Improve your English language skills while building your knowledge of U.S. culture with the Academic English program.
The Academic English (AE) program is focused on helping you acquire the English Language skills required to be successful in the academic programs at George Mason. You can also choose electives of interest, learn industry-specific vocabulary, and prepare for standardized tests.
This program will help you develop skills to succeed beyond the classroom. You'll learn to:
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use vocabulary common to academic disciplines;
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take accurate notes in academic lectures and presentations;
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read, understand, and evaluate academic texts;
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present spoken and written ideas accurately and effectively in English; and
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write research papers with proper use of citations and references.
AE Levels
All students take a placement exam during orientation to determine their AE level. You can estimate your level based on your standardized test scores (TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Duolingo).
Gateway will determine the best AE course level for you based on your language assessment scores in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
The table below will help you compare your standardized English proficiency scores with Gateway AE levels. Students who submit valid TOEFL iBT or IELTS scores may be eligible for assured AE level placement.
| Estimated AE Level | TOEFL iBT | IELTS | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1.0 | 3.0 | 40 |
| 2 | 1.5–2.0 | 3.5 | 50 |
| 3 | 2.5 | 4.5 | 70 |
| 4 | 3.0 | 5.0 | 80 |
| 5 | 3.5 | 5.5 | 90 |
| 6 | 4.0 | 6.0 | 100 |
| 7 | 4.5 | 6.5 | 110 |
AE Program Structure
Start Dates: August for the fall semester, January for the spring semester, and May for the summer semester
Program Length: 16 weeks in the fall and spring, and 11 weeks in the summer
Classroom Time: 18 to 20 hours per week in the fall and spring, and 25 hours per week in the summer
Minimum Enrollment: One semester
AE Levels: There are seven levels ranging from beginner to advanced/proficient. Course offerings and levels vary by semester based on student enrollment and program needs. Not all levels may be offered every term.
Application Requirements: You must be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma
Progression Requirements: After completing AE levels, students can progress to their degree program. Students progressing in fall 2026 can continue to International Year One or Graduate Pathway programs. Students progressing in January 2027 or later can continue to Gateway undergraduate programs or direct entry graduate programs.
Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation
AE Calendar
| Event | Fall 2026 | Spring 2027 | Summer 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Orientation Week | August 17–21 | January 11–15 | May 10–14 |
| AE First Day of Classes | August 24 | January 19 | May 17 |
| AE Exam Period | December 3–8 | April 29–May 4 | July 20–23 |
| AE Last Day of Class | December 8 | May 4 | July 23 |
For holidays during semesters, refer to the George Mason Academic Calendar.