“The ability to communicate effectively in English—to read, write and speak the language fluently—is vital to your success as a [university] student. Receipt of a USC … degree signifies that its holder is fully qualified to conduct academic and professional pursuits in English.” USC Graduate and International Admissions’ Statement

Since 1959, the American Language Institute (ALI) has been providing English language instruction, assessment, and resources to support the academic and professional success of non-native speakers of English pursuing a degree at USC.

The ALI offers English language courses for those students who want to improve their English as well as those who are required to take classes as a result of taking the International Student English (ISE) exam. The ALI is also responsible for testing and providing English language instruction for the university's international teaching assistants.