Where to Study English in San Diego?

There are many schools and programs where you can study English in San Diego, California.  Whether you’re an international student, professional, or business executive, you can attend a university, college, or language school in San Diego to improve your English proficiency.

English as a Second Language (ESL) or English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programs are designed to help non-native English speakers achieve language goals.  Programs range from beginner to advanced, with courses that can meet you where you are.  Whether you need basic English lessons, have some English background and want to improve your skills, or are preparing for work, university, or life in the United States, San Diego offers many options.

No matter which program you choose, San Diego is an excellent location to attend school, start a career, and live.  The city of San Diego is in San Diego County, an area that covers over 4,000 square miles.  There’s so much to see and do, and pleasant weather year-round, making this one of the best cities in America to study English. 

When you aren’t studying English in San Diego, you can spend time at the beach, attend local events, and visit world-famous attractions.  There are many ways to get around to explore and attend school; whether by foot, public transportation, car, or bike rentals.

Most of San Diego’s colleges, universities, and language schools are conveniently located in popular areas.  There are other options outside the city center if you’re looking for a quieter location.  Continue reading to learn more about the best places to study English in San Diego.

Public Colleges and Universities with English Programs in San Diego

Not only does San Diego County have a couple of universities, but there are also many community colleges where you can study English.  Whether you’re looking for a traditional university experience or hope to attend classes part or full-time, there are many options.

  • The University of California (UC) San Diego’s English Language Institute (https://extendedstudies.ucsd.edu/international-programs/english-language-institute) has programs for students with high-beginning to advanced English language proficiency.  General English programs help ESOL students develop academic, professional, and conversation skills.  There are eight levels of instruction, and students take a placement test to determine their appropriate level.  Housing is available for students who want on-campus, near-campus, or host family accommodations.
  • San Diego State University (SDSU)’s Global Campus (https://ali.sdsu.edu/programs#26) offers various programs to help you meet your specific goals.  Programs include course-only (without college admission), Intensive English, and University Pathways to prepare for education in the US.  There are also customized programs if you’re ready to prepare for a career in the US.  Housing options are also available, including off-campus accommodation and American family homestays.
  • San Diego Mesa College’s English Language Acquisition Program (ELAC) (https://www.sdmesa.edu/academics/v2/programs/english/elac.shtml) helps beginner ELLs prepare for work, education, and life in the US.  You’ll take ELAC courses before college-level English classes if you need to improve your English proficiency.  The ELAC courses can help you learn or improve your listening, reading, grammar, speaking, and writing skills.
  • San Diego Miramar College also has an ELAC program (https://sdmiramar.edu/programs/english-language-acquisition-elac).  Students can earn the Advanced ELAC Certificate after successfully completing ELAC coursework in writing, reading, listening, speaking, and critical thinking.  The ELAC program is ideal for students who want to prepare for work or college in the US.
  • San Diego City College’s ELAC program (https://www.sdcity.edu/academics/schools-programs/arts-humanities-comms/english/elac/index.aspx) helps students with intermediate to advanced English skills improve their proficiency.  All classes focus on English communication to help you prepare for college in the US. 
  • Grossmont College (https://www.grossmont.edu/academics/programs/esl/index.php) is in El Cajon, a city in San Diego County. Grossmont’s ESL program has six levels and offers courses for non-native English speakers to improve their academic and professional language skills.  The curriculum can help you advance your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills to advance in college, work, or life in the US.  You’ll take a guided self-placement assessment to determine your ESL level for the most appropriate courses.
  • Cuyamaca College (https://www.cuyamaca.edu/academics/academic-and-career-pathways/language/english/english-as-as-second-language.php) is also in El Cajon, with five levels of courses to help you get a job or pursue a college degree in the US.  A counselor at Cuyamaca College will help you choose the best courses for your skill level, from beginner to advanced.

 

Private Colleges and Universities with English Programs in San Diego

If you’re hoping to study English in San Diego at a private college or university, there are a few online and in-person options.

  • The University of San Diego (USD) is a Catholic university with an English Language Academy (ELA) (https://pce.sandiego.edu/english-language-academy/).  The ELA program offers in-person and remote learning opportunities to improve your English proficiency.  You’ll take a placement test to ensure you’re placed in the appropriate level classes.  There are small class sizes for individualized learning with field trips to experience the American culture and reinforce your skills.  USD’s ELA will help you find on-campus or off-campus housing.
  • National University’s English Language Learning Certificate Program (https://www.nu.edu/degrees/certificate-programs/programs/english-language-learning-certificate-program/) is a self-paced, entirely online program.  You can enroll year-round for one of three certificate levels based on your English proficiency.  These programs are designed for non-native English speakers who want to learn English and develop professional communication skills or prep for a degree program at National University.
  • Southwestern College (https://catalog.swccd.edu/associate-degree-certificate-programs/english-second-language/) is a community college just outside of San Diego in Chula Vista.  This is an excellent option if you want to be slightly away from the city in a quiet area.  Southwestern College’s ESL courses can help you prepare for college or university admissions.  With the Academic ESL Program, you’ll take a placement test to determine the most appropriate courses for you.  If you’re ready for entry into college or university, Southwestern’s ESL support classes can be taken for language assistance if needed at any point during college classes.

 

Language Schools to Study English in San Diego

If you aren’t ready for or interested in attending college, there are other reputable programs in San Diego for studying English.  Whether you’re looking for college or career readiness, or US culture or conversation skills, these programs offer various programs to meet you where you are.

  • College of English Language (CEL) San Diego (https://www.englishcollege.com/san-diego-ca/language-school) offers general English skills courses and TOEFL Exam Prep with small class sizes.  You also get access to a lounge and computers.  CEL also provides housing via shared apartments, homestays, or hostels.
  • LSI San Diego (https://www.lsi.edu/en/schools/usa/learn-english-in-san-diego) offers various general and intensive English courses to help you develop academic, university preparation, and work skills.  If you’re looking for housing, LSI can help you find a homestay or independent accommodation.
  • Connect English (https://www.connectenglishsandiego.com/) is an English school with many programs to meet your learning needs.  Programs include General English, Business English, TOEFL, and College Pathway.  There’s also an online English Goals program to develop conversation skills.
  • Converse International School of Languages (CISL) (https://cisl.edu/) has been helping ELLs for over 50 years and has been internationally recognized for its language programs.  With a class size maximum of eight students, you can get individualized instruction.  CISL offers Standard and Intensive English Programs and speaking, Business English, and Academic English courses.  You can also take test preparation classes at CISL.  Community activities with CISL help you experience local culture, including hiking, taking weekend trips, and visiting local attractions.  If you need accommodation, CISL has residence halls and homestay opportunities.

Other things to consider:

 

We Can Help if You Need Assistance

Please contact our company if you are interested in studying English in San Diego or have questions about the San Diego 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.