OUR PROGRAM
The Portland Center offers a 3 to 12-month academic study abroad program at Portland State University. Our program allows you to take PSU regular courses without meeting PSU’s minimum English language proficiency requirement. The Portland Center’s special academic support makes this possible.
PROGRAM COURSE LOAD
Our students may register for up to 16 credits per term including a required course (4 credits) called Academic English every term. This Academic English course is open only to Portland Center program students and advantageous to our students because it's tailored to their specific needs. Students with a qualifying TOEFL score may also take more regular PSU courses as electives.
Courseload based on TOEFL/IELTS level
Students with a TOEFL iBT 70 /IELTS 5.0 or lower may take:
- Academic English (4 credits)
- ESL course #1 (4-6 credits)
- PSU course #1 (4 credits)
- PSU course #2 (2-4 credits, Optional)
Students with a TOEFL iBT 71/IELTS 5.5 or higher may take:
- Academic English (4 credits)
- PSU course #1 (4 credits)
- PSU course #2 (4 credits)
- PSU course #3 (4 credits, Optional)