ISC student testimonial

Name: Mailizar
Home country: Indonesia
Program: Graduate English preparation
Major: MEd Educational Technology

Happy international student at James Madison University

“A very good teacher and a very interesting curriculum drive me to enjoy learning in the International Study Center. I have been preparing not only English skill but also study skill and American culture. The program helps me to get a success in studying in one of America's top universities: James Madison University. This is really interesting experience that I have never had before.”

Academic pathways to your degree at James Madison University

FOUNDATION DIPLOMA: fast-track access to 2nd (sophomore) year undergraduate entry
PRE-MASTER'S: specialist preparation for Graduate School

These programs, taught at the on-campus International Study Center, offer intensive English language and academic preparation for a degree. They are the best route to James Madison University for international students.

Benefits of the Foundation Diploma and Pre-Master's:

    Apply now!
  • The exact foundation necessary for success at one of the top-ranked public universities in the USA
  • Earn valuable university credits while improving your English proficiency
  • No TOEFL or IELTS score required for entry (you can take our English Test instead) 
  • Full integration into university life and American culture
  • Customized curriculum, small class sizes and the highest levels of international student support

Read more about the Foundation Diploma and Pre-Master's program for international students.

Who are the courses for?

International students who:

  • want to study abroad in the USA
  • have met the academic requirements for entry to James Madison University
  • need to improve their English Language to reach degree standard

When do the courses start?

Every January, May and August.

If you want to start in the Spring Semester 2011, apply now to take advantage of our simple application process.

Joining this Fall? Download August 2010 pre-arrival information (Pdf download icon 105kB)

How do I progress to a degree?

You will be conditionally admitted to a JMU undergraduate major or graduate program.

Undergraduates enter the second year of a bachelor's degree when they obtain 24 university credits with satisfactory grades. Graduates join a master's degree when their English level reaches the equivalent of TOEFL 570 PBT/88 iBT.


Why choose James Madison University?

  • A highly-ranked outstanding state University: nationally recognized for its academics and undergraduate research opportunities
  • Lower fees than most private universities: JMU offers excellent value for money
  • Highest graduation rate among universities in the south of the USA: 81%
  • International community: students from 70 countries on campus
  • Beautiful location in Virginia: just two hours from Washington, D.C.
  • Exceptional level of student involvement: in the classroom, through internships and with over 300 student organizations

Read more about studying abroad at James Madison University.