TESOL FAQs

TESOL is an acronym used to describe the field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. Throughout the history of language teaching, we have used numerous terms to describe the field such as:

• TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
• TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language)
• TEAL (Teaching English as an Additional Language) and several other terms.

However, the field as a whole has never been able to agree upon one single term to describe our profession. In practice, there is essentially no difference between TESOL, TEFL, or TESL. All of these terms are used to describe the teaching of English to non-native speakers of the English language. However, Anaheim University has chosen to adopt the term TESOL, as it is currently the most widely recognized term used in the field of English Language Teaching.

Residential Sessions at Anaheim University TESOL Retreat

• Attendance at 2 four-day intensive residential sessions are required during the MA in TESOL program
• Study face-to-face with AU's renowned TESOL faculty and students from around the world
• Explore "TESOL in Practice" and "Theoretical & Empirical Perspectives on TESOL" topics. Students attend "TESOL in Practice" during their first residential session and"Theoretical & Empirical Perspectives on TESOL" during their 2nd residential session.
• Residential sessions are held in California and other select locations.
• In the past, residential sessions have been held on the campuses of:
  • California State University Fullerton in Fullerton, California
  • Alliant International University in San Diego, and Irvine California
  • University of Hawaii in Honolulu, Hawaii
  • Sookmyung Women's University in Seoul, Korea
  • Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in Seoul, Korea
  • classroom facilities in Tokyo, Japan

• Click here to see photos of the October 2011 residential session in Seoul, Korea
• Click here to see photos of the September 2011 residential session in Bogota, Colombia
• Click here to see photos of the April 2011 residential session in Fullerton, California
• Click here to see photos of the October 2010 residential session in Seoul, Korea

When can I begin studying in the program?

MA & Graduate Diploma in TESOL courses begin every 10 weeks. TESOL Certificate & Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL) certificate courses begin the first Monday of every month.

How long will it take to complete a course?

Each MA and Graduate Diploma in TESOL course is nine weeks in duration. The TESOL Certificate and Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners programs are 15 weeks in duration.

How long will it take to complete the MA or Graduate Diploma in TESOL program?

For the MA in TESOL, students completing one course per term can complete the ten required courses and research portfolio in just over two years. Graduate Diploma in TESOL students can complete the program in approximately one year.

What is the maximum time allotted to complete the MA in TESOL degree program?

Students must complete their entire degree program within 3 years from date of matriculation. Students requiring additional time would need to be approved by the Dean and may incur additional fees. A student is considered to have completed the MA in TESOL degree program when the student has completed all courses with an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher and attended two x four-day residential sessions.

Anaheim University is an online and environmentally-friendly university developed to meet the practical needs of students in the 21st Century. The nature of online education allows for the tremendous saving of resources both financially and environmentally through the use of:

• e-books
• e-assignments
• electronic journals
• electronic libraries and information systems
• online classrooms
• online discussion forums
• globally accessible webcast seminars

The financial savings are passed on to students through low-cost tuition. Our students and professors study and work from where ever they are. This helps to preserve a tremendous amount of resources:

• Brick and mortar buildings and other structures do not need to be constructed, lit, cooled and heated in order to house online classrooms.
• Petroleum does not need to be used to fuel air travel for international students and ground transportation for local commuters.

A tremendous amount of energy and resources are conserved when operating educational programs online, as opposed to on a traditional brick and mortar campus, or in high-tech city structures.

Anaheim University's Kisho Kurokawa Green Institute is currently conducting studies into sustainable management of universities. At the end of this study, statistics will be provided on the estimated energy savings per student studying in an online environment as opposed to an on-campus environment.

The following are a few statistics provided by reports from traditional universities who are attempting to reduce their use of energy.

• In a recent energy management report from a division of an east-coast based state University's Utilities and Plant Engineering Organization, in the fiscal year 2006 alone, it cost the University $107,500,000 to heat, cool, light and power their more than 27.5 million square feet of building space.
• In the fiscal year of 2005,the electricity consumption alone for the campus of a 5,000 student research university on the east coast of the U.S. indirectly resulted in the emission of approximately 74 million pounds of CO2, just under 40 million kWh's of electricity was used on the main campus and the gym alone, and the University Central Heating Plant's natural gas usage was approximately 300,000 mmBTU

What language proficiency requirements are there for non-native English speakers?

