ENGLISH PATHWAYS
TSIE & OTSIE English Pathways
Don't meet the IELTS/TOEFL requirement yet? Texas State's own academic English programs build a solid foundation and transition you into your degree.
TSIE — Intensive English in San Marcos
Texas State Intensive English is a non-credit, on-campus program developing listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary and grammar in a real U.S. academic setting.
5 levels
Structured path with placement test
8 weeks
Per term
2 tracks
ESL Only / ESL + Undergraduate
San Marcos
On campus at TXST
University preparation
For learners who need more time to build academic English — the ESL + Undergraduate track offers a conditional path into the bachelor’s.
All-round English
Develop listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary together — not just test prep.
Real U.S. immersion
Studying in San Marcos gets you into campus life, an international community and the rhythm of U.S. university study early.
TSIE costs
| Item | 1 term (8 weeks) | 2 terms / semester |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | $2,100 | $4,200 |
| Total Fees | $832.92 | $1,293.84 |
| Total Tuition & Fees | $2,932.92 | $5,493.84 |
Application fee: $90 (non-refundable, not applied to tuition). Students needing an I-20 submit a passport copy and bank statement after admission.
TSIE 2026 schedule
| Term | Length | Session dates |
|---|---|---|
| Spring A 2026 | 8 weeks | Jan 20 – Mar 9, 2026 |
| Spring B 2026 | 8 weeks | Mar 10 – May 8, 2026 |
| Summer 2026 | 8 weeks | May 26 – Jul 15, 2026 |
| Fall A 2026 | 8 weeks | Aug 24 – Oct 14, 2026 |
| Fall B 2026 | 8 weeks | Oct 19 – Dec 9, 2026 |
OTSIE — Online academic English
Online Texas State Intensive English: live Zoom classes with TXST instructors, from anywhere — a flexible option before coming to the U.S.
Online live
Real-time Zoom classes, camera & mic on
80 hours
Of instruction per course
14 weeks
6 hours of class per week
$900
Tuition per course
TSIE or OTSIE?
| Criteria | TSIE (San Marcos) | OTSIE (online) |
|---|---|---|
| Format | In person on campus | Live via Zoom |
| Duration | 8-week terms, 5 levels | 14-week course, 80 hours |
| Cost | $2,932.92/term | $900/course |
| Visa | F-1 required (with I-20) | No visa needed |
| Best for | Students ready to move to the U.S. | Students preparing from home first |
Frequently asked questions
Is TSIE credit or non-credit?
TSIE is a non-credit intensive English program at Texas State University.
Can completing TSIE replace TOEFL/IELTS?
It can satisfy TXST’s English proficiency requirement, with restrictions by program — check with your intended program.
Must TSIE students live on campus?
No. You may live off campus, though TXST housing is available if you want it.
How does OTSIE work?
Live Zoom classes with instructors and classmates, 6 hours/week for 14 weeks (80 hours). Camera and microphone are required in class.
What do I need for a TSIE I-20?
After admission: a passport copy and bank statement per instructions. Apply well before the deadline to allow time for the F-1 visa.
Which pathway fits me?
It depends on your goals, budget and when you want to be in the U.S. The International Office offers free advising to map the best route for you.
Build your English — open the door to TXST
Contact the International Office for a level assessment, TSIE vs OTSIE advice and a transition plan into your degree.