English as a Second Language program receives national recognition

Those looking to master the English language have an excellent resource in Auburn Montgomery’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program. AUM has been named Alabama’s only test center for the International English Language Testing System. The program also recently became the only institution in Montgomery awarded membership to the American Association of Intensive English Programs.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world's top English test for international higher education and migration. In the U.S. alone, more than 3,000 institutions accept IELTS scores as proof of English language skills. AUM is the only site in Alabama that has been approved to offer the exam.

“We are happy that, starting August 2012, we will be able to offer this service not only to our students, but to all international students and immigrants in the state,” said Gokhan Alkanat, Senior Program Manager of AUM’s ESL program.

AUM was announced as an IELTS site on June 26, following on the heels of another prestigious accomplishment for the program: membership into the American Association of Intensive English Programs (AAIEP). The AAIEP promotes and supports ethical and professional standards for intensive English programs in the U.S., championing the value of English language study across the globe. Membership to the organization is open only to accredited programs that comply to its high standards in the areas of program administration, curriculum design, teaching, admissions and student services.

“It is such an honor to become a member of the AAIEP,” said Alkanat. “This membership is a national recognition of the quality of our certified teachers, the updated academic ESL curriculum, and other services we offer to our students.”

The Auburn Montgomery ESL program provides English language training to non-native speakers, including students who live abroad and want to improve their English language proficiency before entering an American university. Courses are designed to help students master the English language and succeed in their academic, professional and personal lives.

AUM ESL offers a number of program options for students of various ages and proficiency levels. The ESL Community Program offers classes in seven-week terms throughout the year to local residents of all ages, with flexible course schedules for those who need to fit the program around work or school demands. The Intensive English Program is geared toward international participants, ages 16 or older, willing to commit 22 hours per week for eight weeks of rigorous study.

July 9, 2012