MA or Graduate Diploma in TESOL
Non-native English speakers applying to the MA/Graduate Diploma in TESOL must have one of the following English proficiency test scores: a minimum TOEFL score of 550 (CBT 213, iBT 79), a minimum TOEIC score of 800, or a minimum IELTS score of 6.0. Please note: Students with a TOEFL score of 500-549, a TOEIC score of 625-799, or an IELTS score of 5.5 – 6.0 may be admitted on a provisional basis and must receive a grade of B or higher in their first two courses. Every student is expected to have a level of language ability that will permit understanding of the textbooks, course materials and examinations.

Certificate in TESOL or Teaching English to Young Learners
Non-native English speakers applying to the TESOL Certificate and Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners programs must have one of the following English proficiency test scores: 500 or higher on the TOEFL (173 CBT, iBT 61), 625 or higher on the TOEIC, 5.5 or higher on the IELTS, or Level 3 (60) on the BULATS.

Is a bachelor's degree required for admission?

Anaheim University requires all applicants for the MA and Graduate Diploma in TESOL to have a minimum of a recognized four-year undergraduate or bachelor's degree. A bachelor's degree is not required for admission to the Certificate in TESOL or TEYL programs.

Can students with an undergraduate degree from a foreign university, such as a Japanese university, enter the AU Master or Graduate Diploma in TESOL program?

Yes. Anaheim University accepts undergraduate or bachelor's degrees from any country as long as the degree is recognized by the government or education ministry of the country in which it was conferred.

What does it mean to be a matriculated student?

Matriculated students are those who have been officially enrolled in the degree program and are considered degree-seekers by the University, having completed at least two courses with a grade of B or better. Students who are simply attending a single course are not considered to be matriculated students.

How do I apply for the program?

You can apply online at www.anaheim.edu by clicking 'Apply Today' in the right menu section, or you may contact the University by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to request an application and either a paper application or a digital application, whichever you prefer, will be sent to you. In the case of a digital application, you will need to print it out, sign it and submit it by mail. Please submit your application to: Anaheim University Office of Admissions Rm. 110, 1240 South State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806, USA

Can students who have taken courses at other universities transfer their credit into the AU MA or Graduate Diploma in TESOL program? 

Yes. In accordance with California Education Code regulations, graduate students may transfer a maximum of six credits from another university into a Master's degree program.

Is the GMAT or GRE required for admission?

No. Neither the GMAT nor the GRE are required for admission into Anaheim University's programs.

Does AU award credit for professional or life experience?

No. Anaheim University does not award credit for professional or life experience.

Is an entrance examination required?

No. Other than the English proficiency requirements, AU does not require applicants to take an admission or entrance examination.

Do students have to enroll in the entire degree program, or can they simply enroll in one course to see how they like it?

Students may enroll in only one course, or as many courses as they wish. There is no obligation to complete the entire degree program once you have started.

Do students need to have computer access prior to enrolling?

Yes. Every student must have access to the Internet and a computer with word processing software in order to study in Anaheim University's programs. This does not mean that the student must own a computer. In some cases, students participate in AU courses and use rental computers through local Internet cafes, etc.

How soon after applying can students begin their studies?

A student's application must be reviewed by the Office of Admissions and approved by the Dean. The approval process can usually be completed within one week after receipt of all required application documents. Following approval and acceptance into the University, a new student can begin their studies at the beginning of the next term as long as space is available. New terms begin every ten weeks for the MA and Graduate Diploma in TESOL programs and on the first Monday of every month for the TESOL/TEYL certificate programs. It is recommended that you submit your application at least two weeks prior to the commencement of the term, so that there is sufficient time for course materials and other related information to be sent to you.

Read the information below regarding Anaheim University's admissions policies on undergraduate degree and TOEFL/TOEIC score requirements, documentation for submission, Internet access, transfer credit and prior experiential credit.

