The University of South Dakota

Learn in the Heart of America

Do you need to study for the TOEFL Exam or improve your professional English? Join us at USD and learn and improve your English in the heartland of the United States!

The University of South Dakota's ESL Summer Institute is an intensive four-week program designed to help participants improve their English communication skills. The ESL Summer Institute welcomes international students and non-native English-speakers who want to strengthen their English language reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills to achieve higher performance for the TOEFL Exam, university studies, career advancement, or personal growth.

Classes are small and supportive, and held Monday through Friday under the guidance of a professional staff. We offer personal one-on-one tutoring and many opportunities to explore the diverse culture and beautiful countryside of the Midwestern United States!

In addition, we will assist you in all aspects of preparing for the TOEFL, including registration and transportation to the exam site. You'll also receive a Certificate of Achievement upon completion of the ESL Summer Institute.

Areas of Study Offered

• English Oral Communication
  Learn and improve your pronunciation, listening comprehension, presentation skills, and conversational English.

• English Reading and Writing
  Broaden your English vocabulary and strengthen your ability to read and write English -- including academic English and English for special purposes.

• English Grammar
  Learn and review English grammar. Special attention is given to verb tense, pronouns, and other useful English language skills.

• United States Cultural Literacy
  Explore U.S. traditions, customs, food, music, movies, and pastimes with your instructors and classmates! Activities may include trips to the beautiful Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota, the Lewis and Clark Trail, Native American pow wows, nearby urban areas and cultural attractions, and much more!

Who May Apply

• adults 18 and older
• high school students with a legal guardian admitted with instructor's consent
• those who have obtained the required TOEFL score for admission to USD or another higher education institution, but want to improve their English skills