American English Language School

Changing your visa status from a tourist (B-2) visa to an F1 student visa can be a smart choice if you decide to pursue your studies in the United States. This process allows you to legally remain in the country while attending an accredited school like American English Language School. However, there are important steps and considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth transition. Steps to Change Your Visa Status Enroll in a SEVP-Certified School The first step in changing your status to an F1 student visa is applying to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school, such as American English Language School. Once accepted, the school will issue you a Form I-20, which is required for your visa change application. Submit Form I-539 After receiving your Form I-20, you will need to submit Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Along with this form, you will need to provide supporting document...

When visiting a doctor, it’s important to describe your symptoms clearly, and idioms can often make your conversations more natural and expressive. Idioms are phrases that carry meanings beyond the literal definitions of the words, and knowing them can help you better communicate your health concerns. Here are 10 helpful idioms you can use or encounter during a doctor’s visit, along with their definitions and examples. 1. Under the Weather Definition : Feeling ill or unwell. Example : I’ve been feeling under the weather lately, with a sore throat and a headache. 2. Fit as a Fiddle Definition : In very good health. Example : Despite being 70 years old, my grandfather is fit as a fiddle. 3. A Clean Bill of Health Definition : A doctor’s report showing that you are healthy. Example : After my annual check-up, the doctor gave me a clean bill of health. 4. On the Mend Definition : Recovering from an illness or injury. Example : I’ve been on the mend since my surgery last month and am feelin...

As the sun shines brightly and the days get longer, summer brings not just warm weather but also a fresh opportunity to expand your English vocabulary with some fun and colorful idioms. Idioms are phrases with meanings that aren't always obvious from the individual words, and they add richness to your conversations. Here are 10 summer-themed idioms, complete with definitions and examples, to help you express yourself more naturally and fluently in English. 1. Dog Days of Summer Definition : The hottest and most uncomfortable days of summer. Example : During the dog days of summer, I prefer to stay indoors with the air conditioning on. 2. Catch Some Rays Definition : To sunbathe or spend time in the sun. Example : Let's go to the beach and catch some rays this afternoon. 3. Beat the Heat Definition : To find ways to stay cool in hot weather. Example : We decided to head to the pool to beat the heat. 4. Full of Hot Air Definition : Someone who talks a lot but doesn't mean muc...

Imperatives are a fundamental part of English grammar, especially when it comes to giving directions. Whether you're helping someone navigate a new city or explaining how to complete a task, imperatives make it easy to give clear and direct instructions. By mastering this key aspect of English, you'll enhance your communication skills, particularly in practical everyday situations. What Are Imperatives? Imperatives are verbs used to give commands, make requests, or offer instructions. In English, they are straightforward and often consist of just the base form of the verb. The subject (you) is usually implied rather than stated, making the sentence concise and direct. For example: Turn left at the traffic light. Go straight for two blocks, then take a right. Walk to the end of the street and cross the road. Imperatives are crucial when giving directions because they focus on the action that the listener needs to take. Common Imperatives for Giving Directions When giving directi...

Preparing for the TOEFL test involves more than mastering grammar and listening skills—building a strong vocabulary is also key. A solid grasp of advanced vocabulary will help you succeed in both the reading and writing sections of the test. To help you prepare, here are 20 essential vocabulary words commonly encountered on the TOEFL exam, along with their definitions and example sentences. 1. Analyze (verb): To examine in detail the structure of something, especially information. Example: The scientist will analyze the data from the experiment. 2. Benevolent (adjective): Well-meaning and kindly. Example: The benevolent teacher helped her students outside of class. 3. Cohesive (adjective): Forming a united whole; logically connected. Example: The author’s argument was cohesive and well-supported by evidence. 4. Constrain (verb): To restrict or limit. Example: Financial difficulties may constrain a student’s ability to attend college. 5. Depict (verb): To represent or show something in ...

Transferring to a new language school while holding an F1 student visa can be an important step in your educational journey. Whether you’re seeking a program that better aligns with your goals, offers a higher level of instruction, or provides a more supportive environment, the process of transferring schools as an F1 student requires careful planning and adherence to specific regulations. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this transition smoothly. Why Transfer Schools? There are several reasons why an F1 student might consider transferring to a different language school: Academic Fit: You may find that the curriculum or teaching methods at your current school are not meeting your learning needs. Program Levels: The new school might offer more advanced ESL (English as a Second Language) courses or specialized programs. Location: Moving to a new city or region might necessitate finding a school closer to your new home. School Environment: You might seek a more supportive, engaging, or...

