Frequently Asked Questions | Program Information
Choosing a Program
1. What is a concentration?
A concentration is a special focus for the specific type of English that you need to learn. If your level is high-intermediate or above, you can choose from four concentrations: English Language & Culture, English for Academic Purposes, International Business English or English for Science & Technology. Students in lower levels will take the English Language & Culture concentration.
2. Which concentration should I choose?
If your level is in the beginner to intermediate range, you should take the English Language & Culture concentration, which will provide you with a base of essential skills and knowledge.
If your level is high-intermediate or above, you have several choices, depending on your particular interests and goals. If you plan to apply to study at a US university, you should choose take the English for Academic Purposes concentration. If you are studying English for a career in business, you should take International Business English. If you are interested in learning English for study or work in a science or technology field, you should take English for Science & Technology. On the other hand, if you just want to learn general English skills, you should take English Language & Culture.
3. How do I know my current level of English?
For the purposes of selecting a concentration when you apply, you should guess your current level of English based on our online levels explanation. When you get to CELOP, you will take a placement test that will tell us your actual level and will ultimately determine your acceptance into a particular concentration.
4. Which program should I choose?
Most new students coming to CELOP should apply for the Super-Intensive Program (EN050) — the most extensive and concentrated of our program offerings, with 25 hours per week of class instruction.
5. How long is a program at CELOP?
Most programs at CELOP are 12 weeks long -- one academic semester -- beginning in September, January or May. However, many students stay at CELOP for more than one semester. Shorter programs of four and six weeks are offered during the summer (May-August), and one 6-week Mini-Intensive Program (EN004) is offered beginning in January.
6. Will I receive a certificate at the end of my course?
Yes. When you finish your program at CELOP with satisfactory attendance, you will receive an official Boston University Certificate of Completion.
Levels, Student Evaluation & Progress
7. How much English do I need to know to study at CELOP?
Students must be able to read and pronounce simple English words to start our program.
8. How many levels does CELOP have?
There are eight levels of instruction at CELOP from Beginner through High Advanced. Sometimes students from two levels may be combined in the same class.
9. Do I have to take a placement test?
Yes. All students take a placement test when they arrive at CELOP. This test includes sections that evaluate your listening, grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing abilities. The results help decide which level you will be placed in, and whether you are eligible for a particular concentration.
10. How will my progress be monitored?
In our 12-week programs, students receive written evaluations twice per semester and also have personal conferences with teachers to monitor their progress three times each semester.
11. How much can I improve my English in one semester?
That depends on you! People learn languages at different rates. You will stay in the same class for the length of your program. You and your classmates will be given new English material every day. If you study hard and practice your English outside of class, you can make fast progress.
12. How can I move to a higher level class?
Once a student's proper level has been established, there are no level changes during the semester. Your chance to move to a higher level comes if you decide to continue at CELOP for a second semester. There are two ways that you can move into a higher level at CELOP. First, at the end of the semester, your core teacher will make a recommendation for the next semester depending on your performance in class. The second way you can move into a higher level is by retaking the placement test at the beginning of your second semester, and demonstrating a higher level of proficiency.
13. How many semesters should I study at CELOP?
Many students stay at CELOP for more than one semester in order to meet their academic, professional or personal goals. When you first arrive at CELOP, you will have the opportunity to meet with our Academic Advisor to discuss your goals and develop a plan for meeting those goals.
14. What can I do between CELOP semesters?
Between the spring and summer courses, CELOP offers a 3-week program that includes courses in Intensive TOEFL Preparation and in Oral Communication Skills Building. Between summer and fall and between fall and spring, most of our students travel or return home for the break.
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