English Programs for Internationals of the University of South Carolina

School Introduction

USC, founded in 1801, is located on a beautifully landscaped campus in the center of downtown Columbia. There are more than 23, 000 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. USC's Master of International Business (MIBS) program has been ranked by U.S.News and World Report as the best international business program in the country for six consecutive years. USC offers many other nationally recognized programs, including the English Programs for Internationals which has an international reputation for excellence.
The state capital and a growing city with about 500, 000 people living in the metropolitan area, Columbia is a friendly, safe city that welcomes international students with Southern hospitality. Columbia is a typical American city which has many varied activities to offer in the arts, sports, recreation, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Columbia is located in the center of South Carolina and is only a couple of hours away from the Appalachian Mountains or the sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. South Carolina enjoys a warm climate year round.
South Carolina has a population of more than four million people living on 31, 000 square miles. The countryside stretches from the sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Near the beach, in the mountains, and in between, there are many state parks with facilities for hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, canoeing, camping, etc. The pleasures of South Carolina will make your stay fun, memorable and safe.

ESL Program Introduction

The intensive English curriculum of English Programs for Internationals (EPI) combines high-quality instruction with friendly, personalized service. EPI is designed to help international students feel comfortable in their new environment and succeed in U.S. universities and in their careers. EPI provides an intensive English program which offers SIX proficiency levels of instruction. EPI is designed for foreign students who want to improve their English language skills before entering a college or university in the United States. In addition, those who need English skills for professional reasons will find EPI equally appropriate.

EPI offers five 9-week terms per year beginning in January, March, May, August and October. Classes are held Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon. There are three basic classes each day: Grammar/Writing, Reading/Vocabulary, and Speaking/Listening. All students receive at least 22 hours of supervised English instruction per week. Class size averages 12 to 15 students of similar English proficiency.

Students have additional classes (i.e., computer lab) which meet after 3:30 p.m. Students are placed in their classes based on the results of tests given at the beginning of each term. In addition to scheduled classes, students have access to the listening library and the computer labs during the week. All students have an e-mail account and access to the Internet. TOEFL preparation is part of the regular curriculum. Because classes are held on campus, EPI students are able to interact with American students and to learn about student life.

EPI involves students in informal activities for learning English outside of the regular class sessions -- trips, cultural events, sports teams, international coffee hours, conversation partners, receptions with the governor of South Carolina and the president of USC, and visits to public schools and businesses. Most activities are free of charge.

EPI’s On-Line English (OLE) Program provides an opportunity for international students to improve their English language skills without leaving their home countries. It is also appropriate for individuals who need English skills for professional reasons. OLE students receive individual instruction from expert teachers throughout the course. When they complete the course, OLE students receive a certificate of completion from EPI. EPI plans to offer levels 2-6 on-line, as well as on-line business English courses. On-Line English will be offered during regular EPI terms. New OLE courses are being developed each term.

Background Data

• Number of ESL Students: 80-120
• Average Class Size: 12-15
• Hours per Week: 22
• Minimum Age: 17
• Issue I-20: Yes
• Housing Options: Dormitory  Apartment
• School Setting:  Urban 

Schedule & Fees

Spring: 3/17/02-5/17/02
Summer:5/26/02-7/26/02
Fall I: 8/11/02-10/11/02
Fall II: 10/19/02-12/19/02

Tuition: $1725
University fee $175
Application fee: $80
Housing: $700-$950 (9 weeks)

Special Courses & Features

• Conversation Partner Program
• GMAT/GRE Preparation Courses
• TOEFL Preparation Courses
• Teacher Training Courses
• Online ESL/EFL Courses

Contact Info

English Programs for Internationals of the University of South Carolina
Byrnes 207, USC
Columbia, South Carolina 29208

Tel (803) 777-3867
Fax (803) 777-6839
Website