Surrounded by wooded mountains and filled with leafy-parks and flower-lined streets, this off-beat, nature-loving city is proud to be endearingly unconventional
Rising from a canopy of trees, Portland feels like a cosmopolitan city that got lost in the forest and decided to stay. Famous for its bicycles, its indie music scene, and the unofficial motto, “Keep Portland Weird”, this is a haven for eccentrics, fashionistas, progressives and geeks to express their love of everything home-spun, home-brewed, vintage and upcycled.
Our school is located in the hip and lively Pearl District – packed with art galleries, microbreweries and coffee laboratories. It’s just five minutes’ walk from Powell’s City of Books, the largest used and new bookshop in the world
Ten minutes’ walk or less from bus, street car and rail services, including Union Station, where trains are available to Seattle and Vancouver, Canada
Multimedia center with extra learning aids and a library including textbooks, CDs and DVDs
Runs regular volunteering drives allowing students to practice their English and build local connections, while gaining valuable career skills and experience
”They have a lot of activities. I like sports. I can enjoy soccer while I practice my English and make friends. Of course we can learn a lot from class, but I think out of class time is as important as class time.”
University Placement Service:
Our University Placement Service (UPS) allows you to benefit from our extensive network of partner universities and colleges. Combined with our wealth of experience, we help you gain entry to graduate and undergraduate courses. Learn more
Languages spoken by staff:
Japanese, Spanish
Teacher Qualifications:
Bachelor’s (or equivalent) in combination with TESOL, CELTA, TEFL certicate (including practicum) or six months of ESL/EFL teaching experience
This Kaplan International English school is accredited by ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training).
This school is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant alien students.All courses offered by Kaplan International are avocational and recreational, and are not intended to lead to vocation, occupation or career opportunities. Kaplan International does not confer credits, certification, diploma or degree for any courses, and no credits are transferrable to institutions of higher education.
*Student recommendations are based on Kaplan students surveyed in 2017.
School photo gallery
Check out images of student life at Portland school
Our Portland school has a dedicated social program, designed to help you explore the city and build friendships, through organised events and activities
MONDAY
Visit the historic old town Oregon Portland
TUESDAY
Eat ramen at Afuri, or delicious doughnuts at Voodoo Doughnuts
WEDNESDAY
See Oregon’s breathtaking waterfalls and mountains from the Columbia River Gorge, with regular hikes organized by the school
THURSDAY
Explore the local sites with a bike ride to St. John's Bridge
FRIDAY
Take a walk around the city to discover museums, farmers markets, street art, breweries, and thrift store
WEEKEND
Make the most of the longest ski season in North America on the slopes of nearby Mount Hood
Student residences are specially selected apartments, hostels, and dorms that provide a fantastic living experience. Enjoy a more independent lifestyle and the social aspects of living with new friends.
Live with fellow students for more independence
Most residences are self-catering
Socialize and have fun with your new friends
Single, twin, double, and dorm rooms are available at various locations
Ideal for students who want to learn about and immerse themselves in U.S. culture. Sharing meals with your hosts every day, you'll benefit from speaking English in relaxed, natural situations.
