International Summer Academy

Students in the academic track will take a 3-credit hour course. Students are expected to meet the same course requirements as any Calvin student. Students will be supported by an Academic Coach: a trained teacher who attends classes alongside them in the morning and leads a study period (academic coaching session) with the students following the class. Academic Coaches model and teach students how to be successful in both their specific course and in university.

Students in this track will have the option to enroll in an advanced English language study group to develop their academic English skills. This language study group is intended for advanced English speakers.

Please note: Students in this track will be assessed upon arrival to determine their eligibility in the Academic track.

The English immersion track is for students who are at an intermediate level of English. This track will focus on English grammar, comprehension, and speaking skills improvement while living and experience in an American campus. Participants in this track will learn in a diverse population.

Students in this track will take an English course of three hours classroom time in the morning, followed by two hours of coaching to practice language skills and review preparation for Duolingo (Duolingo being offered at end of program, at no cost). These academic sessions may include small group and individual sessions to practice specific language skills areas, such as grammar, comprehension, or speaking skills.

Participants in the English immersion track program will receive a certificate of completion from Calvin University.

Calvin welcomes International Summer Academy students from all over the world. Participants will be enriched through their interactions with one another as well as their immersion in an American university campus.

Participants in this program also benefit tremendously from the activities and events held outside of class time. Some activities may include guest speakers, a trip to Chicago, shopping, and going to the movies. Worship services at local churches, Bible studies, and daily devotions give participants the opportunity to grow in their walk with God. Students in this program are free to use campus facilities, such as the gymnasium, pool, computer labs, library, etc.

The four weeks of work, worship, and play during the International Summer Academy give scholars the opportunity to build and maintain a sense of true community and lifelong friendships.