TESOL Certificate Requirements

Admission Requirements

No previous training in linguistics is required for admission. However, a background in a second language is recommended. The TESOL Certificate Program is open to nondegree students and to undergraduate and graduate students at American University. Applicants must have a 3.00 GPA on previous coursework.

International students must demonstrate competence in English, equivalent to a score of 600 or better on the paper-based TOEFL, 250 on the computer-based TOEFL, or 100 on the Internet-based TOEFL. Also, due to changes in USCIS policy, applicants to the TESOL Certificate Program (like students applying to Master's programs) must provide a statement of motivation. The statement of motivation is generally two to three pages in length. In addition, in order for AU to issue international students an I-20 form, the students need to supply the following: A completed Personal Immigration Information Request Form (PIIRF) Financial documents demonstrating availability of funds for at least one year (equal to $44,000).

In some cases, we may request that applicants furnish some additional information, including a statement of motivation and one recommendation letter.

There is a $50 application fee, paid by either check or cash.

For information on how to apply visit the graduate admissions Web site.

Program Requirements

A total of 15 credit hours are required. There are three core courses:

• TESL-500 Principles of Linguistics

• TESL-501 English Language Teaching I

• TESL-502 English Language Teaching II

Certificate students must also complete six credits of approved elective courses. To remain in good standing, students need to maintain a grade point average of B (3.0) or better.