Many visitors who come to the United States on a tourist visa (B1/B2) may decide they want to extend their stay to study full-time. One common pathway to do so is by changing their visa status to an F1 student visa, which is specifically for academic students enrolled in accredited U.S. institutions. If you're considering this change to pursue an ESL (English as a Second Language) program or other academic studies, here are the steps and important considerations to keep in mind. Understanding the F1 Student Visa The F1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign students to pursue academic studies at U.S. institutions. To qualify, you must be accepted into a full-time program at an accredited school authorized by the U.S. government to host international students. The F1 visa also allows for some on-campus work and limited practical training opportunities after graduation. Steps to Change Your Visa Status 1. Apply to an Accredited School: The first step is to apply and be acce...

Transferring to a new language school can be a significant decision, whether you're seeking a better fit, more advanced courses, or a different learning environment. Making a smooth transition requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some tips and insights to help you navigate the process of transferring language schools effectively. Identify Your Reasons for Transferring : Start by clarifying why you want to transfer. Are you looking for a more challenging curriculum, better resources, or a different teaching style? Understanding your reasons will help you choose a new school that meets your specific needs and goals. Research Potential Schools : Once you know what you're looking for, research potential language schools thoroughly. Look into their programs, faculty qualifications, class sizes, student reviews, and extracurricular activities. Consider visiting the schools if possible or attending online information sessions to get a feel for their environment and cu...

Managing your finances wisely is a crucial skill, especially for students balancing the costs of education, living expenses, and leisure activities. As an ESL (English as a Second Language) student, learning to manage your money effectively can reduce stress and allow you to focus more on your studies. Here are some practical tips to help you manage your money wisely. 1. Create a Budget: The first step in managing your money is to create a budget. List all your sources of income, such as part-time jobs, scholarships, or allowances, and compare them with your expenses. Categorize your expenses into fixed (rent, tuition) and variable (food, entertainment) costs. A clear budget helps you track where your money is going and ensures you live within your means. 2. Track Your Spending: Keep a record of all your expenditures, no matter how small. Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or budgeting app to track your daily, weekly, and monthly spending. Tracking your expenses helps you identify areas wher...

Effective time management is crucial for success, especially when learning a new language. As an ESL (English as a Second Language) student, balancing classes, homework, and personal commitments can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you manage your time wisely and make the most of your ESL learning experience. 1. Create a Weekly Schedule: Start by mapping out your week. Include all your classes, study sessions, work, and personal activities. Use a planner, calendar, or digital app to keep track of your schedule. Having a visual overview of your week helps you allocate time efficiently and ensures you don’t overlook any important tasks. 2. Prioritize Your Tasks: Identify your most important tasks and tackle them first. Use a prioritization system, such as the Eisenhower Matrix, to categorize tasks based on their urgency and importance. Focus on high-priority tasks before moving on to less critical ones. This approach helps you stay on top of your responsibilities and reduces th...

  Introduction Many visitors come to the United States on B1/B2 visas for business or tourism purposes. However, some may decide to pursue academic opportunities during their stay. For those individuals, changing their status from a B1/B2 visa to an F1 student visa is a viable option. This blog explores the advantages and disadvantages of making this transition within the United States. The Benefits of Changing Your Status to an F1 Student Visa 1. Avoiding the Need to Return Home One of the primary advantages of changing your status from a B1/B2 to an F1 visa within the United States is that it eliminates the need to return to your home country to apply for a new visa. This can save you time, money, and the hassle of traveling back and forth. 2. Continuity of Stay By adjusting your status while in the United States, you can maintain continuity of stay without any interruptions. This is particularly beneficial if you are already settled, have found suitable accommodation, and have a...

Starting a new ESL (English as a Second Language) class can be both exciting and a bit intimidating. One of the best ways to ease into the experience and enhance your learning journey is to get to know your classmates. Building connections with fellow students not only makes the class more enjoyable but also provides valuable opportunities for language practice and cultural exchange. Here are some tips on how to get to know your classmates and why it’s important in an ESL class. Participate in Class Activities: Most ESL classes incorporate group activities and discussions as part of the curriculum. Take full advantage of these opportunities to interact with your classmates. Whether it’s a group project, a role-playing exercise, or a discussion, actively participating will help you learn more about your peers and foster collaboration. Join Study Groups: Forming or joining a study group is an excellent way to get to know your classmates better. Study groups provide a supportive environme...

