Welcome to the University of Southern Maine

The University of Southern Maine's Intensive English Language Program is located in Portland, Maine, an attractive and historic seaside city. Portland is the cultural and economic center of Maine and is known for its many cultural and recreational activities. The University of Southern Maine offers a very safe, comfortable environment for residential students, with all the benefits of a friendly small city.

Maine, known in the USA as "Vacationland," has four distinct seasons and offers a wide variety of seasonal sporting and leisure activities from swimming and wind-surfing to downhill skiing, hiking, and camping. What's more, Maine in known as one of the safest states in the United States.

Program Highlights

• Safe living and learning environment
• Balanced mixture of nationalities
• Friendly, highly qualified professional instructors
• 22 hours of instruction per week
• Small classes of 6 to 12 students
• Orientation program
• USM student housing with American or international roommates
• TOEFL preparation
• Access to University facilities
• Tutorial program
• Academic counseling and college application assistance
• Planned social activities and field trips
• Certificate of completion
• Access to academic courses for advanced level students
• International Student Association
• Accredited by AAIEP (American Association of Intensive English Programs)
• Bridge Program

Curriculum

The goal of the English Language Program is to help students improve their English language skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening. The program provides the study skills and cultural orientation needed to succeed at an American university.

Due to our small size, we are able to offer students a personalized approach with a goal of providing support, encouragement and top-quality English instruction.

Housing And Student Life

Students have access to all University facilities, including the computer lab, free computer seminars, the language lab, athletic equipment and all student organizations and clubs. Housing is available in convenient, reasonably priced university residence halls where international students can room with American students if desired. The International Student Association offers affordable excursions to New York, Washington and other destinations.

Program

Admissions Procedure

Individuals interested in attending the Intensive English Language Program must:

• have completed secondary school
• provide proof of sufficient funds to support their study

Students with a TOEFL score above 60 iBT or 173 CBT may be eligible to apply for admission to the undergraduate program at the University of Southern Maine.