COMMON QUESTIONS
Where is San Marcos?
San Marcos is a safe, suburban town located in North San Diego County, about 37 miles (60
km) north of downtown San Diego and 100 miles (160 km) south of downtown
Los Angeles. For more information, visit the
LOCATION page on this website.
When is the application deadline?
There is no application deadline. We recommend that you apply at least two months before the semester begins. You should allow enough time for your application to be processed and for you to schedule your F-1 visa interview.
Can I apply for conditional admission?
Yes. Students may apply to the ALCI and for conditional admission to California State University San Marcos. For more information, visit the CONDITIONAL ADMISSION page on this website.
How much money will I need to be an IAP or Semester Abroad Student?
The total amount of tuition, fees and other costs depends on the amount of time you will spend at the ALCI. Visit our IAP Program page for more information.
What is TOEFL equivalency?
TOEFL Equivalency means that for graduate or undergraduate admission to California State University San Marcos, you need not take the TOEFL if you meet certain requirements. For a full explanation of those requirements, see the TOEFL WAIVER page on this website.
Do I need to take the TOEFL before I apply to ALCI?
No. The TOEFL test is not required for enrollment in the ALCI, but you must have at least basic English skills.
Can I take a university course while enrolled in the ALCI?
Yes. If you are in the advanced levels of the Intensive Academic Preparation Program, you may take university classes with American students for transferable credit. For more information, see the UNIVERSITY FOR CREDIT section of this website.
What class level will I be in at the ALCI?
You will take a placement test on the first day of the semester to determine your class level. You will also take a post-test at the end of each semester (post-test results decide class levels for continuing students).
Can I live in campus housing (University Village Apartments)?
Yes. ALCI students may apply to live in University Village Apartments (UVA). To live in UVA, you must plan to attend at least one full semester at the ALCI. Apply early because UVA fills up quickly. For more information, see the CAMPUS HOUSING page of this website.