Anyone who thinks that studying abroad is just enrolling in an educational institution abroad and starting studies is wrong. Quite the opposite! There are a multitude of English course types, which vary depending on a number of factors – your objective, level of fluency, length of study, and many others.
This is really cool, as it allows the student to choose which modality they want to attend and the one that best fits their profiles. With that in mind, we decided to prepare this article to show the main types of English courses that exist and what their differences are.
In the next topics, we hope to help you when choosing English course to study. Let’s check it out?
Check out 5 types of English courses
- General English Course
Among the types of English courses, General English is one of the most sought after course (and for its reasons!). After all, it doesn’t require prerequisites and institutions are much more flexible regarding fluency levels. In other words: there is a vacancy for those who already know a little of the language or are taking their first steps, and even for those who want to start from scratch.
Another nice point of General English courses, at least in countries like Australia and New Zealand, is that the schools are super good with their schedules, as they start classes every week and the student can choose the period they want to study. Very quiet, right?
Ah, and taking advantage of the hook of these Oceanian countries, international students who enrolls in any course lasting 14 weeks or longer still earns a paid work permit. Perfect for those who want to improve their tongue and, to top it off, make that stocking!
- English for professionals course (English for professionals)
Those who intend to embark on an exchange program to boost their curriculum will find different types of English courses focused on business. The institutions that offer these programs develop specific content and methodologies, according to the profile and needs of professionals in each area.
Thus, grammar and vocabulary are worked in a more consistent way with the student’s field of activity. In addition, classes turn to the day-to-day of a work environment, allowing the student to practice English in documents, emails, meetings, etc.
Check out some of the English courses for professionals that exist in exchange programs:
- English for business;
- English for hotels and tourism;
- English for healthcare;
- English for engineering
- English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Course
The EAP (English for Academic Purposes) is another type of English course offered while choosing course to study, but more suitable for students who aim to improve the language for an academic life in the destination country. In other words: the public is formed by those who intend to take technical or university courses (undergraduate, graduate, doctoral) and already have an intermediate level of fluency.
The English for Academic Purposes course trains international student in the four fundamental communication skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. In addition, EAP works with specific methodologies, focused on the content required by institutions and universities, developing skills for research, presentations, studies and works.
The modality is usually available in language schools or language centers of the universities themselves – the choice is at the discretion of the exchange student. However, it is noteworthy that the second option usually gives direct access to university courses according to the student’s performance (thus, the presentation of the IELTS or TOEFL exam is dispensed with).
- Preparation for IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
The IELTS is, without a doubt, the most accepted English proficiency exam in the world. It certifies that the student has command of the language and is able to enroll in a university or a technical course in the country.
Therefore, IELTS preparation is one of the types of English courses that can be taken befores studying abroad. Its objective is to familiarize the candidate with the procedures and content that institutions require, through exercises, previous tests or varied simulations.
In addition, IELTS helps international students to improve their fluency and English language skills, such as vocabulary, grammar, conversation and writing. To enter the course, it is a basic requirement to have an intermediate level in English.
- TESOL Course (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
Among the types of English courses offered abroad, TESOL is suitable for those who intend to teach the language, that is, teachers and education professionals. Thus, the content is entirely aimed at those who already have English as a second language.
In order for you to better understand the structure of a TESOL course, we have separated what is offered in the classes:
- improvement and improvement of the essential skills of the professional: reading, grammar, writing and pronunciation;
- planning, organization and methodologies of classes;
- criteria for evaluating students at different levels;
- academic curriculum development;
- teaching techniques for different purposes.
Learn how to choose the most suitable English course
In this content, we only talk about some types of English courses for exchange students, but you can be sure that there are many other possibilities for study abroad. While an initiative like this opens the door to endless opportunities, we know that making the right decision can yield some basic research and doubts. This is normal!
So, we’ve separated some foolproof tips to help you make the right choice. Check out:
- do a thorough research on your chosen destination, including the main cities, lifestyle, traditions, customs, gastronomy, local entertainment, etc.;
- take into account some factors such as the climate, the cost of living in the place, among others;
- research government facilities such as student employment programs, types of visas available, and rights granted;
- search for agencies specialized in overseas study and clear all possible doubts.
Anyway, as we said, there are many types of English courses available in exchange programs. Without a doubt, they all provide the student with experiences and skills that are not comparable to any other study model. Therefore, anyone looking for fluency in the language (and also to experience unforgettable moments) should not think twice!