What is EAP?
English for Academic Purposes (EAP) is a series of courses that help students develop the Academic English skills needed for success in college courses. Students will receive direct instruction, participate in pair and group assignments, and utilize language learning technology to develop Academic English. In addition to coursework, students enrolled in the EAP program have access to a Student Success Advisor who is located in the Lee Campus Office of Academic Advising and instructional assistance in our Academic Support Center. Assistance provided is one-on-one tutoring, reading materials, and grammar modules. Students also have access to College resources including the library, and activities through the Office of Student Engagement.
Students in the EAP program are coming from more than thirty different countries speaking more than fourteen different languages. The program includes students of both traditional and non-traditional ages, with varied life experiences. Diversity is celebrated throughout the program. Course and program activities allow students the opportunity to build new relationships and engage in learning experiences with students from different educational and cultural backgrounds. The students in the program share the desire to acquire Academic English to succeed in college and careers.
Mission
In the EAP program, we teach students Academic English through Writing, Reading, Listening/Speaking, and Grammar courses. The courses prepare students to succeed in college and in careers.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of the EAP program, the student will:
- Be prepared to succeed in English classes
- Read English at the college level
- Write English at the college level
- Apply learning strategies in college level coursework
- Achieve success within competitive academic and professional environments
How many levels does the EAP program offer?
- There are three levels: 3-5. We do not offer basic English (Level 1 & 2).
There are four classes for Levels 3, 4, and 5:
- Speech and Listening (3 credits)
- Grammar (3 credits)
- Reading (3 credits)
- Writing (3 credits)
What is the sequence of courses?
After completing an assessment, students will be placed into one of three levels (3-5). Courses in level 5 count as General Education elective credit:
| EAP Levels | Test Score Average Required | EAP Course Descriptions | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 3 | 60-74 | EAP 0300 Speech/Listening 3 Credits | EAP 0320 Reading 3 Credits | EAP 0340 Writing 3 Credits | EAP 0360 Grammar 3 Credits | |
| Level 4 | 75-89 | EAP 0400 Speech/Listening 3 Credits | EAP 0420 Reading 3 Credits | EAP 0440 Writing 3 Credits | EAP 0460 Grammar 3 Credits | |
| Level 5 | 90-105 | EAP 1500 Speech/Listening 3 Credits | EAP 1520 Reading 3 Credits | EAP 1540 Writing 3 Credits | EAP 1560 Grammar 3 Credits | |
By successfully completing the EAP course sequence, students will have acquired the language skills needed for college-level coursework.
The Reading and Speech/Listening courses emphasize the development of academic vocabulary, academic lecture/text discourse comprehension, note-taking, and public speaking.
The Writing and Grammar classes emphasize the use of Standard English grammar, punctuation, usage, and discourse structures.
Course assignments and assessments ask students to use Academic English for authentic purposes that mirror the academic listening, speaking, reading and writing they will use in college courses and professional environments.
At the completion of level 4, the student may elect to take the regular placement exam for Reading, Writing, and Math. If the student achieves college-level competency in communication, they may opt out of EAP.
At the completion of level 5, the student must take the math placement test to demonstrate college-level competency in computation.
How long will the classes last?
Classes last a semester. Semesters are as follow: Fall term: August - December Spring term: January - April Summer term: May - August
What is the class schedule?
Classes meet weekdays late in the afternoon and evenings, and the hours vary.
Can I get financial aid?
Financial aid questions can be answered in the Office of Student Financial Aid.
What steps are required to get started in EAP?
Apply to FSW
- Complete an admissions application online at https://www.fsw.edu/admissions#apply
- Identify your student type and click on the tile that best describes you
- Click “Apply Online” to complete the admissions application
- Select “AA GENR” on the application
- Complete the application and pay the $30 application fee
Submit Your Transcripts
- Submit all high school/GED and college transcripts to FSW. Foreign transcripts must be evaluated and translated by a NACES approved agency.
- See a list of agencies at https://www.fsw.edu/admissions/transcripts
Take Your EAP Placement Test
- When you have received your FSW student identification number, make an appointment for EAP testing at https://www.fsw.edu/testing/placementregistration
Complete Your Online New Student Orientation
- To complete Orientation, visit the FSW homepage, click the Canvas icon, and login with your Portal username and password. On the Dashboard, click on the FSW Online Orientation course. For more information, please visit https://www.fsw.edu/orientation.
Meet with Your Student Success Advisor and Register for Classes
- Once you have completed testing and orientation, schedule an appointment with your Student Success Advisor. You will receive an email with instructions to schedule a workshop or an appointment with your Advisor.
What is the purpose of the EAP placement test?
The results of the test will allow the staff to place students in the appropriate level based on their ability to read, write, speak, and listen in English. This allows faculty to target instruction based on the students' needs.
How much do the classes cost?
After a student is registered and admitted to Florida SouthWestern State College, the costs will vary depending on the Residency Declaration status.
For more information go to: Tuition Costs