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Center for American Language and Culture (TCALC)

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American Culture at Temple

Improve Your English & Experience American Culture!

Spend your mornings improving your English while learning about U.S. culture and history through engaging classroom activities. In the afternoons, explore Philadelphia and the surrounding region through exciting cultural excursions and guided trips.

By the end of the program, you will:

  • Improve your English communication skills
  • Gain first-hand experience with American culture and history
  • Build friendships with students from around the world
  • Experience life in Philadelphia, one of the world's top cities to visit (Lonely Planet, 2024)

Program Highlights

🌆 Discover Philadelphia

Explore America's first World Heritage City, known for its rich history, diverse neighborhoods, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming communities.

🏛️ Visit Historic Landmarks

Step into the birthplace of the United States as you visit iconic sites, including:

  • Independence Hall
  • The Liberty Bell
  • Historic Old City Philadelphia
🎨 Experience World-Class Art

Discover some of Philadelphia's most famous cultural attractions:

  • Philadelphia Museum of Art
  • The legendary Rocky Steps
  • The iconic LOVE Sculpture
🗽 Take an Exciting Day Trip to New York City

Experience one of the world's most famous cities, with opportunities to explore landmarks, neighborhoods, and shopping.

🏛️ Visit the U.S. Capital - Washington, D.C.

Explore the nation's capital while visiting renowned monuments, museums, memorials, and historic government buildings.

🍽️ Taste Philadelphia's Incredible Food Scene

Taste the flavors of one of America's top culinary destinations, from the famous Philly cheesesteak to a wide variety of international cuisine.

🎭 Experience American Culture

Participate in cultural activities, local events, and regional excursions while connecting with classmates from around the world.

📚 Improve Your English

Strengthen your English communication skills through interactive classroom instruction, real-world experiences, and daily conversations with fellow participants and local communities.

ACT Program Details

Explore the city and beyond in this action-packed culture program where you will improve your English language skills and engagement with American culture!

    ACT COURSES

    Language and Culture Enrichment

    Students will improve their understanding of American culture by

    • exploring the origins of American culture - why do we do what we do? 

    • learning about our history and culture through field trips to historical and cultural sites 

    • practicing English with real Americans during field trips

    • creating your own "Travel Guide" to share your insights into Philadelphia and our culture with your friends and family

    Integrated Listening and Speaking

    Students will improve their core English skills by

    • taking English classes with students from around the world
    • watching videos and reading literature related to the arts and freedom of expression as experienced in the United States
    • practicing your English speaking daily through classroom activities
    Skilled Based Enrichment

    Focus on a skill or topic that interests you. Choose from a variety of classes, from English for STEM to Stand Up & Speak to American Idioms. Classes are offered for all levels, from beginning to advanced. Different classes are offered each session.

    ACT Dates & Prices

    Join us in the ACT Program for 2 or 3 weeks in Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall!

    Date
    Join us in the ACT Program for 2 or 3 weeks in Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall!
     Winter 2027Spring 2027Summer 2027Fall 2027
    3 Week OptionJanuary 09 - January 30March 06 - March 27 July 10 - July 31August 21 - September 11
    2 Week OptionJanuary 09 - January 23March 06 - March 20July 10 - July 24August 21 - September 4

     

    Application Deadline
     Winter 2027Spring 2027Summer 2027Fall 2027
    Early Brid November 1, 2026January 1, 2027May 15, 2027June 15, 2027
    RegularDecember 1, 2026January 15, 2027June 1, 2027July 1, 2027
    Prices
     Apply & pay before the Early Bird Deadline for Special Discounts! 
    2026 Program CostRegular PriceEarly Bird Price
    3 Week Program$4,490.00  $4,266.00 
    2 Week Program$2,993.00  $2,843.35
    Note: 2027 Cohort prices are subject to change.

    Housing, Meals and Airport Pick-Up & Drop-Off

    Housing and Transportation
    Living accommodations are provided in the program cost.

    In 2026, ACT students will reside in a Temple University-affiliated hotel in downtown Philadelphia. Students will:

    • Live in the heart of the city - click here to learn more about hotel accommodations!
    • Commute to campus for classes each morning and explore Philadelphia with your SEPTA travel pass
    • Enjoy a shared room (same gender)
    • Receive housekeeping services (by request)
    • Access to free Wi-Fi 
    • Access to gym and recreational facilities 24/7
    • Outdoor swimming pool is available during summer and fall sessions
    • Note: Laundry machines and services are available for an additional cost
    Meals

    Meals are not included in the program fee. Students may choose to purchase a meal plan for campus dining at an additional fee. Meal prices may vary each program session. Please inquire with the Special Programs team to learn more about meals.

    *A breakfast ticket may be provided when students reside at our partner hotel in Center City.
    Airport Shuttle Services

    Airport pick-up and drop-off are provided between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. at the first and last day of the program between Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to accommodations. Arrivals and departures outside of scheduled dates and times may be able to be accommodated for an additional fee. If we cannot make accommodations, we will provide detailed transportation and hotel information.

    Eligibility & Requirements

    • Must have completed high school and be at least 18 years old 

    • Must meet one of the following visa conditions: 

      • You currently have, or are eligible to obtain, a B visa for visitor travel to the U.S.A., or 

      • You are from an ESTA visa waiver country (and do not require a visa to visit the U.S.) 

    Contact Us

    Contact us using the form or send us a message in your language on WhatsApp: +1 267 804 5484 (TempleTCALC)