Forum Intensive English Center (Washington D.C. Metro Area) Forum Intensive English Center (FIEC) is a nationally accredited language school and is SEVP-approved, meaning it is authorized by the U.S. federal government to enroll non-immigrant students. Forum was established in 2013 and has hosted hundreds of students from all around the world from international students, to local immigrants and tourists.
FIEC is located next to the nation's capital in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. Alexandria's historic district is one of the most beautiful cities in the Washington D.C. metro area and is known for its historic architecture and variety of restaurants, shops and cafes. Forum is just 15 minutes away from the White House and is metro accessible. Students take advantage of world-class museums and free attractions in the nation’s capital and engage in traditional American celebrations.
We believe in the power of dialogue! Instructors use non-traditional, student-centered techniques that keep classes exciting and practical for academic settings, the workplace and everyday life in America. Forum’s integrated communicative approach focuses on dialogues, role-plays, simulations and other interactive techniques that bridge the gap between knowing and using language structures in appropriate contexts.
Forum is known for its effective program and welcoming environment. Forum has a full-time Intensive English Program and part-time English language and TOEFL/IELTS preparation courses. All of the programs listed below were developed by Forum’s co-founder and Academic Director, Dr. Susanna McPhilomy, who was a recipient of the 2017 Kennedy Center’s Inspirational Teacher Awards.
Student Testimonials "I took two courses and I have significantly improved my English language skills: speaking, reading and writing comprehension, and listening. The teacher addressed all my concerns and needs and used varied teaching and learning strategies. Every class was different and I never got bored. The classes have a high academic standard. I had fun every day."
Ricardo, Argentina
"Wonderful school, with special intensive approach. This school has helped me to master many useful skills to prepare for TOEFL! I would recommend everyone to improve your English in this school."
Eric, Ukraine
Two months ago I couldn't imagine that at this time I would be speaking and writing English like I can now. So I'm such proud of me and I just want to say "Thank you" for all of you guys, because all of you have been contributed for my growth"
Pedro, Portugal
The Intensive English Program (IEP) is designed for international students seeking to improve their English for academic, professional and personal purposes. The program provides in-depth study of core language skills and extensive practice of academic skills.
The IEP is geared toward academic English and preparing students with the necessary English skills to continue on to an American college or university. Although the curriculum is tailored more toward academic English, this program also prepares students with the necessary listening, speaking, reading and writing skills to successfully function in professional and social settings. The Intensive program provides an in-depth and comprehensive study as well as extensive practice of key language skills in casual to formal settings.
The Intensive Program consists of 7 levels: Basic 1, Basic 2, Intermediate 3, Intermediate 4, Advanced 5, Test Preparation 6 (either TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic preparation depending on the demand) and College Preparation 7. There is also an Advanced Level 6 that is available to students who do not need to take the IELTS or the TOEFL exams.
One of the best ways to learn a language is to simply use it. Whether you are looking to boost your communication abilities or maintain your already advanced level of fluency, the English Gym service allows you to exercise your English-speaking muscles and keep them in shape!
Instructors build a class around a specific topic and use creative activities to make the topics come to life. These speaking classes are one hour long and are offered twice a week. There is a group for beginners and another group for intermediate to advanced level students.
These classes are taught in a workshop-style atmosphere that will allow you to build and maintain your English fluency while boosting your confidence in experimenting with the language.
Our highly trained instructors are prepared with interactive teaching strategies to keep the conversation going!
The goals of the Test Preparation Program are to provide ESL learners with a condensed curriculum that will prepare students for and help them take the IELTS Academic or General exam or the TOEFL iBT exam by maximizing their score in the key learning sections: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to various learning tutorials and academic materials for specific sections enabling them to improve their knowledge and understanding of test-taking strategies as well as their potential.
This program is offered at a five or eight-week interval. The five-week program provides 75 hours of training and the eight-week program provides 120 hours of training. Both programs are 15 hours per week, with classes held three hours every day Monday through Friday. Please call or e-mail to check the availability of the program and class times; the class times offered will depend on the enrollment for each session.