USC American Language Institute

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USC American Language Institute (ALI)

USC American Language Institute (ALI) provides English language instruction, assessment and resources to support the academic and professional pursuits of international students and scholars.

The ability to communicate effectively in English — to read, write and speak the language fluently — is a vital tool in your future academic and professional success. USC students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in English at all levels of study.

For more information about USC’s English Language Requirements, please view the policies below.

Undergraduate Admission
Graduate Admission

The ALI offers two free English Placement Exams: the ISE Exam and the ITA Exam.

International Student English (ISE) Exam

International Teaching Assistant (ITA) Exam

While many international students are required to take ALI courses as a continuing registration requirement, ALI classes are also available for international students as electives. Specialized courses are offered for International Teaching Assistants (ITAs).

Explore All Courses
Explore ITA Courses
USC ALI courses students

Conversation Groups run every semester and help international students practice conversational English language skills in an informal, comfortable setting. Conversation topics include American culture, university life, current events and other topics of interest.

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A group of international students at USC gathers around a table in a welcoming classroom setting, engaging in conversation and making peace signs. The students are participating in an ALI Conversation Group session, practicing English and discussing various topics in an informal and friendly environment.
A historic red brick building at USC with arched windows and statues on its facade, set against the backdrop of the Los Angeles skyline and mountains at sunset.

ALI offers English language courses for students seeking to improve their English skills or for those required to take classes after the International Student English (ISE) Exam. ALI also trains and tests the university’s international teaching assistants.

USC students relaxing in colorful hammocks strung between trees on a sunny day, reading and studying on a green campus lawn.