Academic English

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For more information about tuition, fees, and start dates for INTO's Academic English program, visit the INTO Study website.

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Improve your language skills while building your knowledge of U.S. culture with the Academic English (AE) program. You can also choose electives of interest, learn industry-specific vocabulary, and prepare for standardized tests.

This program will help you develop the skills to succeed beyond the classroom. You'll learn to: 

  • Use vocabulary common to academic disciplines. 
  • Take accurate notes in academic lectures and presentations 
  • Read, understand, and evaluate academic texts. 
  • Present spoken and written ideas accurately and effectively in English. 
  • Write research papers with proper use of citations and references.
     

 

Click here for a detailed Achievement Scale Interpretation

All students take a Placement Exam during orientation to determine their AE level. You can estimate your level based on your standardized test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo).

INTO Mason will determine the best AE course level for you based on your language assessment scores in reading, writing, speaking and listening. 

The table might help you compare your standardized English proficiency scores with INTO Mason AE levels. Students who submit valid TOEFL iBT or IELTS scores may be eligible for Assured AE Level Placement.

Academic English levels based on test scores

Program Structure

Start dates: August for the fall semester; January for the spring semester; May for the summer semester.

Program length: 16 weeks in the fall and spring, 11 weeks in the summer.  

Classroom time: 18 to 20 hours per week in the fall and spring, 25 hours per week in the summer. 

Minimum enrollment: One semester 

AE levels: Seven, ranging from beginner to advanced/proficient 

Application requirements: You must be at least 17 and have a high school diploma. 

Progression requirements: After completing Academic English levels, you can continue to an International Year One Undergraduate Pathway or Graduate Pathway, or use your AE Level to apply directly to Mason. 

INTO MASON AE CEA Accreditation

Academic English Calender

AE Calendar Spring Semester 2025

Spring Event

Spring 2025

Student Orientation Week Jan 13-17, 2025
AE First Day of Classes Tue, Jan 21, 2025
AE Exam Period May 1-6, 2025
AE Last Day of Class Tue, May 6, 2025

AE Calendar Summer Semester 2025

Summer Event

Summer 2025

Student Orientation Week May 12-16, 2025
AE First Day of Classes  Mon, May 19, 2025
AE Exam Period Jul 22-25, 2025
AE Last Day of Class Fri, Jul 25, 2025

AE Calendar Fall Semester 2025

Fall Event Fall 2025
Student Orientation Week Aug 18-22, 2025
AE First Day of Classes Mon, Aug 25, 2025
AE Exam Period Dec 4-9, 2025
AE Last Day of Class Tue, Dec 9, 2025

 *For holidays during semesters, please refer to Mason Academic Calendars: https://registrar.gmu.edu/calendars/.