English proficiency tests like the TOEFL make sure international students have the vocabulary and grammar to get by in college classrooms.

But to really get the most out of your experience as a US college student, you will need more than just the minimum English language skills.

How to Improve Your English Skills

Many US colleges and universities have programs specifically for international students who want to improve their English fluency.

One organization affiliated with Penn State University gets hundreds of requests every semester from international students wanting to be paired with a “conversation partner” who is a native speaker of English, according to an article in the Daily Collegian, Penn State’s student newspaper.

The organization, called Global Connections, matches international students with other students or members of the community.

International students and their partners meet in person and talk on the telephone. These conversations give international students knowledge of English that they can’t always learn in the classroom.

The sessions also benefit the English-speaking partner, who learns about a different culture and country.

Conversation partners are common at US colleges and universities, but your school probably also offers other opportunities to help international students improve their English. Join an international club or speak to the international student services office to find out what is available.

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