English Courses in New york, USA: Where to study in 2025?

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ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES IN NEW YORK

A COMPLETE GUIDE AND LIST OF THE BEST ENGLISH PROGRAMS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK IN 2025

New York is one of the top destinations for learning and studying English as a second language (ESL). The city of New York has several English language schools, institutes, and prestigious universities that offer English classes.

New York stands out for studying English over other cities in The United States, mainly for being the most famous metropolis in the world, as well as the most populous city in the U.S., renowned for being a cultural beacon and a highly multicultural city. Here you can find a huge amount of tourist attractions, such as an innumerable amount of famous museums and art galleries, fascinating neighborhoods; fun activities to do in your spare time; and world-famous landmarks, such as the Liberty Statue, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park, among others. New York is also in a prime location in the American East Coast, near famous cities such as Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington DC.

The city of New York has English programs for all ages and budgets. We suggest that you read this page and click on each language school you think is a good option. All universities and language institutes listed here offer English programs that allow you to apply for a student visa. Most of the programs are also available for citizens and residents in full-time or part-time options.

The most common programs are "General English" or "Academic English Programs", which allow you to improve your English level for academic or professional purposes.

List of English Programs in New York

Common questions

Where to study English in New York?
What is the best English language course in New York?
How can I study English in New York?
English programs near New York?
Cheap and good English courses in New York?

You will find the answer to these questions on this website and a complete list of English language schools available for international students and residents. Click on the specific language school or university to get more information. You will find more details about the programs on those pages, helpful resources, and tips as housing, reviews, comments, and testimonials. As a leading world agency in ViveCampus, we can guide you in all the steps to study English in New York, USA.

1. Complete list of the best English Language Programs in New York

2. Top 7 reasons to study English in New York

3. Trends in 2025

4. Requirements

5. Prices, dates, and costs

6. Who studies English in New York?

7. Photos about learning English in New York

8. Videos about studying English in New York

9. Information about New York, USA

10. Frequently asked Questions

11. Testimonials

12. Benefits of studying English

1. Best places to learn English in New York, USA

English courses as a second language in top universities and institutions

New York City is most likely the most famous metropolis in the world, as well as the most populous city in the U.S., renowned for being a cultural beacon and a highly multicultural city. Apart from excellent English courses, you can find several attractions in the Big Apple: an innumerable amount of famous museums and galleries; fascinating neighborhoods; fun activities to do in your spare time; and world-famous landmarks, such as the Liberty Statue, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park, among others.

In New york and surroundings we can find the following places:

Manhattan
Brooklyn
Bronx
Queens
Staten Island
Upper Manhattan
Middle Manhattan
Lower Manhattan
Washington Heights
Harlem
Upper East Side
Upper West Side
Columbus Circle
Rockefeller Center
Broadway
Midtown
Times Square
Madison Square
Union Square
Downtown
East Village
Greenwich Village
SoHo
NoHo
West Village
Lower East Side
Lower West Side
Little Italy
Chinatown
Financial District
Brooklyn Heights
New Jersey
Newark
Westchester
Trenton
White Plains
Teaneck

2. TOP SEVEN REASONS TO STUDY ENGLISH IN NEW YORK

One of the best destination for international students in the USA

A WIDE VARIETY OF UNIVERSITIES AND LANGUAGE SCHOOLS

There is a wide array of universities and language schools where you can study English as a Second Language (ESL) and enhance your language proficiency.

ACCESS TO GREAT FACILITIES AND SERVICES

The programs in language institutes and universities in New York City include access to excellent facilities and services, such as sports facilities, fun activities, student organizations, trips to popular local destinations, and much more.

CONTINUE IMPROVING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

You will always have something to keep you busy while studying English in New York City, so you can continue working on your English skills outside the classroom.

MEET PEOPLE AND NETWORK WITH OTHER PROFESSIONALS

Studying English in New York is also a great opportunity to meet new people and develop networking relationships with other professionals from around the world.

A FANTASTIC, DIVERSE AND MULTICULTURAL CITY

New York offers an unforgettable and enriching cultural experience, since it is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. You will learn about different cultures, taste new delicious cuisine, and even experience the different neighborhoods full of influence from other cultures.

LOTS OF AWESOME ACTIVITIES TO DO

This city is full of vibrating urban life that will definitely amaze you with its many exciting activities, and if you love the outdoors, you can always visit Central Park and reconnect with nature.

