Where to Study English in Portland, Oregon?

If you’re interested in improving your language proficiency, there are many universities, colleges, and programs to study English in Portland, Oregon.  These programs help international students, business executives, and professionals learn the necessary skills to succeed in education, work, and life in the United States or other English-speaking settings. 

Schools that focus on English as a Second Language (ESL) and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) can help students and employees who are non-native English speakers achieve English language goals.  You can find various opportunities in Portland to learn English, including beginner courses to advanced programs.  Learn different skills, including basic mastery, expanding on your current English knowledge, and job or test preparation.

ELLs (English Language Learners) can access many learning possibilities in Portland to meet personal, academic, or business goals.  From large public colleges to smaller private schools and programs, there’s something for everyone.

International students appreciate Portland because it has a lively, rich culture with welcoming locals.  Most of Portland’s educational institutions also have programs that foster success as an international student.  When you aren’t studying English, you can enjoy incredible local dining experiences, natural beauty, and a vibrant art scene.

Below, we’ll share colleges, universities, and programs where you can study English in Portland and nearby cities.

Public University English Programs in Portland

Several public universities in Portland offer programs for international students and support for those learning English.  While only one of these universities is centrally located in Portland, the others are nearby.

  • Portland State University is a public research university, and its Center for International & English Learning (CIEL) (https://www.pdx.edu/center-for-international-and-english-learning/) offers various programs and services for ELLs. Short- and long-term programs last anywhere from a week to a year.  There are various English Language courses, extracurricular activities, and housing options.  You can choose between remote or on-campus programs, and there’s also the possibility to customize your program.  Many students especially appreciate Portland State University’s central location in downtown Portland.
  • If you prefer to attend school further from the city, you can attend Western Oregon University (https://wou.edu/international/), about an hour south of Portland in Monmouth, OR.  Although ESL students must show English proficiency in language testing scores, the school's Office of International Education & Development works with international students to ensure success.  There’s also a tutoring center on campus for further support.
  • Oregon State University (OSU) (https://admissions.oregonstate.edu/international/programs/english-study-abroad-programs/academic-english) is located in Corvallis, OR, about an hour and a half south of Portland.  Although it's not in Portland proper, it's an excellent option for students who want to learn English skills to attend university or work in an English-speaking setting.  OSU's Academic English (A.E.) program offers support and programs that promote academic, professional, and personal success for ESL students.  Students can take various courses to learn listening, speaking, reading, writing, test prep, and academic study skills. 

 

Private College or University English Programs in Portland

If you're interested in attending a private college or university to improve your English proficiency, Portland offers several possibilities.  There are various program options to help you meet your goals and find housing opportunities if needed.

  • The University of Portland (UP) (https://www.up.edu/iss/prospective-students/index.html) is a private Catholic university located on the Willamette River in Portland, offering ideal river scenery.  The university is often considered among the best in Oregon and welcomes international students for traditional college or conditional admission.  Under conditional admission, ELL students who need more time to prepare for the language proficiency requirement can study English in Portland at UP before beginning university classes. 
  • Lewis & Clark College is a private liberal arts college with an Academic English Studies (AES) program (https://www.lclark.edu/programs/academic_english_studies/) that provides courses for students learning English and intercultural competency.  The program helps ELLs prepare for success at Lewis & Clark College or other schools and work in the United States and worldwide.  You can take various content-based classes that foster advanced English language mastery and further critical thinking and other skills.
  • Warner Pacific University, a private Christian university in Portland, is home to Pacific International Academy (PIA) (https://www.piaschools.edu/).  The university has been recognized for its commitment to diversity for many years, and U.S. News & World Report recently ranked the school #1 In “Ethnic Diversity in the West.”  ESL students can attend PIA to prepare for university in the US and explore American culture through various programs, including Intensive English, service learning, and group courses.  If you need accommodation, PIA has homestay and apartment opportunities.
  • Multnomah University is another private Christian university in Portland with a TESOL program (https://www.multnomah.edu/esol/) offering free English classes for ELLs in the community.  There are beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes that take place weekly.  Multnomah University (https://www.multnomah.edu/international-student-admissions/) also accepts international students with required English language proficiency into its traditional university program.  There is various support for students, including financial aid, employment assistance, and campus events.
  • Reed College, a private college of liberal arts and science, is a small college located on a unique campus in Portland that provides opportunities for international students (https://www.reed.edu/apply/guide-to-applying/international/index.html) seeking a traditional college experience.  Although students must meet English language proficiency requirements for admission, there are resources for ELLs at Reed College, including coaching and tutoring.

 

Other English Schools & Programs in Portland

If you prefer not to attend a traditional college or university, there are a couple of choices.  These programs can help you prepare for a test, improve your English skills, and meet other language goals.

  • Portland English Language Academy (PELA) (https://portlandenglish.edu/) offers English language classes, tutoring, conversation groups, and social activities.  Each term lasts four weeks, with 12 start dates per year.  Programs include Intensive or Semi-Intensive English, an English mastery class for au pairs, and test preparation.  PELA also offers support with housing and university placement.
  • If you’re a member of the Hispanic community hoping to study English in Portland, Edúcate Ya (https://www.educateya.org/clases-de-ingleacutes.html) is a language school and non-profit organization that supports Latino adults through various programs, including private and group English language classes. 

Other things to consider:

 

We Can Help if You Need Assistance

Please contact our company if you are interested in studying English in Portland, OR, or have questions about the Portland 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.