Undergraduate Degree

Graduate students are required to hold an earned undergraduate degree accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education and/or CHEA, or by the government of the country in which the degree was awarded. This requirement is standard for all degrees offered.

TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS Scores

For Graduate Level Programs

Non-native English speakers seeking admission to a graduate level degree, diploma or certificate program are required to have one of the following English proficiency scores:

• a minimum TOEFL score of 550 (CBT 213, iBT 79)
• a minimum TOEIC score of 800, or
• a minimum IELTS score of 6.0.

Please note: Students with one of the following English proficiency scores may be admitted on a provisional basis and must receive a grade of B or higher in their first two courses:

• a minimum TOEFL score of 500-549
• a minimum TOEIC score of 625-799, or
• a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 – 6.0

For the TESOL Certificate or Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners

Non-native English speakers seeking admissions to the TESOL Certificate and Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners programs are required to have one of the following English proficiency scores:

• 500 or higher on the TOEFL (173 CBT, iBT 61)
• 625 or higher on the TOEIC
• 5.5 or higher on the IELTS, or
• Level 3 (60) on the BULATS.

Every student is expected to have a level of language ability that will permit understanding of the textbooks, course materials and examinations.

Required documents for the International MBA, Sustainable Management MBA, Sustainable Management Diploma & Sustainable Management Certificate

• application form
• application fee
• one recent color photograph
• official transcripts (Note: If the university does not routinely issue transcripts in English, original language records must be submitted with official English translations. We will accept translations issued by the university or a professional translating service. Translations must be exact and complete versions of the original records.)
• Non-native English speakers are required to submit an official document of their TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score.

Once your application materials have been approved, you will need to submit an Enrollment Agreement and tuition payment for your first course to complete the enrollment process.

Required documents for the Master of Arts & Graduate Diploma in TESOL

• application form
• application fee
• one recent color photograph
• official transcripts, licenses or certificates (Note: If the university does not routinely issue transcripts in English, original language records must be submitted with official English translations. We will accept translations issued by the university or a professional translating service. Translations must be exact and complete versions of the original records.)
• resume
• a 300-400 word statement setting out why you have selected the Anaheim University program, what you hope to get out of it, and how it will help you in your present and future career
• Non-native English speakers are required to submit an official document of their TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score.

Once your application materials have been approved, you will need to submit an Enrollment Agreement and tuition payment for your first course to complete the enrollment process.

Required documents for the TESOL Certificate & Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners

• application form
• application fee
• one recent color photograph
• Non-native English speakers are required to submit an official document of their TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score.

Once your application materials have been approved, you will need to submit an Enrollment Agreement and tuition payment to complete the enrollment process.

Internet Access

All students are required to have access to a computer equipped with Internet access capabilities.

Entrance Examination

There is no entrance examination required for admission to Anaheim University.

Transfer Credits

Anaheim University will accept up to six graduate semester units or the equivalent in other units awarded by another institution toward a Master's degree at Anaheim University. The entering student will be required to clearly state the equivalency of a transfer course and justify its acceptance through petition. No course will be considered for transfer with a grade lower than B, or its equivalent. Petitions are directed to the specific Dean for the affected program. There is a fee of $125 per unit of credit transferred. All petitions for transfer credit must be submitted as part of the student’s initial application to the University. Credits awarded as part of another degree will not be accepted for transfer.

Prior Experiential Credit

Anaheim University will not extend experiential credit to any student.

Can the TESOL programs be completed entirely by home study?

There are 2 x 4-day residential sessions required for the MA in TESOL program. The Graduate Diploma in TESOL, TESOL Certificate & Teaching English to Young Learners (TEYL) programs are 100% online with no residential requirements.

Where are the MA TESOL on-campus residential sessions held?

Residential sessions are held in California and other select locations. In the past, residential sessions have been held at California State University Fullerton (Fullerton, California); Alliant International University (San Diego, California); University of Hawaii (Honolulu, Hawaii); Sookmyung Women's University (Seoul, Korea), Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (Seoul, Korea); Universidad de la Sabana (Bogota, Colombia), and in classroom facilities in Tokyo, Japan.

