Learn English in San Diego with EC San Diego English School

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Study English in San Diego and experience the California lifestyle

Learn English in San Diego, one of America’s friendliest, most laid-back coastal cities and home to Southern California’s best beaches. With perfect weather and a health-conscious outdoor culture, San Diego is a student paradise. Surf the waves between classes. Visit the famous San Diego Zoo. Or go sea kayaking. Our activities programme will help you immerse yourself in all the city has to offer while you learn English in multinational classrooms.

Our San Diego language school offers English courses to suit every goal and skill level, exceptional teachers, and a supportive community that is ready to help you make the most of your time studying English in California.

San Diego Gallery

What you can expect at our San Diego English School

*Images are for representation purpose only. Actual furnishings may differ from those shown. Amenities and services are subject to change.

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Find your perfect English course in San Diego

Explore our English language programmes

Most Popular

1-52 weeks of study

20, 24, 26, or 30 lessons per week

All levels: from beginner to advanced

General English

General and intensive English courses at EC focus on the core skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing to improve confidence and increase fluency.

20 lessons per week

Minimum 1 week

Prices start at $420

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English for Work

Our English for Work course builds confidence in professional communication. Learn to write emails, join meetings, give presentations, and prepare for interviews. Perfect for career success!

30 lessons per week

Minimum 1 week

Prices start at $475

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Academic Year

Our Academic Year course (24+ weeks) lets you fully immerse yourself in English while living abroad. Gain fluency, experience local culture, and build lifelong skills!

30 lessons per week

Minimum 24 weeks

Prices start at $9,480

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English in the City

English in the City (summer only) lets you explore a city while improving your English. Join local tours, interact with native speakers, and learn through real experiences!

30 lessons per week

Minimum 1 week

Prices start at $475

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Student accommodation in San Diego

Comfortable and convenient living spaces for every student’s needs

Costa Verde Shared Apartments San Diego

From $435 p/w

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Homestay San Diego

From $350 p/w

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Your English language programme includes

Online Placement Test

Take your placement test so we can put you in the correct class for your English level, access our library of self-study activities, or attend free online classes before you even arrive.

Quality English Lessons

Study in multinational classes from Monday to Friday with qualified English teachers in courses guaranteed to improve your English skills.

MyEC

Your all-in-one study app for tests, assessments, and learning resources. Get access as soon as you book!

Full Social Calendar

Join us for a full programme of paid and free social activities, excursions and language workshops to make the most of your time learning English in San Diego!

All GE 30, 24+ week courses include the option of joining Cambridge Exam course (subject to availability)

Orange Carpet Experience

Welcome Activity

English language activities and workshops

Social and cultural programme

Contact us

EC San Diego School Facilities

Interactive TVs

Self-study area

Student lounge

Computer lab

Internet access

San Diego social activities and workshops

Join our social and cultural activity programmes, and take part in free language workshops. Here is a sample of what is on offer. Please note, all activities are subject to change without notice and may be offered seasonally. In addition, prices are approximate.

All
Orange Carpet Experience
Sightseeing & Culture

Welcome tour

Kick off your EC adventure with a warm and welcoming evening designed to help you settle in and make new friends. Our leader will be on hand to facilitate introductions and provide an overview of the exciting experiences awaiting you.

Orientation

With our dedicated teaching staff, accommodation services and student services teams, we offer the perfect mix of expertise to give you all the help and support you need.

Graduation Ceremony

On your last day at EC, we celebrate your achievement with a graduation ceremony and you’ll get a course certificate that proves your English level!

Little Italy

Escape to the heart of San Diego’s vibrant Little Italy! This charming neighbourhood is a culinary paradise, with a delightful blend of traditional Italian fare and modern culinary creations.

Gaslamp Quarter

Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter! This historic district, with its charming Victorian architecture and bustling streets, transforms into a bustling nightlife hub after dark.

USS Midway Museum

Prepare to be awe-inspired as you step aboard the USS Midway, a legendary aircraft carrier turned museum, right here in San Diego. Get ready to experience the thrill of naval history firsthand!

Nature & Parks

Escape to San Diego, where lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife await. Embark on an unforgettable journey through the wonders of nature at the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld Park, and Safari Park.

Water Sports in San Diego

Calling all water lovers! San Diego is a haven for adventure and excitement, with stunning beaches, vibrant waters, and a wide range of water sports to explore.

Harbour Boat Cruises

Get ready to experience the magic of San Diego Bay like never before. Join an unforgettable harbour boat cruise where you might just catch a glimpse of majestic whales while exploring the bay!

