hispanic culture, such as a Master of Arts in Spanish or a Master of Hispanic Studies.

Additionally, Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) offers a vibrant campus environment and affordable tuition fees for international students, with scholarships of up to $4,000 per year. AUM also provides a range of services for international students, including application assistance, visa processes, transportation arrangements, and academic advisor introductions.

English language proficiency requirements for admission

International students at Auburn University can apply directly to the university or through Auburn Global. Those with limited English proficiency are encouraged to apply through Auburn Global, which offers an International Accelerator Program (IAP) that provides intensive English language instruction and wraparound support resources to help students acclimate to Auburn University.

Regardless of the application route, all international applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. This can be done by submitting a TOEFL, PTE, or IELTS score, or by taking the equivalent of English 1100 and 1120 (English Composition I/II) at an accredited U.S. institution and earning a grade of "C" or better in both. Alternatively, applicants can demonstrate proficiency by graduating from a U.S. high school.

The following are the minimum required scores for English language proficiency tests:

• TOEFL iBT: 79
• TOEFL/PTE (Computerized Test): 213
• TOEFL/PTE (Written Paper-Based Test): 550
• IELTS: 6.5 or higher

Test scores must be sent directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

In addition to the English language proficiency requirements, international applicants must also submit foreign transcripts evaluated by an independent credentials evaluator. The evaluator must report the applicant's grade point average (GPA) on a U.S. grading scale. An evaluation from any member organization of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) is strongly encouraged.

Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM)

For international students interested in Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM), there is no application fee. However, proof of English proficiency is required unless the applicant is exempt. The following are the minimum scores accepted by AUM:

• Duolingo: 100
• TOEFL iBT: 61
• IELTS: 5.5
• PTE: 44
• TOEFL PBT: 500

English language courses and programs offered by Auburn University

Auburn University offers a variety of English language courses and programs for students. The university's English Core Curriculum equips students with the skills they need to succeed in their careers and encourages them to think critically and creatively.

For international students with limited English proficiency, Auburn Global's International Accelerator Program (IAP) provides intensive English language instruction alongside wraparound support resources to help students adjust to life at Auburn University. The program is designed to improve students' English language proficiency and help them meet academic, personal, and professional goals. It consists of two main components: Listening and Speaking, and Reading and Writing, with students spending 10 hours per week on each. The duration of the program varies depending on the student's level of English proficiency and intake period.

Auburn University also offers a range of English courses as part of its College of Liberal Arts. These include:

• Elementary World Language, for languages not currently taught by the Department of World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures.
• Elementary Arabic I and II, for students with no prior knowledge of Arabic, offering practice in speaking, listening, reading, writing, grammar, and culture.
• Elementary Chinese I and II, providing exposure to Chinese language and culture.
• Elementary French I and II, focusing on basic language skills and conversation, with exposure to French culture.
• Elementary German I and II, covering fundamentals of German language skills and exposure to German-speaking cultures.
• Elementary Italian I and II, offering basic language skills in Italian and exposure to Italian culture.
• Elementary Japanese I and II, focusing on fundamentals of Japanese and exposure to Japanese civilization.
• Elementary Korean I and II, helping students learn the four basic skills of modern Korean.
• Elementary Latin I and II, introducing students to the knowledge and skills necessary for reading classical Latin.
• Elementary Russian I and II, covering fundamentals of Russian and exposure to Russian culture and civilization.
• Elementary Spanish I and II, emphasizing basic language skills and conversation, with exposure to Hispanic civilization.

Additionally, Auburn University offers a range of English Composition courses, including:

• English Composition I, an intensive study of effective expository and argumentative writing.
• Honors Writing Seminar I and II, focusing on topics in writing for students in the Honors College.
• English Composition II, emphasizing research.
• Introduction to Creative Writing, introducing students to the genres of creative writing.
• Introduction to Professional Writing, providing an introduction to the disciplines of professional writing.
• Introduction to Literary Studies, introducing students to the academic study of literary texts in English, with an emphasis on formulating arguments and managing the writing process.
• World Literature before and after 1600, offering culturally diverse readings from ancient times to the present.
• British Literature before and after 1789, providing a survey of British literature from its beginnings to the present.
• American Literature before and after 1865, offering a survey of American literature from its beginnings to the present.
• African American Literature before and after 1900, covering African American literature from its beginnings to the present.

These are just a few examples of the English language courses and programs offered by Auburn University. The university provides a wide range of options to meet the diverse needs of its student body, including international students seeking to improve their English language skills.

Application process for international students

Auburn University offers a vibrant and inclusive community for international students, with over 600 organizations to explore. The university provides constant support, academic advising, diverse cultural experiences, and a welcoming community to help international students transition to life in the US.

International students can apply for admission directly to the university or through Auburn Global. Students with limited English proficiency may apply to Auburn through Auburn Global's International Accelerator Program (IAP), which provides intensive English language instruction and wraparound support resources to help students adjust to life at Auburn University.