A HUGE AMOUNT OF DIFFERENT TOURIST SPOTS TO VISIT

You can find numerous fun activities to do and places to visit in the Big Apple: attending a Broadway Show, strolling around Central Park, take a classic trip to Ellis Island, explore the fascinating architecture of New York City, tour the different museums, and so much more.

3. Trends in 2025

In 2025, international students are looking for the following English language courses:

The United States of America, known for its diverse culture, world-renowned educational institutions, and lively cities, has long been a preferred destination for international students aspiring to study English as a second language (ESL) in 2025. With multiple institutions to choose from, such as private language schools or prestigious universities offering ESL programs, the US offers unparalleled opportunities for students seeking to enhance their English language skills and immerse themselves in a unique and exciting environment.

The trend of experiential learning is on the rise, where schools are integrating real-life experiences into their ESL programs. By participating in local events, interacting with native speakers, and engaging in activities that mirror everyday life, students have the chance to practice their language skills in a natural setting. This hands-on approach not only improves language proficiency but also helps students gain a deeper understanding of American culture and customs.

Another trend in the US ESL sector is the increasing focus on technology-driven learning. Schools are incorporating online platforms, interactive language apps, and digital resources into their curricula. These tools provide students with a flexible and engaging learning experience, allowing them to practice their English skills at their own pace, receive instant feedback, and access resources from anywhere. This trend is particularly beneficial for those who wish to continue their language studies after returning to their home countries.

One significant advantage of studying ESL in the US is the diverse range of institutions available. Whether you're interested in attending a private language school that focuses solely on ESL or enrolling in a prestigious university that offers ESL programs as part of a broader curriculum, the US has options to fit every need and preference. These institutions often provide additional support services, such as orientation sessions, academic counseling, and extracurricular activities, ensuring a positive and successful ESL learning experience.

The US also offers a wide variety of settings for ESL study, from bustling urban centers like New York and Los Angeles to picturesque college towns and quieter suburban areas. Students can choose a location that suits their preferences and immerse themselves in the American way of life. The exposure to different accents, regional expressions, and cultural nuances further enriches the language-learning experience.

In conclusion, the United States is an excellent destination for studying English as a second language in 2025. With its diverse range of institutions, innovative learning approaches, and vibrant settings, the US provides an enriching and immersive experience for international students. By studying and living in the US, students can not only improve their English skills but also gain valuable insights into American culture, broaden their horizons, and create lifelong memories.

4. Requirements to take an English Course in New York, USA

Some programs can have their own special requirements

Visa Requirements

When enrolling on an intensive English course New York (those over 18 hours of class per week), you will need an F-1 student visa; therefore, you require an I-20 form that the university or school will send you with the acceptation letter. There is also the possibility of studying with a tourist visa or an ESTA a part-time course consisting of less than 18 hours per week. You can learn more about the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) by visiting this website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/

Age Requirements

Due to the fact that these English programs are planned for adult students, there is a minimum age limit of between 16 and 18 years old. However, there is no such thing as a maximum age, so there is no limit as to when to begin a studying English as a second language course (ESL).

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Among student visa requirements, you have to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses, such as program fees and the cost of staying abroad. The amount you need to prove depends on which school you choose and its location, as different cities have different costs of living. The funds must be on your bank account or on the account of a sponsor (relatives, friends, your employer or company, or even a governmental organization).

Minimum English Language Level

There tends to be no minimum English level requirement for the English language programs, since there is availability to study in different levels of English proficiency. Your current level of English is evaluated with a placement test when you arrive. Nonetheless, there are courses that have requirements regarding English language proficiency levels, such as taking an IELTS or TOEFL test beforehand.

5. Prices, dates and costs of English courses in New York 2025 - 2026

Explanation about main costs

Prices and dates for English language courses in New York vary from one institution to the other; mainly in terms of how long you will be studying, if it is intensive or part-time, and how many hours per week you study.

When calculating costs, you must consider that universities and English language schools may include other items on the final course fee. Some examples are: accommodation, health insurance, facilities usage, activities, events, books, etc.

Studying abroad in the New York City area involves associated costs you should consider. You can find some estimated costs below, which depend on the English language program, the school and the city, in this case New York. This serves as a guide to calculate ahead how much money you need to study English abroad.

