Admissions

Application Requirements


Because of the program's graduate-level curriculum, all applicants must have a B.A., B.S., or an equivalent undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university to apply to the program. The only exception is graduating seniors, who receive provisional acceptance. In order to receive final acceptance, graduating seniors must submit a copy of their diploma before start of the program.

Teaching experience is not required to apply to the TESOL Certificate Program. Students will participate in supervised team student teaching as part of the program.

Online Application:

Apply here

The online application and all supporting materials must be submitted by the established deadlines. Late applications will be accepted on a case-by-case basis if space is available. Contact tesolcertprog@tc.columbia.edu for more information.

Please note: It will take up to three weeks to process the complete application.

Application Instructions:

 For step-by-step instructions on completing the online application, click here.

Application Checklist:

  • Completed online application
  • Personal statement
  • 2 letters of recommendation. They can be academic or professional
  • Current CV or resume
  • Official transcripts (a Bachelors degree or equivalent is required to attend this program.)
  • Official copies of language proficiency test scores (non-native English speakers only)
  • Non-refundable application fee 
    • $50 (USD) for domestic applicants
    • $125 (USD) for international applicants
  • Interview, if necessary

Mailing Address:

All submitted materials should clearly state the applicant's name. Official transcripts must arrive in envelopes sealed by the issuing institutions certifying conferral of a bachelor's degree.

TESOL Certificate Program

525 West 120th Street, Box 60

Zankel Building, 36GD

New York, NY, 10027-6696

If your institution issues electronic official transcripts, the issuing institution must email the e-transcript to tesolcertprog@tc.columbia.edu.

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