How to choose an English school and course abroad
How to choose an English school and course abroad.
First of all we need to understand do we really need to study English abroad or taking course in our home country is a better option. Then we will learn how to choose the best course that fits our needs and, thirdly, if we decide to go abroad, how to get ready and prepare for the trip.
Why study English abroad?
Reasons and goals may be different. For example, you need to improve your conversational English to feel comfortable and confident when traveling, to pass the entrance exams to a foreign university or work in an international company. For each of these cases there are different types of schools and language courses.
To improve your conversational (everyday) English,
general courses, sport or summer language programs from two weeks up are the best. You can adjust the load from 15 to 44 hours a week, and explore the city after class. It is easier to practice your conversational English in small cities or tourist places – in Boracay, Cebu or Puraran. Choose places where you will have little chances to meet people who speak your native language, this will mean that you will speak in English more than in your native language. If you go together with the friend or make new friends who speak your language, play “English only game” – the person who speaks not in English will buy the other coffee, mango shake, or beer. This way you both will speak in English and will help each other to stay committed to your goal of improving English.
To pass the entrance exams to foreign universities, choose an IELTS or TOEFL preparation course.
It is better to take long-term programs from 4 weeks – this will give you enough time to prepare for the test, do mock tests, learn how to manage your time on the test and what type of questions you will need to answer during the test. Schools in Cebu and Boracay offer test preparation courses and are very experienced in preparing students for the tests.
To move your business to a new level, to communicate with your business partners, pitch your company at international events choose Business English courses or Public Speaking courses. You will learn how to write an email, make a proposal, presentation and how to carry negotiations with your colleagues and business partners.
What will you learn in different courses?
Each type of course: general, sport, intensive, business course or the IELTS / TOEFL preparation program – has its own syllabus. Let’s see what is taught and where.
Budget courses.
The course teaches basic English, focused on conversational English and pronunciation. Gives you half a day to explore new country, make new friends and interact with native English speakers.
General courses.
The course teaches grammar and correct pronunciation, develops writing skills and expands vocabulary. Suitable for beginners.
Intensive courses.
In the classroom you will improve your grammar, listening and communication skills in two to four weeks. Suitable for children and adults.
Business courses.
They will teach you how to make presentations and business documents, conduct negotiations and communicate with colleagues from different countries. Suitable for adults with intermediate and advanced levels.
Preparing for IELTS or TOEFL.
In the classroom you will practice doing mock tests, learn to quickly understand the tasks and write essays. Suitable for students and adults who need to pass an exam or enroll in a foreign university or college.
Fun and Sport courses
You will learn how to surf, kite surf, or dive one half of the day. The other half of the day will be dedicated to conversational English, pronunciation, grammar and slang vocabulary of your favorite sport, so you can communicate about your hobby with people all over the world.
What you need to study English abroad?
To go to study English abroad, you will need a visa and a minimum English (some schools accept students with zero English).
To quickly refresh your English skills, sign up for Skype classes or choose intensive courses.
