What is the purpose/goal of the Undergraduate International Gateway Program?

The purpose of American University's International Gateway Program (IGP) is to prepare international undergraduate students for academic work at American University and to acquaint students with U.S. academic culture. The curriculum teaches critical academic reading, writing and oral communication skills needed for international students to be successful at American University. Students who successfully complete the IGP will develop advanced academic skills for the higher education environment while satisfying university requirements and earning 14 credits towards a degree.  

What courses are offered through the Undergraduate International Gateway Program?

The International Gateway Program consists of four courses:

• Principles and Approaches to Oral Academic Communication (3 credit hours)
• Principles and Approaches to Written Academic Communication (3 credit hours)
  
• The Culture of US Higher Education (3 credit hours)
• Post-WWII American Film Studies (2 credit hours)
• Undergraduate General Education Course (3 credit hours)
  

What will the courses cover?

WSEM-196 001T Selected Topics: Non-recurring: Principles and Approaches to Oral Academic Communication (3) 

This course offers undergraduate students the opportunity to develop the academic oral communication skills and strategies necessary for success in the university. The course focuses on comprehension of oral communication in the classroom (listening for content, note-taking, paraphrasing, and summarizing) as well as participation in oral communication in the classroom (utilizing verbal and non-verbal communication skills, managing conversations, and giving oral presentations). Students demonstrate the ability to understand an academic lecture; incorporate strategies of effective verbal and non-verbal communication; employ successfully conversation management and repair strategies; summarize and paraphrase from oral sources; and prepare and deliver oral presentations. Meets with WSEM-096-001T.

WSEM-196 002T Selected Topics: Non-recurring: Principles and Approaches to Written Academic Communication (3) 

This course offers undergraduate students the opportunity to develop critical academic reading and writing skills. The course focuses on vocabulary acquisition, knowledge of advanced grammar structures, and experience with various genres of reading and writing. Students read a variety of academic texts and complete writing assignments that include of reports and essays, a research paper, and collaborative writing projects. Students also submit a portfolio including samples of their written work completed throughout the semester that illustrates their abilities in academic reading and writing, and take a final exam. Meets with WSEM-096-002T.

WSEM-196 003T Selected Topics: Non-recurring: Post-WWII American Film Studies (2 credits)
This course complements the core IGP courses, Written Academic Communication and Oral Academic Communication. By viewing one or two films per decade since WWII students witness the evolution of American culture, history, and society over the past seven decades. Students watch one film per week on their own and come prepared with a completed worksheet and a journal entry about the film. Class discussions dissect the film’s meaning beyond the plot, make connections to the key events of the film’s time period and explain the zeitgeist of the film’s era. In the process, students hone their critical thinking skills, awareness of American culture and history, and improve their oral and aural skills by actively participating in class, leading discussions, and giving presentations on key events of each decade. Keeping a weekly journal and writing analytical essays help sharpen students’ writing skills. In addition, the course advances students’ knowledge of idioms and cultural references.

LIT-160-002T Culture of Higher Education in the US (3 credits)

This course explores cultural assumptions underlying academic practices and personal interactions in U.S. university communities, with special attention on how U.S. cultural norms are viewed by observers from other countries. Includes understanding the educational institutional context including the role of academic integrity; examining student-faculty interactions; conducting research; and successful cultural adaptation. Open only to students in the International Gateway Program. Meets with LIT-096 001T.

Undergraduate General Education Course (3 credit hours) 

Students will enroll in a course selected from the list of general education courses recommended specifically for IGP students. Upon successful completion, students can count the course toward their undergraduate degree. Please click here for the list of General Education courses that you can select your elective from.

What is the mathematics Placement Examination and why must I take it?  

American University requires that all incoming students take a mathematics placement test. This is mandatory for all incoming students, even if they have AP or transfer credit for mathematics or statistics. The placement test is a 45-minute 32 question test taken online before students are able to be registered for classes. Please note: Students are not able to be registered for classes without taking the placement test. The exam, itself, is primarily algebra and students are welcome to use a calculator to assist them.  

When you have been registered to take the examination, you will receive an e-mail notification and directions from the Director of Education Services in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. This examination must be completed as soon as possible.  

Students may if they wish take a mathematics course for their General Educational Class. IGP staff will advise students of the appropriate Mathematics class they may enroll in.

What is the class size? 

The four IGP courses will enroll approximately 15 students per class. Each student will receive extensive individualized instruction tailored to his or her needs and intended program of study. In addition to detailed feedback on both content and language for coursework, instructors will work with students to tailor particular assignments to their needs.  

Do the IGP courses count toward a degree program? 

Yes, IGP courses count for credits towards your degree. The Undergraduate General Education course fulfills a university requirement. The other four IGP courses can be used as free elective credit. Of course, the credits only count if you pass the courses. If successful in every course, IGP students earn 14 credits towards their degree.

How do I qualify for admission to the bachelor’s degree program at American University? 

Students who meet satisfactory academic progress in the program (earning a grade of "C" or better in each of the IGP courses) will be admitted and enrolled in their AU degree program the following semester. 

If I accept to enroll in the International Gateway Program as a condition of admission, what do I have to do? 

You have to read and sign the enrollment agreement and housing application form and send it back with your deposit in order to confirm your intent to enroll in the International Gateway Program.  

What is the normal length of study for the Undergraduate International Gateway Program? 

The International Gateway program is a semester-long program. It runs as follows:
•  Fall – August to December
•  Spring – January to May

When do classes begin and end, and what other important dates do I need to know? 

For the important dates for the 2013-2014 academic year, please click here. 

What happens if I fail course? 

Students who do not to earn a grade of "C" or better in each of the IGP courses, will be able to re-enroll in the IGP program for the spring semester and have their conditional admission to AU extended for an additional semester.  

As a student in the IGP Program am I eligible for a merit scholarship?

Students in IGP are not eligible for merit scholarships.

What visa will I need to enroll in the International Gateway Program if I live overseas and need a visa to enter the United States for studies?

Students who enroll in IGP will need an F-1 Student Visa in order to enter the United States to study. For more information regarding the visa process please refer to the International Student and Scholar Services website at http://www.american.edu/ocl/isss.

When will I be issued the I-20 form in order to apply for the F-1 Visa?

Once you sign and return your enrollment agreement and housing application form along with your deposit, American University will issue the I-20 immigration form and mail it to your home address so that you can schedule an appointment for a visa interview at a United States Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

How and when will I register for courses?

Once your enrollment agreement, housing application form and deposit are received, the International Gateway Program staff member, who will serve as your academic advisor will contact you to complete your course registration.

Am I guaranteed AU housing as an Undergraduate International Gateway Program student?

IGP students live in triple occupancy rooms on AU’s campus.

American University will provide housing to all IGP students for the fall and spring semesters who complete the enrollment process by the indicated deadline. Roommate preferences cannot be guaranteed. All university residence halls are nonsmoking, and most floors are coed.

Do I have to live on-campus?

Students who prefer to live off-campus with friends or relatives are permitted to do so. Students wishing to live off-campus will be responsible for making their own living arrangements.

What programs and services can I expect as a student in The International Gateway Program?

Students in IGP will have access to all the services and programs provided to students, including use of the University Library, Athletic facilities, student clubs and organizations, the Academic Support Center, and the Counseling Center.

In addition, students participate in the American University orientation programs prior to the start of classes to ensure that they are familiar with the services and programs at AU.

Who should I contact if I have questions regarding the Program?

For further information or assistance, please contact:
International Gateway Program
(202) 895-4919
 igp@american.edu