Pre-MBA and Pre-Masters

The Pre-MBA and Pre-Master's program is a semester-long program for international students focused on graduate student preparation including GMAT and GRE preparation, assistance with applications to SDSU and other universities, as well as optional TOEFL/IELTS preparation.

Program Highlights

• TOEFL Waiver
  
  Students applying to SDSU graduate degree programs may be eligible to receive a TOEFL wavier after completing advanced levels.




• Test Preparation
  
  GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS preparation are specifically designed to meet the needs of international students.




• Simulated GMAT and GRE Practice Exams
  
  GMAT and GRE test sessions are held during the semester to allow students to strengthen their test-taking skills.




• Graduate School Application Assistance
  
  Students receive advising on academic matters, career goals, university selection, and graduate school application preparation.




• Information Sessions
  
  Local university representatives visit the ALI to present their programs and admissions requirements to ALI students.

• Class Observation
  
  Students may visit SDSU university classes, in select departments, to observe American academic culture and interact with university students and professors.

Testing and Placement

The Pre-MBA and Pre-Master's program offers instruction for high-intermediate to advanced levels. Students are given placement tests in key skill areas (listening, reading, and writing) and are placed in classes according to their needs and abilities. At the end of the term, students have the option to test again to measure their progress.

Curriculum

• GMAT and GRE
  
  Courses specifically designed for international students include all GMAT and GRE sections.




• TOEFL and IELTS
  
  Classes are available to help students develop specific skills and test-taking strategies.




• Writing Skills
  
  Students develop advanced academic, business, and research writing skills.




• Reading Skills
  
  Students learn strategies to increase comprehension and effectively manage the large volume of reading material in graduate programs.




• Communication Skills
  
  Students develop effective presentation and discussion techniques, and improve speaking and comprehension skills. An additional pronunciation clinic is available for students who want to further improve their pronunciation.




• Methods of Instruction
  
  Students learn through a variety of methods including team work, class discussions, and guest presenters to better prepare them for the learning environment in American universities.




• Seminars and Workshops
  
  Topics include resume writing, statements of purpose, interview techniques, and more.




• Popular Electives
  
  Elective courses are offered each semester to further support test-taking skills, to improve language proficiency, and to increase knowledge of U.S. culture. Courses vary by session.
  
  Popular electives include:
  • Computerized Grad Test Prep
  • Internet-based TOEFL Prep
  • IELTS Prep
  • Advanced Vocabulary
  • Accent Improvement
  • Speed Reading
  • English Through Dance
  • English Through Sports

Sample Schedule

Pronunciation Clinic

The ALI offers students free personalized articulation and accent modification using specialized software, customized lab activities, and teacher-created materials.

Pre-MBA and Pre-Master's Plus

Opportunity to take one or two classes with American students.

• Open to advanced students who test above Pre-MBA and Pre-Master's level 106.
• Students work closely with their ALI advisors to choose SDSU classes.
• Students earn SDSU credit in courses with American students in select departments. Classes are on a space available basis.
• Official SDSU transcripts and transferable credit are awarded.
• Additional fees apply on a per-class basis.

Universities where Pre-MBA and Pre-Master's students have obtained their graduate degrees:

Alliant University, Babson College, Case Western Reserve, Claremont (Peter Drucker), Clarke, Columbia, CSU Fullerton, CSU Hayward, CSU Long Beach, CSU San Bernardino, CSU San Marcos, Harvard University, INSEAD, London School of Business, New York University (NYU), Oregon State University, Pace University, Pepperdine, Purdue University, San Francisco State, San Diego State University, Thunderbird, Tulane, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, University of Chicago, University of Colorado, University of Denver, University of Miami, University of Missouri, University of Portland, University of San Diego, and Washington University in St. Louis.