Safety and Systems Management Building 107
(213) 740-0079
FAX: (213) 740-8549
Email: broxson@usc.edu

Director: David E. Eskey, Ph.D.

Purpose of the Program

The American Language Institute provides instruction in English as a Second Language for international students at USC. Before beginning studies with ALI, all students must be admitted to the university, either for a degree objective or for English study only. The institute provides student advisement.

Placement in the Program

Most international students entering USC must take the International Student English Examination (ISE). The examination is offered approximately two weeks before the beginning of classes each semester and summer session. The purpose of this examination is to evaluate the level of proficiency of the individual student. On the basis of the scores achieved, students are placed at the appropriate levels of instruction. In some cases, no further instruction in English is required.

All new undergraduate international students must enroll in 010x Orientation for International Students during their first semester at USC.

Limitation on Enrollment

Any undergraduate international student must complete ALI requirements within the first four semesters of course work attempted at USC, including summer sessions, to remain academically eligible to pursue a degree program at USC. (Students starting at the 090 level may be permitted five semesters.) Any graduate international student must complete ALI requirements within the first two semesters of course work attempted at USC, including summer sessions, to remain academically eligible to pursue a degree program at USC. (Students starting at the 210 level may be permitted three semesters.)

Up to 12 units of ALI courses numbered 100 or above (that is, non-remedial) may earn degree credit.

Students not meeting the ALI requirement will not be allowed to continue at USC. The Committee on Academic Policies and Procedures will consider appeals if submitted within 10 working days of being dropped from ALI. Contact the Academic Review Department (SAS 113) for details.