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Clark University
American Language and Culture Institute (ALCI)
Students walking through Clark University campus

The Pre-College Summer Program at Clark University is a residential program designed to prepare international high school students for academic success in the United States.

The program features five engaging short-term tracks (1-4 weeks) after the foundation week* that combine the development of classroom and campus life skills with valuable English language to make the transition to an American college easier and more fulfilling. Students will not only engage in academic studies of their choice, but also immerse themselves in co-curricular activities involving meaningful interactions with local students and relevant field trips.

*Please note, the Foundation Week is not required for US-based students.

Request Information

Pre-Register

Tuition and Dates

  • Application Deadline: April 20, 2024
  • Program dates:
    • 5 week programs –  July 1 – August 9
    • 3 week programs –  July 1 – July 26
    • 2  week programs – July 1 – July 19
  • Deposit: $500 (due upon registration)
  • Total Cost: $2,400 – $5,400 depending on the track selected ( the remaining amount is due June 14, 2024). The total cost covers housing, food, and excursions.

We are happy to announce that we now offer need-based and merit-based scholarships in the amount of 10% of the total cost. Awards are determined at the time of the student’s acceptance.

To apply/preregister, click the link on this page and submit your $500 deposit. Once you submit your deposit, please wait till April 20 to submit your supporting/legal documents.

After you preregister, you will be sent an email with link to our online portal Canvas. On Canvas, you will be able to upload all required paperwork after April 20th. You will also receive a link to a portal link that has information for the specific track you chose.

  • If a student doesn’t have the necessary language skills for one of the other four tracks, they will be offered the option of joining the “Express Yourself: English for Academic Success” program.

Please note that students are required to arrange their transportation to the US and take care of any immigration matters. If you have a question about this, please let us know!

Don’t forget to pay the remaining total no later than June 14.

Visas and Immigration

The 2024 Pre-College Summer Program is a full-time program of study and international students will need an F-1 student visa to participate. Upon deposit, students will receive detailed information on how to request their Form I-20 which is required for the F-1 visa process. Please plan plenty of time for the visa process.

You can find more information on the visa process on the ISSO webpage.

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Example of Day in a Pre-College Program

8:30 - 9 AM
Breakfast

Students will go to The Bistro for breakfast together with a Resident’s Assistant (RA). After eating, students and their RA will walk to the location of their morning class.

9 AM - Noon
Morning Class

Students will attend a morning class focused on the track they chose. Led by engaging instructors, these classes will give students both knowledge of their track’s topic and insight into learning in an American classroom.

Noon - 1 PM
Lunch

Students will head to The Bistro for a lunch offering a multitude of menu options. This meal period gives students a chance to connect with new friends and enjoy a hearty lunch before the next part of their day.

1 - 2:30 PM
Afternoon Class

Students will take part in their second class of the day. In both the morning and afternoon class, students can expect to be active participants in the classroom and have personalized attention from instructors.

2:30 - 4:30 PM
Free Time

After a busy morning and early afternoon, students will have a chance to return to their dormitory for a bit of free time. This will serve as an opportunity to interact with peers, rest, or engage in RA-led programming.

4:30 - 6 PM
Workshop or Seminar

Offered a few times throughout the week, workshops or seminar periods gave students a further opportunity to learn about aspects of American academics, life at a US campus, or topics related more closely to their track’s focus.

6 - 7 PM
Dinner

Students will return to The Bistro for an evening meal together.

7 - 10 PM
Free Time

After finishing dinner, students will have another opportunity to relax and spend time with new friends. Each night will feature programming (such as team building exercises, arts and crafts, competitive games, etc.)

10 PM
Lights Out

Students are expected to be in their rooms by 10 p.m. RA’s will be on call should students need something in the night.

Contact Information

ALCI Office

Office Information

  • Clark University American Language and Culture Institute
    Jonas Clark Hall 208
    950 Main Street
    Worcester, MA 01610-1477 USA

  • 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday

    Office Hours:
    12:00-1:00, 3:00 -4:00
    Monday to Thursday
    Or by appointment.