Inbound Programs

Program Options

YFU’s Community College programs offer you the opportunity to study in the USA through one of our four programs:

  • English Language Program - This intensive English as a Second Language (ESL) and homestay experience is designed to improve English language skills. The one-semester program begins in August or early January. An academic year of ESL begins in August. The program includes 15 hours of intensive English language instruction per academic session (non-credit program).
  • Academic Semester Program - This academic and homestay exchange experience is designed to offer academic and career training courses in a variety of subject areas, for example in arts & sciences, accounting/finance, and computer-related courses. The program begins each August and January and lasts for one academic semester (approximately 16 weeks in length). The academic load is 15 credit hours for the semester (equivalent to four or five courses).
  • Certificate Program - This program is designed to offer academic and career training in a variety of subject areas for an academic year. The program begins each August. The academic load is 15 credit hours per semester. Students enjoy a homestay experience by living with a host family for the academic year.
  • Degree Program - This two-year Associate Degree program is designed to provide career skills for those who are returning home, while also offering transferability of credits to a U.S. four-year college or university. After living with a host family the first academic year, students live independently in apartments during their second year, at their own expense. The program includes a total of 60 credit hours of tuition and begins each August. Degrees are offered in many areas, including arts & sciences, criminal justice, computer science/information technology, education, communications, and business administration.

Living Arrangements

Applicants for the Certificate Program or those entering the first year of the Degree program (beginning in August) may choose to live with an American roommate in a college dormitory during academic sessions. During orientations and holidays, the student lives with a Mentor Family in the community. This option is currently limited to a select group of partner colleges and only available if it is offered at a college that meets the student's academic requirements. If interested, please contact the National Office for more information.