La Jolla

La Jolla is a beautiful place in San Diego. It has a lot of fancy stores, restaurants, and art galleries. You can see seals playing in the water, walk on pretty beaches, and enjoy the views from the cliffs.

Nationality mix

20%

Brazilian

15%

Saudi Arabian

14%

Japanese

11%

Swiss

6%

Korean

6%

Taiwanese

5%

Italian

23%

Other (37)

Age mix

16-17

11%

18-20

21%

21-25

26%

26-30

15%

31-40

16%

41-50

8%

51+

3%

Centre Information

Launched: 2008

Centre capacity: 120

Classrooms: 8

Minimum age: 16

Students per class: Average 11 (Max. 15)

Wheelchair accessible

Phone number: +1 (858) 449-3758

Accreditation

Opening Hours

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Office hours

08:30 – 16:30

Closed

08:30 – 16:00

Map

EC San Diego

1225 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037

Mailing Address: EC San Diego, 7979 Ivanhoe Avenue #225
La Jolla, CA 92037

See Inside

Meet our experienced team

Heather Giammona

Centre Director

San Diego is a fantastic place to learn English—I’m here to make your stay productive and memorable.

Nick Di Zinno

Director of Studies

My focus is on delivering quality education and supporting you every step of the way.

San Diego Arrival and Travel Information

Find your Pre-arrival Guide and explore fun things to do after class. Everything you need to prepare and make the most of your stay in San Diego.

Pre-Arrival to First Day

Arrival details, what to bring and what to expect on your first day.

Travel Activities

Things to do, local highlights and experiences you won’t want to miss.

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Our students’ testimonials

“The school has a warm and friendly atmosphere.”

The school has a warm and friendly atmosphere where everyone knows each other’s name, making life away from home feel less lonely. When I return to Korea, I think I will miss my dear friends, teachers and this beautiful city. I am happy to have had the opportunity to make friends from different countries.

Minsol, Korea

“An experience worth recommending!”

My most unforgettable memories at EC are mostly little things, like making new friends who laugh a lot and sharing funny moments. I would recommend it! The amount of new knowledge and new memories you have is great and fun.

Juan Hose, Argentina

“This trip was the best decision of my life!”

I think 3 weeks learning in English was short, I would like to stay longer!! I’m sad to have to go back. I met people, visited places and lived adventures. I have discovered new dreams. This trip was the best decision of my life

Patricia, Brazil

“Thanks to EC, I learned a lot and gained great opportunities.”

It has been an enriching process, full of learning and without EC’s help and motivation, I would not have been able to get to this point. I am very grateful for everything I have learned and for the opportunities that have opened up for me. Thanks to all! With love, your student ambassador

Tatiana, Colombia

“Unforgettable memories, great friendships, and excellent facilities.”

The relationship between classmates is very good, and the time we spent together is unforgettable. There are many after-school activities at school, which are very fun and help me integrate into the group more quickly. The school facilities are excellent.

Li – Chih, South Korea

“New goals, friendships, and unforgettable experiences!”

One month at EC don’t just learn English but also about life! Getting out of the comfort zone was and is extremely necessary. I feel ready for a new vision of everything. It was a significant opportunity (that I never imagined I would have and fulfil) to meet people and cultures from various parts of the world. To my English teachers: you were awesome!

Carla, Colombia

“English opens doors to the world!

I study English at EC because it opens many doors in life. It is the language that allows me to communicate with people from all over the world and better understand their culture.

Ivet, Spain

Real outcomes

At EC, we are committed to ensuring optimal results for our students. That’s why, for 30 years, we have made research and measurement the cornerstones of our curriculum development, teaching methods and review process. This approach allows us to scientifically design a language learning experience tailored to your unique needs and goals, reliably delivering optimal results.

Learn More

Insights and Updates

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“Your career is your business. It’s time for you to manage it as a CEO.” – Dorit Sher When people talk about career growth, they usually focus on qualifications, networking, or work experience. But there’s one skill that quietly influences everything from job applications to promotions: English communication. Whether…

Why taking a gap year to learn English abroad is a game-changer

The time after high school or university is full of possibilities. Should you go straight into the next stage of education/work or take some time to do something adventurous before settling down? A gap year spent learning English abroad is the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort…

Explaining Future Forms to ESL students

Introduction: the grammar question that stumps new teachers As a student on a CELTA course, a trainee or newly qualified teacher, you’re going to come up against a lot of “but what’s the difference, teacher” questions. These are the questions that can really stump you when you’ve just started…

Be inspired by the stories of our students

Find out how our international students turned their first steps in language learning into important achievements that changed their lives.