 Starting a new quarter at American English Language School (AELS) is an exciting opportunity to continue your journey of mastering English. To make the most of your experience and set yourself up for success, here are some valuable tips to help you get ready for the upcoming quarter. Organize Your Study Space : A clean and organized study space can significantly enhance your focus and productivity. Make sure your study area is free from distractions, well-lit, and equipped with all the necessary supplies, such as notebooks, pens, textbooks, and a computer. A dedicated study space helps create a routine and signals to your brain that it’s time to learn. Set Clear Goals : Setting specific, achievable goals for the quarter can keep you motivated and on track. Whether it's improving your speaking skills, expanding your vocabulary, or mastering a particular grammar concept, having clear objectives will give you direction and purpose. Write down your goals and review them regularly to m...

  At American English Language School, we believe that language learning is deeply intertwined with cultural understanding. To foster this connection, we proudly host an annual Culture Week, a vibrant celebration of the diverse backgrounds and traditions of our students. This week-long event is a cornerstone of our community, providing an enriching experience that goes beyond the classroom and brings language and culture to life. During Culture Week, students and staff come together through a variety of activities and events. The students are taken out of the classroom to various restaurants and places so that they can practice their English and gain more confidence in the non academic world. They also have the ability to experience the community around their school with their classmates and teachers.  Our ESL (English as a Second Language) program at American English Language School is designed to support and enhance these cultural exchanges. Our comprehensive curriculum focu...

 The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a crucial step for non-native English speakers aspiring to study at English-speaking universities. Achieving a high score on the TOEFL can open doors to academic opportunities and enhance your career prospects. At American English Language School, our TOEFL preparation class is meticulously designed to help you excel in this essential exam. Our TOEFL preparation class provides comprehensive coverage of all four test sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. We employ a variety of teaching methods to ensure that students develop the necessary skills and strategies to succeed. For instance, our reading sessions focus on improving comprehension and speed, while our listening exercises help students become adept at understanding different accents and extracting key information. Speaking practice includes simulated test scenarios to build confidence and fluency, and our writing instruction emphasizes clarity, coherence, an...

  One of the subtleties of English that often confuses ESL learners is the proper use of "can" versus "may." While both words are used to ask for permission, they are used in different contexts and have distinct connotations. "Can" is generally used to denote ability or capacity. For example, "Can you swim?" is asking if someone has the ability to swim. It is also used informally to ask for permission, especially in casual conversation, such as, "Can I use your phone?" However, using "can" in formal settings or with people you do not know well can come off as impolite or overly casual. On the other hand, "may" is traditionally used to ask for permission in a more polite and formal manner. For example, "May I leave the table?" shows respect and is considered more appropriate in formal or respectful contexts. "May" is less commonly used to talk about ability, but it is the go-to choice for permissio...

Learning to use irregular verbs in the past tense can be one of the more challenging aspects of English grammar for ESL students. Unlike regular verbs, which simply take an "-ed" ending to form the past tense (e.g., "walk" becomes "walked"), irregular verbs do not follow a consistent pattern. This means that each irregular verb must be memorized, which can be daunting. However, with practice and effective strategies, it is entirely possible to master them. Irregular verbs can take many forms in the past tense. For example, the verb "go" changes to "went," the verb "see" changes to "saw," and the verb "take" changes to "took." There are no rules to predict these changes, so the best approach is to learn them through practice and repetition. Consider using flashcards, engaging in conversation practice, and reading extensively to become more familiar with these verbs. Some other common irregular verb...

 Learning when to use the simple present tense and the present continuous tense is a fundamental part of mastering English. These two tenses are used frequently in everyday conversation and writing, and understanding their differences is crucial for clear communication. The simple present tense is used for actions that are habitual or generally true. For example, we say, "She walks to school every day," to describe a routine action. This tense is also used for facts and generalizations, such as, "Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius" or "Dogs are loyal animals." Additionally, we use the simple present for scheduled events in the near future, like "The train leaves at 6 PM." On the other hand, the present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are happening at the moment of speaking or around the current time period. For instance, "She is walking to school right now" indicates an action occurring at this moment. It is also used ...

Are you an ESL learner grappling with when to use "can" and "should" in English? Understanding the nuances of these modal verbs is crucial for effective communication. In this guide, we'll delve into their usage with examples to help you navigate conversations with confidence. Firstly, let's tackle "can." This versatile modal verb is primarily used to express capability or possibility. For instance, when discussing abilities or permissions, "can" comes into play. Consider the sentence, "She can speak French fluently." Here, "can" denotes the ability to speak French. Similarly, in questions like, "Can I borrow your pen?" the speaker seeks permission. It's important to note that "can" often implies the physical or mental capacity to perform an action. However, it doesn't necessarily imply whether the action is advisable or not. On the other hand, "should" is employed to indicate reco...