Where to Study English in Boston?

There are many schools and programs where international students, professionals, and business executives can study English in Boston and enhance their language skills to prepare for education and work in the United States.

English as a Second Language (ESL) and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs can help students and employees who aren’t native English speakers achieve English language proficiency.  These programs range from beginner courses to advanced opportunities to meet students where they are.  Various options cater to those new to learning English who need a basic introduction, people with some background in the language interested in expanding those skills, and individuals looking for help with test, job, or university preparation.

Boston provides many options to English language learners (ELL) with academic, business, or personal goals.  The possibilities are endless with renowned schools like The University of Massachusetts and Harvard and smaller programs.

Boston, known as a classic American college town, attracts students from all over the world.  It’s also considered New England's most international city. 

This charming and vibrant city offers the ideal mix of education, culture, and history.  There’s always something compelling to see or do in Boston when you aren’t studying.  It’s home to diverse shops, cafes, restaurants, sports venues, and local events and entertainment.

Most of Boston’s colleges, universities, and other English programs are conveniently located throughout the city.  There are also educational possibilities outside of the city’s center.  We’ll share these below.

Public College or University English Programs

Several public colleges and universities offer programs and courses for students to study English in Boston.  Students with academic and professional goals can get college credits or attend non-credit classes.

  • The University of Massachusetts (https://www.umb.edu/academics/global/isss), also known as UMass, is a global research university that welcomed its first international students in 1870.  Today, there are more than 7,300 international students at UMass.  UMass provides many resources for international students, including help with immigration and employment status.  Students' test results help with appropriate course placement, and their ESL program course sequence allows students to grow their communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. 
  • Bunker Hill Community College (https://www.bhcc.edu/academics/englishlanguagelearningprograms/) is the largest community college in Massachusetts and offers many English Language Learning (ELL) programs, from beginner to advanced.  Some beginner to intermediate courses are non-credit community education classes, while intermediate to advanced programs allow students to earn college credit toward completion of an associate's degree. 

 

Private College or University English Programs

Boston is home to several prominent private colleges and universities, many of which offer opportunities for students to learn or improve their English skills.  These institutes can also help international students with the moving process and find housing opportunities.  If you’re interested in studying both English and music or art, check out Berklee College of Music below.

  • Boston University (BU) is the fourth-largest private university in the US, and its Center for English Language & Orientation Programs (CELOP) (https://www.bu.edu/celop/) is a leading institute.  BU and CELOP offer higher education opportunities to help students and professionals from over 100 countries improve their English and understanding of American culture.  Various programs are available, including Intensive English, programs with a professional focus, University Preparation, and Part-Time English.  CELOP also creates custom programs to meet students where they are
  • Suffolk University (https://www.suffolk.edu/admission/international-students) is a private institution that welcomes students from all over the globe.  There are diverse options for ESL and ESOL students, including INTO Suffolk, a program for those who don’t meet academic and/or English requirements yet but want to start earning credits towards a degree while taking courses to learn or improve English skills.
  • The historic Harvard University's Academy at Harvard Square (https://www.theacademy.ac/) provides education programs to international students and professionals.  Its diverse TOEFL and ESL programs, including a University Program, Professional Education, English School, and Test Prep, help individuals achieve academic and professional goals.
  • Boston College, located just outside the city in Chestnut Hill, is the first higher education institution in Boston and is nowadays the area's leading university.  Its Program for English Language Learning (https://www.bc.edu/content/bc-web/schools/mcas/departments/english/undergrad/ell.html) supports English language development for undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds.  Students are placed into a course sequence for their freshman year after taking an English language assessment prior to starting the school year.
  • Students who want to study English in Boston while learning music or art can attend Berklee College of Music (https://college.berklee.edu/courses/leng-104).  Their English as a Second Language course helps students develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills that individuals need to succeed in college courses and life in the United States.

 

Other English Schools & Programs

Boston also features many English schools and programs for those not interested in attending college or university.  The following institutes offer varied opportunities, including test prep courses, homestay and other accommodation choices, professional development training, and various English language learning classes.

  • Students from around the world attend Boston International Academy (https://bia.edu/) to study English.  It’s an accredited school outside Boston city, in Brighton, MA, and its student body includes professors, doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and others with goals to achieve English language mastery.  Boston International Academy offers ESL classes, TOEFL preparation, social activities and events, and housing assistance.
  • LSI Boston (https://www.lsi.edu/en/schools/usa/learn-english-in-boston) is a state-of-the-art language school conveniently located in Boston's city center.  Students can access various ESL programs and courses, a resource library, and TOEFL exam prep courses. There are also off-campus and homestay accommodation options.
  • TALK English Schools (https://www.talk.edu/english-schools/boston/) has been helping students study English in Boston since 1996, with more than 100,000 graduates over the years.  They offer general and specialized English courses, in-depth one-to-one classes, family packages, and professional experience.  TALK English Schools aim to provide international students with high-quality, affordable English and professional development training through effective methodology and technology while fostering cultural and social growth. 
  • English School Boston (https://elc.edu/locations/boston/boston-english-school/) has an English Language Center that provides many English program choices, including General English, test prep courses, Business English, English Plus, and more than 50 other options.  English Boston School is also in the heart of the city and within walking distance of many activities and iconic sites.  Students also have access to a free academic tutoring hall, student lounge, and computer access.  If you’re looking for accommodation in Boston, English School Boston has a Housing Coordinator that’ll help you arrange this.

 

Other things to consider:

  • Most visitors to the United States planning to study as full-time students usually require a visa.  We recommend visiting the US Embassy website in your home country to learn more about the visa process.  You can also visit the following government website that provides a detailed guide to studying in the United States: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/guide-to-studying-in-the-states
  • It is recommended to purchase health insurance to protect yourself from unexpected illness and medical expenses while studying in the United States.  Health insurance for international students can be purchased through Travel Insurances Services by accessing the following website: https://my.travelinsure.com/studyusa/?pcode=133322

We Can Help if You Need Assistance

Please contact our company if you are interested in studying English in Boston or have questions about the Boston area.  Using our network of colleges and universities in the United States, we may be able to help you select the right school for your specific educational goals.  Please email Michael at michael@visasupply.com if you have questions or require assistance.