Harker Summer English Language Institute
We have earned a worldwide reputation for being among the finest schools in the United States. Harker offers special intensive summer programs for international students interested in improving their English proficiency skills as well as experiencing the American culture.
Register Today! Watch Our ELI Students Describe the Program Submit an Inquiry About Our ELI Program
Summer Program Details
Our in-person programs offer multiple levels of academic instruction. Course curriculum is carefully designed for international students to accelerate language skill acquisition. The challenging learning environment combines traditional and contemporary instruction in small class sizes. A rich curriculum includes cultural excursions to support the classroom learning and provides extensive opportunities for off-campus English practice.
Core Areas of Study
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Listening
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
- Writing and Composition
- Study Skills
While regular interactions with native speakers inspire students and offer the very best opportunities to improve English skills, having social interactions during activity time is valuable to the development of emotional intelligence, teaching the students the importance of communication, cooperation and how to “play” together.
SESSION OPTIONS AND FEES
- 4 weeks: June 30-Jul 25 $5,200
- 2 weeks: June 30-July 11 $2,575
- 2 weeks: July 14-25 $2,850
- VIP tour: July 28-Aug. 1 $2,550
If you have any questions or if would like to learn how to become an ELI Ambassador, please contact us:
Joe Chung
English Language Institute Director
Email: joe.chung@harker.org| Phone: 001.408.553.5739
English Language Institute Office
Email: summereli@harker.org
Phone: 001.408.553.5738; Fax: 001.408.553.5735
ELI Online Class
Our online classes are in partnership with GKCors, Tokyo.
- Classes are offered online every quarter (winter, spring, summer, fall)
- For several years, GKCors has been instrumental in providing English language classes to students in Japan. We launched our partnership with them in 2020, offering online classes to further strengthen students’ English skills. The students are in their classroom in Japan with their teachers, and the Harker teacher connects with them via Zoom for lessons and activities.
- Students are encouraged to join Harker’s summer camp to experience the program in person.
Housing Accommodations
Harker's ELI is a day-only program and does not offer on-campus accommodation or supervision for students. We do provide resources nearby for families to stay close to the school. Many of our families also live with friends and relatives in the area during the summer session.
Recommended Luxury Apartments for Families
The Towneplace Suites San Jose/Cupertino (a Marriott hotel) is making housing available for ELI families. For more information about hotel accommodations please contact Joe Chung at joe.chung@harker.org.
IMPORTANT! Reservations must be made separately and are in no way connected to the application for the Harker ELI program.
Stay with Local Guardian
Parents may also choose to have their student stay in the area with family or friends acting as the child's local guardian. Many of our families have local relatives and make arrangements on their own for accommodations. If you have interest in your child staying with a trusted American family, we work with various respected homestay organizations.
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Admission Process
Students who are admitted to the English Language Institute are highly recommended, display a record of good behavior and are motivated to learn. Classes are small and teachers provide outstanding instruction, personalized attention, individualized support and comprehensive evaluation. Students must meet age requirements as of June 27, 2025:
- Elementary level students are between 6 and 10 years old.
- Secondary level students are between 11 and 16 years old.
Students who do not meet academic or behavioral expectations will be removed from the program. Student acceptance is only confirmed with completion of all application documents.
Summer Staff
Outstanding faculty and staff are one of the hallmarks of The Harker School. All staff are carefully selected to provide a positive experience for the students.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit all the following documents to be considered for admission:
- Application form
- Teacher recommendation
- School transcript/report card
- Behavior contract
- Health history
- Permit to Take Medications form
- Consent to Travel form
- Student questionnaire
Classes are leveled according to student assessment, academic potential and maturity. In order to maximize the overall learning experience, our goal is to have each student in an age-appropriate class that is challenging but not stressful.
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Eligibility
International students aged 6-16 who qualify for admission to the English Language Institute must be highly recommended, have a record of good behavior and be motivated to be actively engaged in the learning process. Students age 6-10 are eligible for the Elementary Division. Students aged 11-16 are eligible for the Secondary Division. Students must meet the age eligibility requirements as of June 27, 2025.
Campus & Facilities
Our outstanding and spacious facilities are fully equipped to offer our secondary and elementary English Language Institute campers a dynamic, enriching learning environment.
Learn More About our Lower School Campus & Facilities Learn More About our Middle School Campus & Facilities