Established in 1857, the historic San Jose State University sits at the heart of one of the most forward-facing neighborhoods in the world: Silicon Valley. The public university is an important partner in the economic, cultural, and social development of the local community, delivering world-class teaching in a city proud of its Spanish history. Study here to be at the frontier of the worldwide digital revolution.
San Jose State University English Language Pathway Program
About the Program
Program Advisor
SAFFY
Your Student Counselor is your study abroad ambassador and supporter. They join your application journey when you’ve confirmed you’re interested in studying abroad. At this point, they guide you through each stage of the application, notify you of the documents you need, let you know when your admission results are in, and walk you through the next steps, including class enrollment and organizing pre-arrival tests.
At a Glance
Language of Instruction:
English
Language Prerequisite Level:
Intermediate
Academic Level:
Undergraduate
Academic Strengths:
Sociology,
Biological & Physical Sciences,
Business, Economics & Finance,
Engineering,
Music, Film & Performing Arts
Housing:
On-campus apartment
Visa Required:
Maybe
Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad
WHAT STUDENTS SAY
Jaewon Kim
San Jose State University is right near Silicon Valley, and many of those big tech companies hold job fairs, which is exciting.
San Jose State University SAF Alumni
About the University
San Jose State University
Established in 1857, SJSU is the oldest California state university, but its San Jose campus sits at the heart of one of the most forward-facing neighborhoods in the world, Silicon Valley. This is where world-changing tech firms, such as Apple, Facebook, and Google, are headquartered alongside behemoth corporations Visa, Wells Fargo, and Chevron. The relationships between the university and local organizations are strong, partnered as they are in enhancing the economic, cultural, and social development of their local environment and communities.
Beyond its impressive inhabitants, San Jose has a beautifully preserved city center, rich in Spanish-colonial architecture and history. Its food, too, has strong Spanish influences.
Learn more at San Jose State University's official website.
Academics
San Jose State University's Academic Approach
The program delivers a personalized approach to teaching in small classes and individual academic advising. You also get involved in weekly student activities, conversation clubs, and an active cultural exchange partner program.
Courses
On the pathway program, you must achieve a B average in your courses and score 550+PBT toward the end of term on institutional TOEFL.
Provides you achieve a 71 TOEFL or 6.0 IELTS before the beginning of the next semester, you can progress into academic courses.
Classroom Hours
You have 20 hours per week of language classes. Classes meet for two hours each day Monday through Friday7, with morning and afternoon schedules covering the core courses:
- Oral Communication
- Written Communication
- Reading Skills
*SAF program fee tuition rate is based upon enrollment in 20 hours of language instruction per week.
Language Levels
There are eight proficiency levels, from low beginner to advanced.
Elective Courses
You can choose from the following elective courses:
- English through Music
- American History
- TOEFL Preparation
- Business English
- Presentation Skills
- Pronunciation
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Application Requirements
When applying to study abroad, you must meet the entry requirements set by the host university—and SAF is here to set you up for success.
The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
Language Test Score Requirements
To prove your language proficiency, you can use any of the following:
- IELTS: 5.5
- iBT TOEFL: 61
Program Dates
When studying abroad, you will want to consider the time of year and how long you are away. Most programs follow the host university's academic calendar.
The dates shown below are general estimates, and as you get closer to the start of the term, you will get more detailed information from SAF. If you have any questions, your Student Counsellor and Program Specialist are always here to support you and point you to the correct information.
Fall 2023 Language Pathway + Spring 2024 Academic
Program dates:
Mid August - Mid May
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
40,460
Spring 2024 Language Pathway + Summer 2024 Language Pathway + Fall 2024 Academic
Program dates:
Early March - Mid December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
43,440
Housing Information
On-Campus Apartment
The SAF program fee covers shared room in an on-campus dormitory with a shared bathroom. Some dormitories may include a shared kitchen and living space. Shared living is a fundamental part of the American academic experience.
*Housing is subject to availability. For specific questions regarding housing please contact SAF.
About San Jose
Why San Jose
The epicenter of tech-hub Silicon Valley, San Jose has a thrilling, quirky vibe. Hang out with future-facing locals in the downtown restaurants, the live music venues, and produce-rich farmer’s market. Shining over the Spanish-colonial architecture, history, and cuisine, San Jose has 300 days of sun a year and a mild climate, which draws everyone outdoors to explore the world-class hiking hills, surf beaches, and the stunning Pacific Coast Highway.
The Student Experience
My First American Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is the festival for harvest and being grateful for being blessed in the past year.
Orientation
Advising and Support
The process of studying abroad could quickly feel overwhelming, but we have been doing this for decades and do everything we can to support you through it.
Many SAF staff are alumni and have walked this path. They have real-life experience to draw on as they advise and support you through every step of our comprehensive services. They’re in your corner, taking care of all the details and explaining what you need to do next.
Take the first step in your study abroad journey by scheduling a consultation with your closest Student Counselor. You can discuss your for-credit academic courses and language programs and explore internships, research programs, and study tours. When you know what you want to do, we guide you through the pre-program steps, help you arrange your visa and transport, and finalize your accommodation or digital experience.
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Commonly Asked Questions About Studying Abroad
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Why Travel With SAF?
Studying abroad is an unforgettable experience, one that stays with you in your career, your contacts, your future. It can define you. At any of our prestigious university partners, you can build personalized for-credit programs that can last up to a whole year.
