The SSALI Experience is safe and welcoming.

The Sonoma State American Language Institute (SSALI) is located in scenic Northern California near the rural beauty of the world-famous Wine Country and one hour from San Francisco. The spectacular Pacific coast, impressive redwood forests, and numerous parks are only minutes from campus. SSALI is the perfect program for those desiring challenging classes taught in a supportive and family-like environment.

Academics

• The academic program is a professionally designed curriculum for students from high beginning to advanced levels of English proficiency.
• Students receive instruction in grammar, composition, oral communication, reading & vocabulary.
• Class size averages 12-15 students. Students get a lot of individual attention.
• Students study 20 - 25 hours/week. Classes are 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• Up-to-date textbooks and multi-media materials are used for instruction.
• There are reading, listening and computer labs which provide opportunities for independent study.
• Students can select from a variety of special elective classes such as TOEFL Preparation, American Culture & Conversation, Pronunciation, Listening, Idioms & Slang, English through Music.
• The SSALI faculty are talented, dedicated professionals who really care about their students.

Special Features

• University ID card for use of campus facilities: library, media resources, computer labs, recreation center, swimming pool, sports facilities
• Free wireless internet access in all campus buildings
• Conversation partner with an American student or community volunteer
• Attendance and graduation certificates
• College and university admissions assistance
• Personal counseling to help students with academic problems or cultural adjustments
• Schulz Information Center, the university library
• New Recreation Center with gyms, dance studios, climbing wall, weight room
• Airport pick-up service at San Francisco International Airport
• Supportive, family-like environment in a beautiful and safe community

Concurrent Enrollment and Conditional Admission

• Enrollment in university courses through Open University for advanced students
• Conditional admission into Sonoma State University for eligible students
• TOEFL waiver for Sonoma State University undergraduate programs for students who successfully complete the advanced level at SSALI

Housing

SSALI students have several housing options, but most choose a homestay; the cost is $625/month and includes 16 meals/week. Some students may choose a homestay without meals. All SSALI homestays are within a short walk or bicycle ride from campus. On-campus housing may be available in the attractive townhouse suites or apartments. Off-campus apartments and shared rentals may also be available. Prices vary widely.

Activities

Each semester students enjoy a number of social and cultural activities. Students can join university groups like ISA (International Students' Association), Outdoor Pursuits (camping and hiking trips), JUMP (volunteer in the community), and Wine Club. The university also sponsors activities such as Asian Heritage Month and the International Film Festival. Students can also have a conversation partner, join lunch conversation groups, and attend plays, concerts and special sporting events. Many students participate in sports teams playing baseball, soccer, and volleyball. The cost for all activities is minimal. Some sample activities are:

• Welcome Pizza Party
• San Francisco & Alcatraz Trip
• Winery and Redwood Forest Tour
• Holiday Party
• Halloween Party
• Thanksgiving with an American Family
• Level parties or activities
• Potluck dinners at a teacher's home
• Sacramento Trip
• 6 Flags/Marine World Amusement Park
• Spring Dance Party
• Intramural sports
• Ice Cream Social
• Graduation Party

Calendar and Costs

The University

Sonoma State University offers majors in the arts and humanities, the natural sciences, and the social sciences, as well as several outstanding professional programs. There are now 41 bachelor's degrees, 14 master's degrees and 9 teaching specialist and service credentials. Some of the degrees offered are: