Where to Study English in New York City?

New York City (NYC), New York, has some of the nation’s top-rated colleges and is one of the top destinations in the United States for international students.  So it's no surprise that there are many programs for students to learn English in New York City.

Whether you’re working toward personal, educational, or professional goals, there are many possibilities in NYC.  Below, we’ll share the best colleges, universities, and language schools for studying English in NYC.

English as a Second Language (ESL) and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs can help non-native English speakers improve their language proficiency.  English schools and programs in New York range from beginner to advanced, provide test or university preparation, teach career-readiness skills, and help you learn to communicate in English.  No matter your goals, there are many possibilities in NYC.

Not only is New York City one of the most diverse cities in the US, but there are many educational, professional, and fun opportunities.  With 5 boroughs, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, there are many areas of New York with many things to see and do.  Continue reading to discover the best places to study English in NYC.

Public Colleges with English Programs in New York City

If you want to learn English in New York at a public college, there are several excellent options.  Some offer courses to help you prepare for a degree program, while others welcome ESL students with some English proficiency ready to begin their traditional college experience.

  • Hunter College (https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/ieli/) is one of the highest-ranked public colleges in New York City, and its main campus is two blocks from the iconic Central Park.  The International English Language Institute (IELI) program at Hunter College helps students develop English skills.  Various courses focus on academic skills and test prep.  A summer intensive English language program is also available for beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.
  • The City College of New York (CCNY) (https://www.ccny.cuny.edu/cps/esl) is in Manhattan, a densely populated borough of NYC.  CCNY offers an Adult Education Program and free ESOL classes to help non-native English speakers develop grammar, reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.  The program also fosters skills needed for success in college and the workplace. 
  • If you’re hoping to study English online at a public college in NYC, Queens College (https://www.qc.cuny.edu/academics/el/english-language-program/) is an excellent option.  The campus is in the family-friendly Queens borough, but all ESL classes are virtual.  Classes range from low intermediate to advanced, teaching pronunciation, communication, reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
  • ESL students looking to get into criminal justice can study at The John Jay College of Criminal Justice (https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/esl-support-services) in Manhattan.  The John Jay College of Criminal Justice is a Hispanic and minority-serving institution that focuses on increasing diversity in the criminal justice workforce.  There are many ESL support services, including English classes, seminars, and tutoring to help you improve your language skills. 
  • Brooklyn College (http://academic.brooklyn.cuny.edu/esl/description.htm) is the largest public university in Brooklyn, a diverse NYC borough, and it’s a popular school for international students.  Brooklyn College’s classes can help you qualify for academics by improving your English reading, writing, and conversation skills.  There’s also an intensive program for students who need to prepare for or retake university assessment tests.
  • The Fashion Institute of Technology (https://www.fitnyc.edu/academics/academic-divisions/ccps/english-language-study/index.php) is a public college of design, fashion, and art in Manhattan that offers programs for ESL students.  There are many options, including certificates for Intensive English Language, fashion business, sustainability in fashion, and speaking courses.  There’s a wide range of credit and non-credit classes and certifications for various personal and professional goals.

 

Private Universities with English Programs in New York City

New York has some of the world’s best private universities.  Several are located in NYC and offer excellent English programs to help you meet any goals you may have. 

  • Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university, and its Teachers College (https://www.tc.columbia.edu/communitylanguage/) in Manhattan offers English and foreign language instruction to adult learners.  There are various courses at beginners, elementary, lower-intermediate, intermediate, and upper-intermediate levels.  There are also advanced studies.
  • If you already have some English proficiency and want to have a traditional university experience, New York University (NYU) (https://www.sps.nyu.edu/homepage/student-experience/International-Students.html) is an excellent option.  NYU has two campuses, one in Brooklyn and one in Manhattan.  It’s one of the largest private universities in the US, and its International Student Support Center (ISSC) offers support to international students to help them succeed in undergraduate and graduate programs and life in New York.  NYU also provides various English courses to help you obtain English mastery.
  • Fordham University (https://www.fordham.edu/academics/academic-resources/esl/) is a renowned Catholic university in The Bronx and has a special program for ESL students, the Institute of American Language and Culture.  The program helps students achieve English goals to prepare for a college degree, work, and daily life in New York City.  There are many learning opportunities, including various courses, intensive ESL, and free workshops. 
  • Pace University (https://www.pace.edu/eli) is a private NYC university with 3 campuses throughout the city.  Its English Language Institute helps students prepare for university, improve their general language, or enhance their career prospects.  Pace also offers courses for au pairs who need educational credits and students preparing for a test.  There are various programs, in-person and online, for students of all levels.
  • The New School (https://www.newschool.edu/esl/) is located in NYC’s Greenwich Village, a vibrant and diverse community.  It focuses on academic freedom and provides opportunities for progressive thinkers.  Its ESL certificate programs offer an introduction to university studies in the United States, preparation for working in English-speaking environments, and support in achieving personal goals. 

 

Other English Programs in New York City

If you want to learn English in New York without attending college or university, there are several English schools.  These provide various opportunities, classes, and programs to help you prepare for college, work, or daily life in the US.

  • DreamIT (http://dreamit.edu/) is a language school that offers basic, intermediate, and advanced courses.  You can learn English and improve your language skills for any practical, professional, and academic goals you have.  Learn in person, in real-time, at a culturally-rich educational facility in Midtown Manhattan
  • New York Language Center (https://www.nylanguagecenter.com/) has a reputation for its high-quality English education in a supportive environment and affordable prices.  There are three locations: Manhattan, Queens, and The Bronx.  There are various programs to help you meet your goals, including an intensive or semi-intensive language program, part and full-time English programs, weekend classes, and more.  There are also private lessons and special courses for test and career prep and personalized instruction.
  • Manhattan Language (https://www.manhattanlanguage.com/) is an independent language school in the center of Downtown Manhattan.  Their mission is to offer English language programs that are focused, accessible, and affordable.  Whether you’re an international student, professional, or tourist, there are various programs to fit your needs.  Courses include American English, test prep, business classes, one-on-one instruction, and online options.

Other things to consider:

 

We Can Help if You Need Assistance

Please contact our company if you are interested in studying English in New York City or have questions about the NYC 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.