Enhance Your English and Explore American Culture
Adapted from our popular Communication and Culture Program for international university students and professionals, this summer youth program offers international high school students (ages 14-17) an enriching, transformational educational experience. Our academic expertise, professional instructors and beautiful California campus make this an exciting opportunity for students to grow beyond their expectations.
Program Benefits
Throughout the program, students will:
- Gain confidence and skills in English speaking and listening
- Strengthen pronunciation and verbal presentation skills
- Learn more about American culture and customs
- Practice American English natural speech patterns and idiom
Program Details
This four-week program includes 15 hours of instruction per week and combines a variety of in-classroom learning and engaging activities with UC Davis students. Daily instruction consists of three 50-minute classes and includes presentations, lectures, group projects, discussion sessions and homework. Courses include U.S. Society and Culture, Intercultural Communication Skills and Everyday Expressions and Idioms.
- Small classes (about 15-20 students in most cases)
- Highly qualified and experienced instructors
- Technology-driven classrooms, including educational technology and AI
- Daily recreational, cultural and social activities with UC Davis student leaders
- Optional weekend trips may include Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, San Francisco and Los Angeles
Dates and Fees
- Winter Session 2027: January 25-February 5, 2027
- Summer Session I 2027: July 5-16, 2027
- Summer Session II 2027: July 19-30, 2027
- Winter Session 2028: January 10-21, 2028
- Summer Session I 2028: July 3-14, 2028
- Summer Session II 2028: July 17-28, 2028
English Language Requirement
Students will be required to take an English Placement Test to determine eligibility. To optimize learning, we require a minimum English level of CEFR level B1. This is equivalent to:
- TOEFL IBT: 3 (as of January 2026, previously 55/120)
- TOEFL PBT: 480
- IELTS: 4.5
- Duolingo: 80
- Michigan English Placement Test: 38
Program Courses
- Everyday Expressions and Idioms
- This course is designed to help students improve their understanding of the informal speech patterns used by English-speaking Americans and build confidence listening to and speaking English. Students will learn common American expressions and idioms, practice using them through speaking and writing, and explore the cultural contexts in which they are used. Classroom activities, assignments and quizzes are designed to reinforce students' understanding and use of these common expressions and idioms.
- U.S. Society and Culture
- This course introduces students to life and culture in the United States through the exploration of historical events, social values, traditions and popular culture. Students will strengthen their critical thinking skills while improving their English reading, writing and discussion skills through engaging classroom activities. Topics include core American values, significant historical events and contemporary culture. Readings, videos, group discussions, presentations and reflective writing assignments encourage students to analyze cultural perspectives and deepen their understanding of life in the United States.
