Learning English as your second -- or third, or fourth -- language can make an impressive addition to your resume in your home country, or create a great starting off point for a new life in an English-speaking nation. While everyone knows that learning a new language -- English, in particular -- can be difficult, the task is made easier with the English as a Second Language (ESL) program.

If you're looking to study in the states you'll find that there are two distinct ways to embark on this linguistic journey. Although, they share similarities they appeal to slightly different needs and goals.

Try Out Your English Skills Traditional Colleges and Universities
For aspiring international students who want a chance to not only learn English but expand their educational horizons as well, American colleges are the perfect solution. From community colleges to private universities, many of the United States' schools of higher education offer ESL programs that provide you with 18 to 25 hours a week of instruction in the English language as well as a student visa.

Depending on the college and your degree of fluency in English, you may also be allowed to take conventional college courses taught in English, opening up a new world of opportunity for both your education and career in the process.

Best of all, thanks to the community nature of most college campuses you'll have the chance to meet students from all over the United States and world, while practicing your English in everyday situations. Not only will you be introduced to a variety of different English dialects and accents, you'll be able to enhance your vocabulary and conversational skills at a colloquial level.

Learn English Exclusively at an ESL School
Often located in the vicinity of American colleges and universities, private ESL schools offer a few perks of their own: students enjoy more flexible scheduling, learn amidst a student body composed of other ESL students, and can choose shorter program lengths thanks to the frequent start of new terms.

In some private ESL schools, students who have demonstrated a higher proficiency in the English language may be eligible to attend a few courses held by local colleges. And, as opposed to ESL programs at traditional college and universities, ESL private schools sometimes arrange for study abroad programs to other countries, enabling students to visit new regions while still working on and improving their English comprehension and conversation skills.

Things to Remember
Before you jump into an ESL program or school, research and evaluate whether the school has the reputation and the resources for delivering you with the education you need. Always keep an eye out for programs accredited by organizations like The Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA), and search out programs and schools with low student-teach ratios. The first will assure that you get a proper and comprehensive ESL education, while the latter will translate to more personal attention and a better chance at excelling - for you.

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