Founded in 1876 and nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Rocky Mountains, the University of Colorado serves as a nexus for innovation and is the top NASA-funded public university in the world. NASA has sent 20 university scientists, faculty, and alumni on 52 space missions, and the institution continues to produce world-changing research in aerospace. Notable alumni include the actor Robert Redford, who founded the Sundance Film Festival.
University of Colorado at Boulder 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
GPA Requirements:
2.50
Academic Level:
Undergraduate
Academic Strengths:
Biological & Physical Sciences,
Computer Science,
Law,
Engineering,
Music, Film & Performing Arts
Housing:
Residence Hall
Visa Required:
Required
Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad
WHAT STUDENTS SAY
Sang Hee Back
UC Boulder has a beautiful campus—one of the most beautiful campuses in the United States, with the Rocky Mountains right behind the school.
University of Colorado, Boulder SAF Alumni
About the University
University of Colorado, Boulder
Since 1876, University of Colorado, Boulder (CU Boulder) has been about changing the world and rising above. For the whole CU Boulder community, the sky is the limit. Determination rings through its corridors; boundary pushing sits in its lecture halls. It has a spirit unlike any other and the courage to be “free of preconceptions.”
In the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, scenic Boulder gets 300-plus days for sunshine a year and moderate weather, making it an ideal city for outdoor enthusiasts, calling you to walk, hike, and bike through its 300 miles of trails and 45,000 acres of open space.
Learn more at University of Colorado, Boulder's official website.
Academics
University of Colorado, Boulder's Academic Approach
The Intensive English Program at the International English Center organizes special cultural and community-based field trips and excursions to Boulder, Denver and other important Colorado destinations. These include visits to museums, national and state parks, local farms, theaters, art galleries, restaurants and other cultural points of interest.
In this environment, you have lots of opportunities to socialize, learn new skills, and develop your English fluency and confidence.
In addition to social activities, the IEC faculty and staff work closely with the CU-Boulder admissions office to facilitate university admissions processes so you can progress to your academic coursework.
Courses
At the beginning of the program, you take a placement test to determine your level placement. To meet the English language proficiency requirements progress to an academic semester, you must complete the highest level at the IEC (Advanced 2), with a total GPA of 3.0, and a final grade of B- or higher for your final session.
Classroom Hours
The SAF program fee tuition rate is based upon enrollment in 20 hours of language instruction per week.
There are eight language levels, each with proficiency-appropriate electives.
Electives
Lower Level Electives:
- Grammar Foundations
- Life Skills
- Pronunciation Foundations
- Speak Out
- Sports & Nutrition
- Vocabulary & Idioms
Higher Level Electives
- Academic Vocabulary
- Business English
- Communicating about Math
- English for STEM
- English through Video Presentation
- Test Prep
- US History and Culture
- Volunteering
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: 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: 65
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 - Early May
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
57,140
Spring 2024 Language Pathway + Summer 2024 Language Pathway+ Fall 2024 Academic
Program dates:
Mid March - Mid December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
59,990
Housing Information
Off-Campus Apartment
During your time at CU Boulder, you have a shared accommodation off-campus. As a university family, you may share your self-catering kitchen, the living area, and laundry.
*Housing is subject to availability. For specific questions regarding housing please contact SAF.
About Boulder
Why Boulder
In the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, scenic Boulder gets 300-plus days of sunshine a year, making it an ideal city for outdoor exploring. Its legendary snowsports, walking, hiking, climbing, and biking have inspired a thriving outdoors industry alongside its role in the aerospace and pharmaceutical sectors. For art galleries, shopping, and a cute American experience, brick-paved Pearl Street open mall is a welcoming spot.
The Student Experience
New Student, New Classroom
It's hard being the new kid at school--especially when studying abroad! However, with these tips and tricks, you can get through it.
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
Related Programs
Language Standalone
Globally Recognized
Boulder, West
Colorado, Boulder English Standalone Program
Academic
Globally Recognized
Boulder, West
Colorado, Boulder Academic Program
Academic
Times Top 100
Los Angeles, West
UCLA Virtual Certificate in Cybersecurity
Academic
Times Top 100
Los Angeles, West
UCLA Certificate in Data Science
Student Blogs
SAF launches summer program at University of the Arts London across two world-class campuses
SAF proudly introduces the Summer Arts Program at the University of the Arts London (UAL), offering immersive experiences at Central Saint Martins and the...
SAF partners with London School of Economics for its first summer program offer
SAF introduces the Summer Academic Program at the London School of Economics (LSE), providing a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in a...
Study at University of Pennsylvania this summer with SAF
SAF is excited to announce the IAPS Summer Language Standalone Program at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), a unique opportunity for students to...
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.
