About Tufts University

Tufts University is a highly ranked research university located just outside of Boston, Massachusetts. At Tufts, we believe the best way to learn a language is to use it, to live it. If you are a student, business professional, or adult seeking one of the most innovative, dynamic programs available today, we invite you to learn more about Tufts and see what Boston has to offer!

Our English classes are taught by dedicated instructors who use their imagination and experience to maximize each student's learning potential. Class time is complemented by a host of "real-world" activities that help you to "live" the language as you learn it. The Tufts English Language Programs are innovative in the way they combine classroom material with real-life experience.



You will speak and use the language each day, the natural way to improve your ability and confidence. From engaging classes to exciting field trips and evening discussions on American life and customs, we help you learn the language and culture that is America.

Programs of Study

The English Today Four- and Six- Week Programs are designed for individuals ages 17 years or older who desire a combination of classes and activities to make the most of their summer in Boston. TOEFL preparation courses are available for advanced students.

The English Today High School Program takes elements from the university-level English Today programs and modifies them for high school students ages 15–17 who are curious about American culture and history, Boston, and life at a university. This program is three weeks long.

English Today students have the opportunity to enroll in intensive afternoon workshops for additional English instruction. All class sizes are small, with approximately 14 students per class and even fewer in the afternoon workshops.

For over 25 years, the Summer Institute for International Scholars has trained students entering graduate school to write American-style research papers and communicate effectively. Students participate in an Academic Speaking Course and a Research Writing Course where they construct a graduate-level research paper and receive individual feedback from a highly trained ESL instructor.

On-Campus Housing

Students live in a dynamic community of their peers where the common language is English. Students enjoy life in the dormitory as it becomes the central meeting place for everyone. The live-in Residential Counselors, all university students, sponsor recreational activities like ping pong tournaments, card games, and movie nights, in addition to weekly American Forum discussions.

Dormitory rooms include basic furniture (desk, bed, dresser, chair), as well as bed linen, a pillow, small towels, a desk lamp, and a fan. Students often choose to bring personal toiletries, a bath towel, and bathroom footwear. There are shopping centers nearby if you wish to purchase these items in the U.S.

A meal plan is included in the tuition fee. Meals are served in the university dining hall which offers several areas where entrees are prepared. 

Student Life

To supplement learning in the classroom, the programs have excursions planned every afternoon and weekend. The campus’s proximity to Boston makes it easy to access plenty of fun, cultural, and educational sites. Residential Counselors lead students on all the trips, and instructors lead the Discover America excursions on Wednesday afternoons. Residential Counselors also plan evening activities.

Summer students enjoy the benefits of living on a university campus with a variety of facilities to assist with language learning, including a computer lab and an extensive library. Tufts has a recently renovated fitness center, plenty of athletic fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts, and an indoor swimming pool.

Apply

Students are welcome to apply online for the summer programs. The deadline to apply is June 1st. Applications are accepted after June 1st until the program begins, but a late fee will be assessed.

No TOEFL score is required to register for English Today Programs.

Summer Institute for International Scholars requires a TOEFL score of 71 internet based (iBT) and a personal statement.