Main costs to consider if you want to study in NY, USA

ITEM	COST
ENGLISH PROGRAM	Depends on the school and course you choose, study's duration, and the number of weekly hours.
HEALTH INSURANCE	The institution may include the health insurance cost in the final fee, but this varies from one school to the other. Have in mind that all F-1 students in the U.S. must have health insurance.
BOOKS	Books costs depend on each school, but the usual price is around $100 USD per English proficiency level.
HOUSING	This depends on the neighborhood and the type of housing. It is usually between $700 and $1600 USD a month for a single room.
FOOD	We recommend you to assign at least $600 USD a month for food. In some occasions, the housing may include food on the final fee, while universities may offer meal plans you can buy to eat from the campus cafeteria.
VISA	Both the F-1 Student and Tourist Visa include a USD $160 application fee. For the F-1 Visa you should also consider a USD $350 I-901 SEVIS registration fee. Finally, the ESTA has a total price of USD $14, divided in an application and an authorization fee. You should also consider a courier fee in case the school has to send you documents by express mail.
TRANSPORTATION	How much you spend on commuting will be determined by how far from the school you stay. That is why our recommendation is to live as close as you can, so walking or using public transportation is possible. Other options, such as renting a car or taking a cab might be too expensive on the long run and it may be difficult if you will be studying on a budget.
FLIGHT TICKETS	There will always be a difference on the air ticket price depending on your home country and your date of arrival and departure. We recommend browsing prices on different websites on the internet so you can find the best tickets. As a hint, the most difficult times of the year to travel, in terms of costs, are Christmas and New Year's Eve. In between you can find offers.

6. Who studies English in New York, USA?

Students come from all over the world to learn English in NY

People come from all over the world to study English as a second language (ESL) in New York City. They choose these programs mostly to enhance their proficiency level, directly improving their possibilities for the future. A usual scenario is students taking English language lessons back in their countries of origin, but since English is not spoken on a daily basis, they cannot reach a higher level of proficiency.

Young Students

These are young students who want to work on their English language proficiency for academic purposes and usually enroll during their summer or winter vacations to study in New York.

Young Professionals

These are freshly graduated people and/or that have a limited amount of working experience. The main reasons for enrolling on an English program in New York are conducting graduate studies abroad or applying for a better job position.

Senior Professionals

These are older, more experienced professionals who are usually in high job positions, and have realized they need a higher level of English to be able to communicate with other professionals at an international level. They ask for a leave of absence, resign, or use their free time between jobs in order to improve their English language skills in New York.

Residents

They are American residents or companions of workers who have been transferred to New York in the U.S. Their motivation to improve their English level is usually being able to function in an everyday life English-speaking environment.

7. Photos about studying English in New York, USA

Look some of the photos of the ESL programs

international students studing English at the New York public library

international student from English course walking in New York

activity from English language program in New York

8. Videos about studying English in New York, USA

Click to watch the videos

9. Information about New York, USA

New York City, also known as the Big Apple, among other names, is the biggest city in the U.S. in terms of population, and is located in the east coast. Formed by five boroughs that were united into one city in 1898, it is the most diverse city in the world in terms of languages spoken (around 800 different languages), and 3.2 million of residents were born outside the U.S. It is also renowned for being a cultural, economic and artistic capital of the world.

Settled in 1624 by Dutch explorers, its old name was New Amsterdam. Eventually, it was captured by England and renamed New York after the Duke of York. Throughout the years and after a series of developments, it became an important economic center in the U.S., particularly the Wall Street stock exchange, one of the biggest in the world, and its real estate market, one of the most thriving in the world.

Of course, New York City is also known as a culture center, with numerous museums, art galleries and theaters located within its metropolitan area. Some of the attractions you can find in this wonderful city are:

The Statue of Liberty
Ellis Island
The Empire State Building
Central Park
Broadway
Times Square
The One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the western hemisphere
Numerous museums (Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, etc.)
And of course, the different shopping districts and art galleries

10. Frequently Asked Questions about studying English in NY

Can I travel only with an ESTA permit and study a full-time intensive program if my country has an agreement with the U.S.?

Even if your country has an ESTA agreement, full-time programs require an F-1 student visa, and is for that reason that it is mandatory to apply for the visa. However, you can take a part-time English program (less than 18 hours a week) with an ESTA permit or tourist visa.

