Frequently Asked Questions

Is AES different from other language schools?

Yes, definitely! We know your goal is to improve your English language skills quickly because you want to start your undergraduate or graduate courses and complete your degree as soon as possible.

AES offers two advantages that will help you realize your goal: experience and credit!

English classes for non-native speakers have been taught at Lewis & Clark for over 35 years. The faculty are all highly experienced, hold Master's degrees in TESL, have lived and taught overseas, and are active and well-regarded in regional and national professional organizations.

Lewis & Clark is unique because it offers academic credit for ESL classes. Students accepted as undergraduates at Lewis & Clark earn up to 24 credits for their work in English that they can apply to their degree program. Transfer of credit to other institutions is determined by the receiving institution.

How soon can I get an I-20?

The day you submit all your documents, our Admissions Committee will review your application and, if you are accepted, we will send your I-20 by an international courier within 24 hours.

The application materials are:

• a completed application form;
• a bank statement or certificate of financial guarantee;
• copies of transcripts or test results that demonstrate two years of English study. (A written statement may also be requested.)

What is the national makeup in your program?

Of course, this changes every term!

In Spring 2009, we enrolled students from China, Japan, Kuwait, Pakistan, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Sweeden, Taiwan, and Thailand.

What are my housing choices?

Most students share residence halls with American and international undergraduates. AES students are paired with American roommates so they can practice their English outside of class. Single rooms may be available if requested in advance. The Lewis & Clark campus is a safe, beautiful residential campus on a forested hill six miles from downtown Portland, Oregon.

Check out the Campus Living page for more information about the residence halls.

Some international students choose to live with an American host family. If you are interested in a homestay, contact ANDEO-International Homestays. ANDEO is a non-profit organization that finds American homes for international students. The monthly fee includes meals.

If you prefer to live off campus, we can provide you with a list of local apartments to get you started on your search.

Do I have to take the TOEFL?

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is not required for admission to AES.

If you would like to take the TOEFL, Lewis & Clark offers the iBT version several times a year. AES students get priority in registration.

Do you offer free airport pick ups?

Yes. Just be sure you let us know your flight arrival information in advance so that we can arrange to have someone to pick you up. You can tell us your flight information on this page. This is part of the individualized attention our students receive!

Can my wife/husband take English classes too?

If your husband or wife is here on an F-2 visa, and would like to take an academically oriented English class for personal enjoyment, then yes, he or she can take a class with us.

If your spouse wants to learn English to eventually start a degree program, he or she will need to file for a change of status. People on an F-2 visa cannot take classes that they will use to prepare for future study or a future degree.

How much is the tuition?

For details on all charges, click here.

Do you have scholarships?

International students admitted to Lewis & Clark are eligible for scholarship awards that may be applied to their English language study in AES.

The Dallaire Scholarship is available to students from sub-saharan Africa for one academic year of English language study. Contact AES for information on the scholarship application procedure.

Can I get help with my undergraduate or graduate applications?

Each student is assigned an AES faculty member as an advisor. This advisor will help you with your adjustment to life in the US, any academic counseling you may need, and information and help with university applications.

AES students prepairing for graduate school may also seek advise from the Lewis & Clark office of Center for Career and Community Engagement.

Can you put me in touch with a current student?

Yes, of course! Contact us and we will make arrangements.