Forum Intensive English Center (Washington D.C. Metro Area)

Forum Intensive English Center (FIEC) is a nationally accredited language school and is SEVP-approved, meaning it is authorized by the U.S. federal government to enroll non-immigrant students. Forum was established in 2013 and has hosted hundreds of students from all around the world from international students, to local immigrants and tourists.    

FIEC is located next to the nation's capital in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. Alexandria's historic district is one of the most beautiful cities in the Washington D.C. metro area and is known for its historic architecture and variety of restaurants, shops and cafes. Forum is just 15 minutes away from the White House and is metro accessible.  Students take advantage of world-class museums and free attractions in the nation’s capital and engage in traditional American celebrations. 

We believe in the power of dialogue! Instructors use non-traditional, student-centered techniques that keep classes exciting and practical for academic settings, the workplace and everyday life in America. Forum’s integrated communicative approach focuses on dialogues, role-plays, simulations and other interactive techniques that bridge the gap between knowing and using language structures in appropriate contexts.   

Forum is known for its effective program and welcoming environment.  Forum has a full-time Intensive English Program and part-time English language and TOEFL/IELTS preparation courses. All of the programs listed below were developed by Forum’s co-founder and Academic Director, Dr. Susanna McPhilomy, who was a recipient of the 2017 Kennedy Center’s Inspirational Teacher Awards. 

Intensive English Program

The Intensive English Program (IEP) is designed for international students seeking to improve their English for academic, professional and personal purposes. The program provides in-depth study of core language skills and extensive practice of academic skills. 

The IEP is geared toward academic English and preparing students with the necessary English skills to continue on to an American college or university.  Although the curriculum is tailored more toward academic English, this program also prepares students with the necessary listening, speaking, reading and writing skills to successfully function in professional and social settings.  The Intensive program provides an in-depth and comprehensive study as well as extensive practice of key language skills in casual to formal settings.

The Intensive Program consists of 7 levels: Basic 1, Basic 2, Intermediate 3, Intermediate 4, Advanced 5, Test Preparation 6 (either TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic preparation depending on the demand) and College Preparation 7.  There is also an Advanced Level 6 that is available to students who do not need to take the IELTS or the TOEFL exams. 

Semi-Intensive Program

The Semi-Intensive English Program focuses more on general English for social and professional purposes with less of an emphasis on English for academic preparation.  This program provides a concise overview of critical language skills that can be used in a variety of settings.  Although the Semi-Intensive program is not as comprehensive as the Intensive Program, learners will have a strong foundation of language use in various settings.

The Semi-Intensive program consists of 16 levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advance and Superior each of which are divided into four sub-levels. 

In addition to the Semi-Intensive Program, Forum also has part-time workshops and test preparation programs. Please contact us for more information. 

Student Testimonials

 "I took two courses and I have significantly improved my English language skills: speaking, reading and writing comprehension, and listening.  The teacher addressed all my concerns and needs and used varied teaching and learning strategies.  Every class was different and I never got bored. The classes have a high academic standard. I had fun every day."

Ricardo, Argentina

 "Wonderful school, with special intensive approach. This school has helped me to master many useful skills to prepare for TOEFL! I would recommend everyone to improve your English in this school."

Eric, Ukraine

Two months ago I couldn't imagine that at this time I would be speaking and writing English like I can now. So I'm such proud of me and I just want to say "Thank you" for all of you guys, because all of you have been contributed for my growth"

Pedro, Portugal