English Language Resources for International Scholars

Are you an International scholar who would like assistance with reading, writing, and listening comprehension in English? Are you looking for an English language tutor or would like to participate in a language exchange?

On-Campus Resources

English in Action Tutor Program (EIA)
English in Action is a volunteer tutor program designed to help UC San Diego international students, scholars and their spouses with conversational English and information about living in the United States and San Diego. Conversation partners usually meet for 1-2 hours per week at the International Center or another location convenient to both, for an average of 12 months. To apply for a tutor, please pick up an application at the International Student and Scholar Front Office. All of the tutors are volunteers. For registered UC San Diego students this service is free. For scholars and spouses, there is an annual $50 registration fee. For more information, call  (858) 534-3730, or email iprograms@ucsd.edu

English Language Institute (ELI)
UC San Diego Extension provides English language courses for a tuition fee. There are two programs to choose from: a longer 10-week program, or a shorter 4-week course of study. The UCSD Extension catalog has information about qualifications for a discount on Extension courses. For more information, call  (858) 534-6784, or email  ipinfo@ucsd.edu.

UC San Diego Language Labratory
This self-help laboratory offers cassette tapes in English as a Second Language, conversation, listening comprehension, and pronunciation. A UC San Diego ID card is required. There is no fee for the lab’s services. The Language Laboratory is located in AP&M Building, Room 3432A. The Labratory is closed Saturday and Sunday, and during certain holiday periods. For more information, call (858)534-2418

Wednesday Morning Coffee Hour
This event is hosted by the Friends of the International Center. Join us every Wednesday in the International Center Dining Room from 10:00 a.m. to noon and make some friends, have fun, or come practice English! English Conversation Tables and various activities such as arts & crafts and cooking are available. No application necessary and all are welcome! Light refreshments are often provided. For more information, download the Wednesday Morning Coffee flyer. (PDF)

Language Exchange

The Language Exchange is a self-serve program. To find a Language Exchange partner, go to the International Center, find the Language Exchange File Box in the Friends Library, and follow the instructions on how to participate. Fill out the appropriate cards. To find a language partner check the cards already in the file box. Call that person to arrange a meeting, perhaps at the International Cafe, Fridays noon to 1:30 p.m. during the academic year. Check the Language Exchange File frequently, as new participants sign up throughout the year. The Friends Library hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. There is no fee for this program.

Resources for Children

During the School Year

During the school year, local elementary and secondary schools offer excellent programs of assistance through their English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. Check directly with the schools for information about their programs and resources.

During Summer Vacation

Some schools offer summer programs, including English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Contact the public elementary or secondary school serving the area in which the child lives to see what summer programs may be offered.

Community Resources

English classes for beginning, intermediate, and advanced level adults are available both during the day and in the evening in San Diego County. Call the school to find out how to register. Class schedules are available at each center or at the San Diego Public Libraries in the community.

San Diego Continuing Education Centers

Students may enroll at any time during the year. Classes are available at no cost. For further information, visit the website: http://www.sdce.edu/classes/esl.

Centre City Center
1400 Park Blvd (Downtown)
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 388-4600

North City Center
8401 Aero Drive
San Diego, CA 92123
(619) 388-1800

Community Colleges
Classes start at the beginning of each semester and are available for a fee.

Mesa College
7250 Mesa College Drive
San Diego, CA 92111
(619) 388-2600
http://www.sdmesa.edu/

Miramar College
10440 Black Mountain Road
San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 536-7800
http://www.sdmiramar.edu/

Mira Costa College
http://www.miracosta.cc.ca.us
*San Elijo Campus
3333 Manchester Drive
Cardiff, CA 92007
(760) 944-4449

*Oceanside Campus
1 Barnard Drive
Oceanside, CA 92056
(760) 757-2121

Palomar College
1140 West Mission Road
San Marcos, CA 92069
(760) 744-1150
http://www.palomar.edu/

Contact Us

International Scholar Office (ISO)
Phone:
(858) 246-1448
Email:
ischolars@ucsd.edu

Monday through Friday
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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