English is the primary language of the United States, and as an F student, you may be proficient in the language. Many Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certified schools require F students to submit their scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Test System (IELTS) with their school application. These tests measure English language proficiency for non-native speakers.

 

Once you have taken the TOEFL or IELTS and received acceptance to a SEVP-certified school, there are still many ways for you to practice the language. While you may be comfortable reading and writing in English, conversations with native speakers can be a challenge. U.S. News and World Report offers several ways to help F and M students improve their conversational English skills. These tips include practicing the language before your program starts, making friends with native speakers and expanding your knowledge of English by watching popular TV shows and movies. Read the full article for more ways to practice and improve your conversational English skills as an F or M student. 

 

Understanding and speaking English is an important part of your experience in classes and campus life at a U.S. school. Check out the U.S. Department of State’s American English website for additional resources to help improve your English language skills.

 

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