Which are the different steps of the application process for the F-1 student visa to study a certificate program in New York?

Please check with us what type of visa you need to take the program you are interested in.
All full-time programs in the U.S. require a F-1 student Visa. With an F-1 visa, you can extend your stay in the United States as long as you continue studying.
Part-time programs (18 hrs/week or less) can be taken with a tourist visa or visa waiver ESTA. With a tourist visa, you can only stay in the U.S. the duration your tourist visa allows, since your main purpose in the U.S. should be tourism.
If you need an F-1 student visa, please apply as soon as you receive your acceptance documents (I-20 form) from the English school. In some countries it can take several weeks to obtain a visa interview at the U.S. embassy.
You must confirm these steps on the website of the U.S. embassy in your country. You can look for your nearest U.S. embassy here: https://www.usembassy.gov/

Which accommodation options are there in New York?

In many cases, the accommodation is not included on the course fee. However, it may be possible to find on-campus housing during the summer season, when most regular students are off on vacations. Other options include sharing furnished apartments or living inside the house of a local family in a homestay. The institution you apply to can give you further information about the many options you can choose from.

Can I work and study at the same time in New York?

You can work on campus for 20 hours a week maximum if you are enrolled on an intensive English course in New York. However, these kinds of jobs tend to be reserved for regular graduate and undergraduate students, and availability is usually very limited.

Where can I study English courses in New York?

There are several universities, institutes and schools in the New York Area, so you can check this same website to see which one fits you best.

Which is the best university or language institute to study English in New York?

Every institution offers great English courses, so the final choice is yours to make. You can choose based on your needs and goals, the contents you want to study and the school’s location inside New York City. You can also check all available institutions on this page.

Do universities offer scholarships to study English in New York?

There are currently no scholarships for English language courses. However, in some cases, language institutes may offer discount prices for international students. You can also check each link for further information.

What payment methods are available for these English courses?

The payment process depends on the school. They usually ask for an initial $200 USD fee to begin the application process, which includes the costs for shipping the documents needed for your visa application. The rest of the fees are paid upon arrival to the school and the preferred method of payment is credit card.

Do I need to be currently studying back in my country to apply to an English course in New York?

No, anyone can apply for these English as second language courses (ESL), including those who are not currently studying. Thus, we receive all kinds of applicants, from corporate workers to high-school graduates, as everybody value the potential of these programs.

Is there an age limit to apply for an English course in New York?

These English language programs are design for adult students, so universities and language schools apply a minimum age limit of between 16 and 18 years old, with no maximum age. Nevertheless, there are still special courses aimed at children and teenagers, in which contents and activities are design to fit their needs and goals, so they can have a wonderful experience studying abroad.

What are the main tourist attractions in New York City?

Some of the main tourist attractions you can find in New York City are: The Statue of Liberty; Ellis Island and its immigration museum; the Empire State Building and its great views of the city; Central Park and all its exuberating beauty; Broadway, where you can see fascinating plays; the world-famous Times Square; the One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the western hemisphere; numerous museums (Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, etc.), among others.

11. Testimonials of international students

New York is the perfect city to learn English. After class there was always something to do or visit, and it was very easy to interact with the locals, even if it was to buy a hot dog from the street carts. Taking an English course in New York allow me to learn English and at the same time have a complete immersion with the English language. What I value the most now, in addition to achieving the fluency of the English language that I wanted, is the personal growth I had, meeting people from different countries, many different cultures, trying different types of food, and the complete life experience I had in New York. I fully recommend taking English courses in New York!

Santiago C.

Colombia

I had always wanted to visit New York, so I decided to take an English course in NYC. I must say it is one of the best decisions of my life. I had heard that New York is the capital of the world, but being able to live that experience when you are studying English is priceless. New York is a city where you can do everything, so it forces you to practice your English outside of classes. Among the highlights that I made was that I was finally able to see an NBA game, I went to Central Park many times, I got to know the neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Queens that I only knew from TV, and I loved all the shops and bars I went to in Manhattan. New York is ideal for living and learning English.

Aurora F.

Italy

12. Benefits of studying English in New York

In the global world we live in, mastering the English language and having experience abroad is highly valued by companies and employers.

But the benefits are not only professional, as people who study abroad develop valuable skills such as competence in a new language, cultural exposure, tolerance, adaptability, leadership, and independence. All these skills are directly fostered by learning and living abroad.