Before attending college, or whenever you plan to study overseas, planning is a crucial part that should not be overlooked.  Most overseas students plan to take some English Language courses. Here are some tips you can consider:

1.  Think about what kind of program you are interested in attending.  Do you plan to get a serious academic program or simply a casual vacation program?

2.  Do you have budget allocated to spend on tuition, room, meals, activities, and miscellaneous items etc?

3.  Where do you want to go to school? In a large city, small home town, in a suburb, or in a particular part of the country?

4.  Check to see if the teachers are professionally trained and experienced language instructors.

5.  Average class size? Your goal in limit to 10 students?

6.  What living accommodations does the program provide? Does the program make all housing arrangements for you or will they assist you  to find housing?

7.  What kind of services will the school provide - international student advisors, assistance with the university of college admissions, orientation, health care or counseling?

8.  Any extra-curricular activities? Are there clubs or sports team to join?

9.  What is the school setting? Is it a large or small school?

10.  Does the school permit advanced level students to take classes at the university or a nearby college?

11.  Is the school accredited? Many college and university ESL programs are accredited through their university of college.