All non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in the English
language. Upon arrival at the University, students may be required to have
their English language skills assessed by the American Language Program (ALP)
of Columbia University.
Should the assessment results warrant, students may be asked to take English
language courses in addition to those in their department of study.
In order to hold a teaching appointment, all
non-native English speakers must sit for the SPEAK test of spoken English
administered by the ALP. Based on the test results, students may be exempted
from or placed into a special course for international teaching fellows offered
each fall, English Z0850 (International Teaching Fellows Training),
which provides language, pedagogical, and cultural training. For more
information, students should contact their departmental administrator.