FAQs
1 - How many people are there in each class?
The average class size is 12-14 for the English Program.
2 - What do we do in each class?
On your first day you will sit a placement test that assesses your English level. You will then be put in a class (with a diverse nationality mix) of students who have the same English ability as yourself. From this starting point we build upon the level of English you have. We will take your 'passive' knowledge of English (the English you have learned in the past, but have difficulty using) and make it 'active' – you will quickly and effectively access your English, cutting down on your 'thinking time' and improving your fluency.
Our lessons are topic based, so you will learn the language that is used in particular situations. You will learn the essential grammar and vocabulary you need to know in the context they are used, rather than from studying grammar in itself. Textbooks are used to guide you, but will not be the focus of your lessons. In addition, we will pay particular attention to building your confidence with relaxed and stimulating lessons.
We are committed to your specific needs and we will go that extra mile to help you reach your English speaking goal.
3 - Do you offer any special classes for the TOEFL test?
Yes. since the new TOEFL test now requires each examinee to write and essay, our TOEFL class will be offered in two sections which may be taken together for four hours a day, or seperately for two hours a day. One section will help students prepare for the listening comprehension, reading and structure parts of the test, and the other section will help students prepare for the written part of the test. Contact the school for further information.
4 - When do I register for a class?
We ask students to test and register at least 10 days before a class begins, any Monday to Friday from 8:45am to 3pm. The placement process consists of two parts: a written grammar test and a short interview.
5 - What kinds of students attend Cambridge?
Students preparing to study at American universities, business men and women, visitors, diplomats - all study at our school. More than 50 different nationalities are represented at any given time and currently our largest groups are Japanese, Brazilian, Korean and Turkish. the average age of our students is about 26.
6 - What about the teachers?
All of our teachers have extensive backgrounds in the teaching of ESL and all are certified by the New York State Department of Education.
7 - If I take your class, how much will my English improve?
How much you improve depends on how long you stay enrolled in the program, and how often you practice your English outside the classroom. If you complete the program, you will have an excellent level of English, and you should be able to attain a high score on the TOEFL test. If you choose to attend for only 4 weeks, you will see some improvement in your English. You will also have a greater understanding of English grammar, and improved listening and speaking skills.
8 - Where exactly are you located?
Cambridge Schools has one location at 211 East 43rd Steet in Manhattan. It is between 2nd and 3rd Avenues, one block from Grand Central Station and two blocks from the United Nations.
9 - How can I get to your school?
By subway, you can take the # 4,5,6,7 or S trains to 42nd Street Station. By bus, you can take most Eastside or Cross-town buses.
10 - Why should I choose Cambridge, and not another school?
Cambridge Schools have specialized in the teaching of English as a Second Language since 1953. We feel we offer a very effective study program within a warm, informal yet disciplined atmosphere that maximizes a student's progress. 75% of new students come to Cambridge because of the recommendation of former students.
11 - What is your Refund/Cancellation policy?
The registration fee is non-refundable.
Cancellation prior to arrival
Students cancelling 14 days or fewer, prior to the course or accommodation start date (whichever comes first) will be charged a cancellation fee of USD350.
Refunds after arrival
Written notification of termination must be submitted in order to provide refunds. Refunds are calculated from the last date of attendance.
For courses of 4 weeks or fewer: Lessons cannot be cancelled. Tuition fees are not refundable.
For courses of 5 weeks & over: Students who terminate their course in the first 4 weeks will be refunded all tuition except 4 weeks at the non-discounted rate found in the Cambridge Schools Pricelist
For courses of 5 weeks & over: Students who terminate their course after the 4th week, but before the mid-point of their course will be charged at a prorated amount of tuition at the non-discounted rate found in the Cambridge Schools Pricelist.
For courses of 5 weeks & over: Students who terminate their course after the mid-point of their course will not be provided with a refund.