Learn English in San Diego with EC San Diego English School

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Where language learning meets active 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.

EC San Diego offers 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 language journey in this fantastic city.

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.

Find Your Perfect 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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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 $310 p/w

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Your 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.

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!

Free access to Microsoft Office for the duration of the course

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

School Facilities

Interactive TVs

Self-study area

Student lounge

Computer lab

Internet access

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
Academic Workshops
Orange Carpet Experience
Sightseeing & Culture
Special events

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 Deigo

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.

Our Students Testimonials

Insightful Stories from Educators Shaping Your Learning Journey

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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Be inspired by the stories of our students

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

Rayan, Saudi Arabia

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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?

In addition to our General English programme, EC San Diego offers a wide variety of special courses to help you improve your English to succeed at school and in the global workplace. These include English for Work, an intensive English course that helps you develop the skills you need to advance in your career; EC x FutureLearn, which combines immersive English language lessons from EC with specialised online courses from leading universities worldwide. You can also take courses to prepare for the Cambridge Exams.

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

At EC San Diego, we offer host family or student shared apartment accommodations. If you choose a homestay option, you will live with a family in San Diego. This is a great option if you want to practice your English with a local family over home-cooked meals. If you’re looking for more independence, consider our shared apartments.

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

With its amazing weather, San Diego is home to incredible outdoor activities. Surf the beaches (you can even take a course that blends English and surfing!). Visit the famous San Diego Zoo. Go sea kayaking. Check out the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Or visit Balboa Park. EC San Diego has a dedicated activities programme to immerse you in all the city has to offer.

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

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to study in San Diego. Contact us to learn more.

Why should I learn English in San Diego?

If you’re looking to learn English in a place with an active, outdoor lifestyle and perfect weather, San Diego is for you. Relaxed, easy-going and friendly, this coastal city is home to some of Southern California’s best beaches and fantastic nightlife. Surf the waves by day between English classes and chill out with friends by night. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice your English outside class, while exploring everything this cool city has to offer.