Rayan, Saudi Arabia

Elena, Russia

Nicolas, Colombia

Yunseop, Korea

Study English in San Diego

Learn English in San Diego and explore one of the most exciting cities in California. Improve your English fluency while enjoying life by the ocean. Learn English as a second language in a city known for its beaches, relaxed lifestyle and access to American culture. San Diego is also close to Los Angeles (only 2 hours away), giving you the chance to explore more of Southern California while you study. Whether you’re learning English for work, education, travel or personal growth, San Diego is an ideal place to study and live.

Learn English in San Diego with EC

Join our English language school in San Diego and get the support you need to reach your goals. Located near La Jolla, our school offers English for specific purposes and general English courses. Our English + Surfing option is a package that all our students love! Our student care team is here to help you feel welcome and focused. With a strong nationality mix, you’ll speak English every day and meet classmates from around the world. Whether you’re starting from beginner level or aiming for advanced fluency, EC San Diego is the place to learn and grow.

Living and learning in San Diego

When you learn English in San Diego, your experience goes beyond the classroom. Enjoy student life in a safe, friendly city with plenty to do after lessons. You can stay with a local host family or in shared student accommodation close to the school. Practice English daily with native speakers as you explore the local area. From surfing and hiking to visiting museums and cultural sites, living in San Diego helps you connect with American culture while improving your language skills. Make the most of your time in California while studying English in one of the best places to learn.

FAQS about Learning English in San Diego

What are some of the special courses I can take, if I learn English at EC San Diego?

At EC San Diego, we offer a range of English language courses designed to help you improve your English skills and achieve your goals.

General English is our most popular course. General English can be taken as 20, 24, 26 or 30 lessons per week. Each lesson is 45 minutes.

In addition to our General English courses, we offer a Cambridge Exam preparation course that will fully prepare you for your Cambridge Examination. This intensive course, comprising 30 lessons per week, has set start dates throughout the year.

If you are interested in Business English or workplace communication, our English for Work course (24 lessons per week) consists of 20 lessons of General English, plus 10 lessons of career-focused English for Work.

You can combine any group course at EC San Diego with any number of One-to-One private lessons. Each private English lesson is 60 minutes.

I want to learn English in San Diego: What are the accommodation options?

At EC San Diego, we offer two main types of accommodation: homestay with a local family or shared student apartments.

If you choose a homestay, you’ll live with a San Diego family in their home. This is a great way to experience daily life in the city and practise your English in real situations, such as during meals or conversations at home. It’s also a good choice if you want a more personal and supportive environment.

If you prefer more independence, our student shared apartments may be right for you. You’ll live with other EC students from around the world, giving you the chance to make friends and speak English every day. Apartments are fully furnished and located near shops, public transport and the beach.

Both options are safe, comfortable, and provide you with the opportunity to enjoy your time in San Diego while improving your English. Our team is here to help you select the accommodation that best suits your needs and lifestyle.

What are some of the most popular things to do while I learn English in San Diego?

San Diego has great weather and lots of fun things to do outdoors. Surfing is very popular here, and you can even join a course that combines English lessons with surf lessons. It’s a fun way to learn and enjoy the ocean. You can also visit the famous San Diego Zoo, go sea kayaking, or explore Balboa Park with its gardens and museums. On weekends, it’s easy to take trips to other places in California like Los Angeles or even cross the border to Tijuana, Mexico. San Diego also has amazing food, with a mix of Mexican and Californian flavours. EC San Diego has a social programme to help you enjoy the city, meet new people and practise your English outside the classroom.

Will I need a visa to learn English in San Diego?

Visa requirements for studying English in San Diego vary depending on your nationality, the length of your stay, and the type of course you plan to take. It’s important to understand the specific rules that apply to your situation. Our team can help guide you through the process and provide the information you need. Contact us for advice and support tailored to your individual case.

Why should I learn English in San Diego?

San Diego is one of the top places in the United States to learn English. With its warm climate, beautiful coastline and friendly local community, it offers the ideal balance between study and lifestyle. When you learn English in San Diego, you’ll enjoy an active, outdoor environment where you can surf, hike, and explore the city after class. It’s a relaxed and welcoming place, perfect for international students who want to experience real American culture while improving their English fluency. You’ll practise English every day, not just in the classroom but also while making friends, going out, and living the California lifestyle. Whether you’re here for a short course or a longer stay, San Diego provides the space to grow your confidence and use English in real-world situations.