The Intercultural Communication Center (ICC) offers on-going language support in a format designed to allow full-time students to attend a series of short workshops and classes during the length of their program. The goal of our center is to help students develop the skills needed to successfully complete their degree programs. We do not offer traditional ESL language classes; our classes instead focus on the types of skills needed for academic success, and are aimed at students who have at least a 600 minimum TOEFL (the score generally required for students in academic programs at Carnegie Mellon). The ICC does not generally fit the needs of exchange students since those students are often on campus for only one or two semesters, and may either need more basic ESL training than we can offer, or be looking for advanced classes in writing, linguistics or public speaking.

Exchange students can use the following:

Placement Interview
During this 20 minute interview, a staff member will talk with you, offer feedback about your language skills and help you clarify your language goals. In addition, we can give you recommendations about outside classes or self-paced work which would best help you improve your English skills. Call our office to schedule an appointment. Note that interviews are not offered every week and you may have to wait several weeks before scheduling an appointment.

Self-paced Videos
Self-paced video appointments allow students to work at their own pace on both video and audio tapes (especially useful for pronunciation and listening).

Modern Languages
The MLRC is open to anyone at Carnegie Mellon who has an ID card. This center contains audio, video, and computer equipment for language learning. We can give you a list of ESL tapes and software which you can use at the MLRC.

Carnegie Mellon Clubs
Participation in these activities can help you develop both language skills and an understanding of American culture and customs. Many advanced speakers find that they can best improve their English skills by taking classes with Americans in fields other than ESL.

Referrals (ESL classes in Pittsburgh)
Our office has information on ESL classes in the local area. Many of these classes are either free or very inexpensive. This information is also of benefit to family members.