English Language Academic Pathway

Students will gain the language proficiency, academic skills, and cultural confidence to thrive in mainstream coursework.

A comprehensive and immersive program designed for international students in grades 7–11 to develop English proficiency and academic readiness for success in an American school setting.

Program Overview
  • Duration: 36-week, full-time academic year
  • Start Date: Fall 2026
  • Visa Requirement: F-1 Student Visa

This program is ideal for students who score 75 or below on the Duolingo English Test (DET) and are not yet ready for full academic coursework in English.

Academic Experience

Students learn in a small, supportive cohort and engage in five focused courses each day:

  1. Listening & Speaking
  2. Reading & Writing
  3. Vocabulary, Conversation & Pronunciation
  4. Grammar & Fluency
  5. Academic Readiness Skills & American Cultural Etiquette

In addition, students participate alongside American peers in electives such as physical education, art, and music—providing meaningful daily integration into school life.

Host Family Experience

A key component of the program is cultural immersion outside the classroom.

Students live with carefully vetted American Christian host families, providing a safe, supportive, and authentic environment to practice English and experience daily life in the United States.

A Timely Opportunity

For students considering long-term education in the U.S., beginning earlier can provide a meaningful advantage.

Under the current F-1 “Duration of Status” framework, students who maintain status may continue through high school, university, and authorized practical training opportunities.

As policies evolve, many families are choosing to begin their U.S. educational journey sooner rather than wait.

Program Goals

Upon completion, students will be equipped with:

  • Strong English language proficiency
  • Academic readiness for credit-bearing coursework
  • Cultural confidence in an American school setting

They will be fully prepared to transition into Maranatha’s mainstream academic program.

Meet 

Melanie Hurlbut

International Student Program Director

Welcome to Maranatha's International Student Program. Here students from around the world receive a Christ-centered education in a community where they are known, supported, and challenged. Through strong English development, rigorous college preparation, and life with experienced homestay families, we equip students not only for university success but for a life that reflects Christian love, service, and excellence.
My WeChat ID: wxid_vj1z7kvzgju12
internationaladmissions@mcamustangs.org
612-433-4294

Your Pathway Starts Here

Build the language skills and cultural confidence needed to thrive in a U.S. classroom. Begin your F-1 visa application process and prepare for a transformative academic year.

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