Many international students who want to study in America go straight to Boston, with dreams of Harvard and MIT. Boston can be a great city to study English in, but it’s a small, often expensive city. If you are thinking about Boston, we really recommend you consider studying English in Philadelphia.
History
Philadelphia is a city full of history. The city was founded by William Penn (who the state of Penn-sylvania is named after) in 1682, between the Delaware River and the Schuylkill River. The name comes from the Greek words for love (philos) an brother (adelphos), and its nickname is The City of Brotherly Love.
Philadelphia was also home to Benjamin Franklin, and played an important role in the American Revolution and the founding of the country. Philadelphia was the first capital of the United States. All around the city are old brick buildings from colonial times, and you can casually walk past such famous sites as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
Philadelphia’s Beautiful City Hall
Culture
Philadelphia is home to loads of culture. This includes fine art museums, like the incredible Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Rodin Museum, and the Barnes Foundation. It also includes popular culture. Iconic movies like Rocky, Creed, and the National Treasure series take place in Philly. Philly has an incredible live music culture, as well. Jay Z’s Made in America festival is held here each year.
Food
Without a doubt, the most famous food in Philly is the Philly cheesesteak. They’re great, but there are so many other great foods to try in this city! Roast pork sandwiches with provolone cheese and broccoli rabe are another classic. If you’re looking for a snack, uniquely shaped soft pretzels are another local secret. And be sure to stop into a Wawa for a truly Philly experience!
Price
One of the biggest points in favor of Philadelphia is its price. Compared to nearby New York and Boston, Philly is much cheaper. The cost of living is over 50% lower than it is in Manhattan and over 25% lower than it is in Boston. That makes a big difference!
A City of Immigrants
Philadelphia is a diverse city that welcomes immigrants: 15% of the city’s residents are immigrants and that will only grow, as 25% of the city’s children are immigrants. Walking the streets of Philadelphia, you’ll hear people speaking not just English, but Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Vietnamese, and countless other languages.
Where to study English in Philadelphia
Intensive English Language Programs in Philadelphia
One of the fastest ways to develop your English is in an intensive program, which will generally mean studying at least 20 hours per week. Philadelphia is home to a number of excellent accredited university-based Intensive English Programs:
Temple University - Center for American Language and Culture (TCALC)
University of Pennsylvania - English Language Programs (Penn ELP)
Community College of Philadelphia - Intensive English Language Program (IELP)
St. Joseph’s University - English Language Center Philadelphia
There are also private language schools like the Philadelphia School of Languages and ABA Language Institute.
Community English Classes in Philadelphia
If you don’t need an intensive program, which can be very expensive, free or low-cost English classes from community-based organizations are a great option.