American Language Institute
The American Language Institute (ALI) has been helping students reach their personal and professional goals since 1961. At the ALI, you will have high-quality English language instruction, enthusiastic teachers and plenty of support to help you get the most out of your time in San Francisco.
English for Academic Preparation (EAP)
- Learn English skills to prepare for American colleges and universities
- Held at the SFSU main campus
- Offered in fall, spring and summer
- Conditional admission to SFSU
Gateway: English + University Credit Studies
- Improve your English and academic skills for university success
- Take an SFSU course for credit
- Receive support to understand and complete your university course assignments
- Level 90: The highest English level of English for Academic Preparation
Conditional Admission
- For students seeking admission to SFSU, who need to improve their English
- Two possible TOEFL waivers — receive either waiver without completing the highest ALI level
- Apply to SFSU after deadlines have passed
- Receive assistance with your application
San Francisco Discover
- Improve your spoken English
- Two- to four-week programs
- Student visa not required
- Visit innovative companies, universities and San Francisco neighborhoods
- Offered multiple times per year
STEM Exploration
- Gain technical vocabulary and understand of new science and technology concepts
- Learn and discuss current topics in applied science and technology
- Create and deliver short academic presentations
English to University Studies Pathway
- Offered in partnership with San José State University (SJSU)
- Improve your English skills at SFSU's English for Academic Preparation program
- Move on to take university classes with Semester @ SJSU
News & Events
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International Students - Study English in San Francisco, California The English for Academic Preparation (EAP) program gives… -
After earning his certificate from the College of Professional & Global Education, entrepreneur Sota Watanabe went on to…
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SFSU will be closed for Labor Day on Monday, September 1, 2025.
Mission
The mission of the American Language Institute at San Francisco State University is to serve English language learners and the university by providing:
- English instruction that equips students with the language and strategies they need for academic success
- Support services that empower students to make informed decisions about their academic and professional goals
- Teacher education that prepares the next generation of skilled, reflective and dynamic TESOL professionals
In all its work, the ALI prioritizes quality, empathy and collaboration.
What Students Say
Ane, Spain
“At the ALI, I learned how to communicate with English and not just memorize rules. This made my classes so fun. Also I made friends from all over the world.”
Abdullah, Saudi Arabia
“As a result of more than 50 years of experience, this school knows what the students really need. I really appreciate this school for helping me reach my goal of going to an American law school.”
Asako, Japan
“To get into graduate school, the English for Academic Preparation program gave me great advice, resources and encouragement. It was the best choice for me to train at SFSU's English for Academic Preparation program before pursuing my academic goal in the U.S.”
Mohammed, Kuwait
“The English for Academic Preparation program at SFSU is the greatest school for learning English because the classes are a comfortable place to meet students from many nations, and the staff are so welcoming and helpful. They have a lot of fun activities, parties and field trips.”