What is the schedule for the MA TESOL residential sessions?

Click here to see the MA TESOL Course Schedule. Please note that these dates are tentative and subject to change.

How much time do students spend on campus in MA TESOL residential sessions?

The average residential session begins on a Thursday and ends on the following Sunday, or runs from a Saturday to the following Tuesday. Students normally spend approximately 27 hours in the classroom per session.

What do I do if I am unable to attend a scheduled MA TESOL residential session?

If a student is unable to attend a scheduled residential session, s/he may attend a different residential session in the future. In such an event, this may cause a delay in the student's degree completion process.

Does the university provide dormitories at MA TESOL residential sessions?

Currently, the University does not provide dormitory rooms for students attending residential sessions. However, a number of hotels located in close proximity to the residential sessions offer discounts to Anaheim University students attending the residential sessions. This information is provided to students prior to the sessions.

When I attend a residential session for the MA TESOL, which residential session do I attend first?

The residential sessions are in two strands. A student attending a residential session for the first time should attend the first strand “TESOL in Practice”, which features workshops and seminars on methodology, curriculum design, materials, assessment, professional development, and classroom observation.

Can I take the two required residential sessions at the same time?

No. Classes for the two residential sessions are held at the same time in different classrooms, making it impossible to attend both during one residential session.

What happens at the MA TESOL residential sessions?

The residential consists of two strands. The first of these, intended for students undertaking their first residential, consists of workshops and seminars on methodology, curriculum design, materials, assessment, professional development, and classroom observation. The second strand, intended for students undertaking their second residential, is oriented towards theoretical / research issues in TESOL / Applied Linguistics. The last session of each day is a joint one involving all students and faculty. These sessions take a variety of formats, from debates on key issues in the field, to mini-presentations and simulations.

Is there a practicum? Will I have to do student teaching?

We generally only accept experienced teachers onto the masters program, as we believe that a masters degree is a post, not pre-experience degree. There is no provision for a practicum, because the assumption is that those doing the degree will be teaching at the same time as they do the degree. During the course they are encouraged, and indeed expected, to apply the knowledge and skills they are acquiring in studying for the degree to their daily teaching lives. There is no practicum in the degree for two reasons. Firstly, it is neither necessary nor feasible for practicing teachers, who are working full-time, to take time out for practicum placement. Secondly, the cost of arranging and paying for supervision is very high and would significantly increase the cost of the degree. It is clear from the course description that there is no practicum. It is therefore assumed that people without experience who apply for and are accepted onto the course are aware of this will arrange for practical experience, both observing experienced teachers in action and being observed doing some teaching themselves. It is quite rare for individuals without experience to apply for and be accepted onto the course. We do not have teaching experience as an entry requirement, as it then becomes a Catch 22 for individuals who want to break into the field. The classroom management and observation course requires some contact with classroom instruction. Occasionally we have experienced teachers doing the course who are not currently teaching and who, for various reasons (e.g. young children at home) have difficulty getting access to classrooms. In this case, we negotiate alternative options for them. There is no doubt that individuals with no experience whatever are at a disadvantage. However, as indicated above, there are ways of compensating for this, and we do our best to help them deal with this disadvantage.

Do students have regular contact with their professors?

Yes. Students in all TESOL programs are in regular contact with their professors in the Online Discussion Forum. In addition, students in the MA and Diploma in TESOL programs communicate with their professors in an online face-to-face setting through the real-time online webcam classes.

May I contact my professor by e-mail?

Yes. The professor's e-mail address is typically listed in the online course guide.

Do I have regular contact with other students in my course?

Yes. Through the University's Online Discussion Forum, students communicate regularly with all other students enrolled in the same course. Each week, a student is nominated as "Student Host." It is the Student Host's responsibility to encourage students to participate and to keep discussions going by presenting topics for discussion. This Student Host system in conjunction with the real-time online webcam classes has proven to be so effective, it is said that AU students have more contact with their professors and fellow students than most students do in on-campus programs! To further enhance this communication, AU students have the option of having their e-mail address connected to the Forum discussions. This allows students to follow conversations from students and professors from around the world 24 hours a day no matter where they are.