• Submit Your Admission Application: International students need to submit their admission application online at auburn.edu/admissions or through the Common Application. There is no preference for either application method.
• Pay the Application Fee: International students applying to the Auburn University Graduate School must pay a non-refundable application fee of $70. Domestic students applying to the Graduate School pay a fee of $60. For undergraduate admissions, all applicants, including international students, must pay a non-refundable application fee of $60.
• Submit Standardized Test Scores: International applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. This can be done by submitting scores from one of the accepted English language proficiency tests: TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. The minimum required scores are as follows:

• TOEFL iBT: 79
• TOEFL (computerized test): 213
• TOEFL (written paper-based test): 550
• IELTS: 6.5 or higher

• Submit Academic Records: International applicants must submit official transcripts from their previous academic institutions. Freshmen applicants need to submit evaluated high school transcripts, while transfer applicants must submit evaluated college/university transcripts. All international applicants must also provide an official original language transcript and final diploma/certificate(s) accompanied by a certified English translation.
• Demonstrate Financial Support: International applicants seeking admission to a degree program must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves and any dependents during their studies. This includes providing an Affidavit of Financial Support and a Supporting Bank Letter. The bank letter must specify the amount of funds available and be in US dollars.
• Submit Additional Documents: Depending on the program and level of study, international applicants may be required to submit additional documents. For example, graduate applicants may need to provide letters of recommendation, and undergraduate applicants may need to submit ACT and/or SAT scores.
• Apply for an F-1 Student Visa: International students will typically need to obtain an F-1 student visa to study at Auburn University. The visa application process includes paying the I901 fee, reserving a visa interview date, and preparing a visa interview packet, which includes the I-20 form and financial documents.
• Meet With Your Admissions Advisor: Auburn University provides admissions advisors to help guide students through the application process. They can provide support with navigating requirements, deadlines, and any other questions that may arise during the application process.

By following these steps and working closely with their admissions advisor, international students can successfully apply to Auburn University and take advantage of the academic and cultural opportunities it offers.

Scholarships and financial aid for international students

International students at Auburn University can apply for scholarships and financial aid to help fund their studies. The university offers a range of scholarships for international students, including:

Undergraduate International Scholarships

International students who pay full out-of-state tuition can apply for scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 per year. The scholarship award is based on academic merit and can be used to cover tuition fees. To be eligible, students must have a minimum high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or achieve a certain score on a language test such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Transfer and exchange students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are also eligible for these scholarships.

Graduate International Scholarships

Graduate international scholarships are also available for students pursuing a master's or doctoral degree. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and financial need. The scholarship amount varies and can be up to $10,000 per year. To be eligible, students must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or achieve a certain score on a language test.

International Graduate Focus Scholarship

The International Graduate Focus Scholarship is offered to international students pursuing a master's degree in specific programs, including Computer Information Systems and Cyber Security, Geographic Information Systems, Management Information Systems, Business Administration, and Public Administration. The scholarship amount is up to $10,000 for the length of the program.

International Undergrad Warhawk Scholarship

The International Undergrad Warhawk Scholarship is awarded to incoming international students who demonstrate academic merit and financial need. The scholarship amount is $8,000 per year.

Additional Financial Aid

In addition to scholarships, international students may also be eligible for other forms of financial aid, such as grants, loans, and work-study programs. It is recommended to contact the relevant department or office at Auburn University for more information on the specific financial aid options available.

Benefits of learning English at Auburn University

Auburn University offers a range of benefits for international students looking to learn English. Here are some advantages of learning English at Auburn University:

Supportive Campus Environment:

Auburn University provides a supportive campus environment for international students learning English. The university aims to ease the transition for international students by offering constant support, academic advising, diverse cultural experiences, and a welcoming community. With over 600 organizations and a strong family spirit, Auburn fosters a sense of belonging and community for international students.

Intensive English Language Instruction:

Auburn Global's International Accelerator Program (IAP) offers intensive English language instruction for students with limited English proficiency. This program combines course work with wrap-around support resources to help international students acclimate to the academic and cultural environment at Auburn University.

Academic Excellence and Hands-on Learning:

Auburn University is ranked among the top 100 research universities in the nation and offers a wide range of academic programs. The university prioritizes practical, hands-on learning alongside theoretical instruction. The Department of World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures offers a variety of language programs that prepare students for graduate studies and careers in diverse fields.

Cultural Immersion and Study Abroad Opportunities:

Auburn University encourages cultural immersion and offers study abroad programs for students to enhance their language skills and gain global perspectives. The university's collaboration with organizations like Shorelight provides engaging and challenging programs for international students, ensuring a personalized and supportive educational experience.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

Auburn University offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. For example, Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) offers international scholarships of up to $4,000 per year for qualified international students. AUM also provides affordable tuition and fees, making it a cost-effective option for international students.

Comprehensive Support Services:

The Office of Global Initiatives at Auburn University offers comprehensive support services for international students, including application assistance, visa processes, transportation arrangements, academic advising, and more. The university also assists international students with housing, health insurance, and navigating cultural differences, ensuring a smooth transition to life in the United States.

Frequently asked questions