University of Colorado at Boulder English Language Standalone Program

Language Standalone
Globally Recognized
Delivery Method:
In-Person
Duration:
Multi Term, Single Term

About the Program

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. 

Hear CU Boulder’s NASA story at the Fiske Planetarium and Heritage Center

Lakes, creeks, and red-tiled buildings framed by the snow-tipped Rockies

5 Nobel laureates, 10 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 18 astronauts

Head outside and enjoy 300 miles of running trails and bike paths

Program Advisor

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Student Counselor 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.
Schedule a Consultation

At a Glance

Language of Instruction:
English
Language Prerequisite Level:
None
Academic Level:
Undergraduate
Academic Strengths:
Biological & Physical Sciences, Computer Science, Law, Engineering, Music, Film & Performing Arts
Housing:
Residence Hall
Visa Required:
Maybe

Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad

WHAT STUDENTS SAY

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Life at UC Boulder was very happy. The students in the school are very kind, and the professors were are considerate and caring.

University of Colorado, Boulder SAF Alumni

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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.

Courses

At the beginning of the program, you take a placement test to determine your level . 

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.
  • Language Proficiency
  • Academics & GPA
  • Application Documents & Materials

Language Test Score Requirements

There are no requirements to join this program. A language test when you arrive determines your skill level. No prior test is necessary to participate.

Learn More About Language Requirements

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.

Spring 2024 Language Standalone + Summer 2024 Language Standalone + Fall 2024 Language Standalone

Program dates:
Mid March - Mid December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
46,010

Fall 2024 Language Standalone

Program dates:
Mid August - Mid December
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
22,400

Fall 2024 Language Standalone + Winter 2025 Language Standalone + Spring 2025 Language Standalone

Program dates:
Mid August - Early May
Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
$
40,770

Housing Information

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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

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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.

Learn more about Boulder

The Student Experience

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Student Health & Safety

We champion health, safety, and security. As part of IES Abroad, the largest study abroad organization in the United States, we have set the standard for health and safety in study abroad for decades. We plan for the ‘what if’, so you can get on with the experience of a lifetime.
International Health Insurance

International health insurance included in the cost of your program

24/7 Emergency Phone Support

Total coverage to support you while traveling and in your new city

Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information prepared based on your destination

Health In Your Language

Highly trained multilingual staff to connect you to healthcare providers

Secure Housing

Quality, safe, secure housing within close proximity to your classes

Dedicated Expertise

Protection by a Dean of Students Office advocating for your interests

Orientation

On Arrival

Your SAF pre-departure process will arm you with all the information you need for a smooth arrival to your new campus, city, and country.

To Housing

Your SAF program will include a safe transfer from your arrival airport to your new study abroad housing. We'll even provide you with top tips to make the most of your new city!

Home Sweet Home

Your SAF Program Specialist will coordinate with you to ensure you have arrived safely and settled into your new secure housing.

Keeping You Safe

As you settle in, you will learn about the SAF emergency alert system, our 24/7 phone support, and any safety concerns relevant to you.

Get Social

Your new university and SAF will arrange social and cultural events so that you can meet other study abroad and local students. Make the most of your adventure!

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

Student Blogs

Upcoming Events

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Apr
Seminar
Apr 17, 2024

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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.

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