Is there any support for students who do not have access to major libraries?

Yes. The AU online library offers students 24-hour access to a vast collection of publications and other printed resources available in digital format for their research. The Academia Library was developed by a team of professionals who have evaluated thousands of Internet resources to identify and annotate only those deemed useful to students doing academic or professional research on the Web. The Academia Library offers academically appropriate, Internet-based resources. Each resource is updated regularly to ensure quality, accuracy, and currency.

How can I purchase textbooks?

AU students may order textbooks through the Anaheim University Online Bookstore. The Online Bookstore provides a competitive and reliable textbook service that ensures receipt of the correct textbook in a timely manner. Purchases will be subject to the refund policy of the bookstore.

Is there an alumni association?

Yes. AU's Alumni Association for lifelong learning is more than just a membership. As graduates of AU, students are automatically enrolled in a learning process that will extend beyond their degree. The University fully subscribes to the principle that "learning never ends." One of the great advantages of the online university is that students can maintain contact with the University, the faculty and fellow classmates throughout their lifetime. The Alumni Association will send students up-to-date information on new developments, suggested readings, cutting-edge information, occupational trends, and professional career opportunities.

How can I learn about upcoming events in my field of study?

Students wishing to read or post announcements about upcoming events, seminars, fairs, conventions, etc. or other subjects of academic interest to students in their major or to all AU students may do so through the AU Online Discussion Forum.

Is it possible to publish my research through Anaheim University?

Yes. The Anaheim University Press is an online innovation that provides opportunities for faculty and students to individually or collectively publish articles and research reports that will be made available for global interest. In addition to these online services, graduate theses and projects may be published, furthering the work of research in the fields of study represented by the University's programs. The AU Press will also give consideration to the publication of printed materials which conforms to the University mission.

What is the Research Portfolio, and what guidance, if any, do I get preparing it?

A number of courses in the MA TESOL provide students with an opportunity to conduct a small scale research project and write a report. For the EDU 600 Research Portfolio course, students will be required to submit reports of TWO such studies. Students will need to revise the reports in the light of the feedback that they received on their original reports. As with all of our courses, a professor is assigned to EDU 600 to instruct students and offer academic guidance and support.

Is there a graduation ceremony

Yes. The University holds graduation ceremonies from time to time and although it is not mandatory all students are welcome to take part.

Are fees for international students and California residents different?

No. Anaheim University's tuition fees are the same no matter where the student resides. 

How are tuition payments handled?

All payments must be made in US dollars. Students may pay by credit card (American Express, MasterCard, Visa or Discover), bank transfer, check or money order made payable to Anaheim University. To pay by credit card, download a credit card authorization form here, complete it, and e-mail or fax it to the University. For bank wire transfer account information, please contact Anaheim University's Admissions Office. Payments are processed through the University's Admissions Offices in California. Upon acceptance, MA & Graduate Diploma in TESOL students must pay the registration fee, records fee and tuition fee for the first course. The Tuition and Records Fee for each course is paid no later than 2 weeks prior to course commencement. Prior to graduation, the $300 graduation fee must be paid. Where applicable, MA TESOL students pay their residential session fees along with the tuition fee and records fee 2 weeks prior to course commencement. TESOL Certificate and Teaching English to Young Learners Certificate students pay the registration and tuition fees upon acceptance.

Are there any fees if I am unable to finish the MA in TESOL program within 125 weeks?

If a student does not complete the degree program within the 125-week period, the student is required to pay a records fee each term to maintain the degree-seeking status.

Are there any fees if I am unable to finish the TESOL Cert. program within 15 weeks?

Students are expected to complete the TESOL / TEYL Certificates within the 15-week term. Students requiring a 15-week extension will be charged an additional $200 extension fee. Note: Extension fees may apply to students accepted into the University prior to April 2007. Please see your enrollment agreement.

Do I have to own my own computer?

No. You do not need to own your own computer. However, all students must have regular access to a computer connected to the Internet.

Do I have to purchase equipment or special software?

Students do not need special hardware or software for most of Anaheim University's online learning system.  The following are webcam class system requirements:

PC Users

• Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server
• Dual core 2.4GHz CPU or faster with at least 2 GB of RAM
• Internet Explorer® 7.0 or newer, Mozilla® Firefox® 3.0 or newer, or Google Chrome 5.0 or newer (JavaScript and Java enabled)
• Internet connection with cable modem, DSL or better recommended

• Mac OS® X v10.5 Leopard® or newer
• Safari® 3.0 or newer, Firefox 3.0 or newer or Google Chrome 5.0 or newer (JavaScript and Java enabled)
• Internet connection with cable modem, DSL or better recommended
• Intel processor with 512 MB of RAM or better is required for video.
• Macs with PowerPC G4/G5 processor can attend live classes, but are unable to use or view webcams.

Recommended Hardware

The online webcam software works with most standard webcams. The following webcams come highly recommended from testing

• Logitech® HD Pro Webcam C910
• Logitech Webcam Pro 9000
• Logitech HD Webcam C510
• Logitech HD Webcam C310
• Students who wish to speak by live webcam or microphone, will be required to use a microphone/earphone headset. No headset is required to text chat. 

Are textbooks included in the tuition?

No. Textbooks are not included in the tuition. Each course usually requires either one or two textbooks. It is suggested that you budget approximately $1,200 for textbooks for the entire program. AU students have the opportunity of ordering their textbooks through the Anaheim University Online Bookstore, which also sells used textbooks at a discounted rate. Purchases will be subject to the refund policy of eCampus.com, which runs the bookstore.

Can I pay by credit card?

Yes. The University currently accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover credit card. Download a credit card authorization form here.

Can I make credit card installment payments?

Yes. Credit card companies have various installment payment plans in order to accommodate students, and these plans vary based on your credit card limit. However, students in the past have made up to 36 payments by credit card installment payment plans.

How do I withdraw from my program if I am unable to continue my studies?

If you are unable to continue your studies, you should submit a cancellation request in any manner to the University. Then, a Notice of Withdrawal Form must be completed, signed and submitted to the University. The Notice of Withdrawal Form can be obtained from the Downloadable Forms section of this website, by visiting the University's Admissions office in Anaheim, CA, or by contacting Student Services at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . To receive a refund for the unused portion of tuition, you are encouraged to send a refund request by registered mail to the University's main office in Anaheim, CA.

1. Is Anaheim University accredited?

Yes, Anaheim University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). The DETC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally-recognized accrediting agency. Anaheim University and its programs have been examined and found to meet the educational and business ethics standards set by the DETC Accrediting Commission. The Accrediting Commission of the DETC is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

2. Under what authority are the University's degrees granted?

As well as being accredited, Anaheim University also operates under the full approval of the State of California in accordance with the requirements set forth by the Bureau for Private Post-Secondary Education. Original temporary approval was granted in 1997 by the Council for Private Post-Secondary and Vocational Education under Section 94310 of the California State Education Code. The temporary approval was changed to full approval in April 2007. Approval or approval to operate means that the Council has determined and certified that the institution meets minimum standards established by the Council for integrity, financial stability and educational quality, including the offering of bona fide instruction by qualified faculty and the appropriate assessment of students' achievements prior to, during, and at the end of its program. AU is authorized to grant graduate degrees at the master level under the degree granting authority of the Bureau for Private Post-Secondary Education.

3. Are the University's degree programs designed to meet specific credential requirements?

The University's degree programs are not designed to meet any local, state or national licensing or credentialing laws, nor to meet any requirements established by any private, independent, professional or governmental associations. Prospective students are instructed to check with their respective school districts, state, professional associations and government agencies when licensing and/or credentials are the eventual objective of the prospective student.

4. Are credits from Anaheim University accepted by other universities?

Anaheim University is an accredited university and generally qualifications from accredited universities are widely recognized; however, it is entirely up to the discretion of the college, university or institution to which a student is seeking admission, to decide on the acceptance of the said student into a given degree program. It is recommended that if transfer of credit or degree is the eventual goal of the prospective student, the student should contact all institutions to which s/he is potentially interested in seeking enrollment.