Paseo Program
Start Your UMKC Degree While Improving Your English
The Paseo Program allows you to take university courses while strengthening your academic English. Build the skills you need for success in U.S. higher education - without delaying your degree.
- Designed for B1-B2 CEFR level (intermediate to advanced) students
- Develop academic writing, presentations, and research skills
- Earn university credits while improving English
- Smooth transition into full-time degree study
Is Paseo Right for You?
This program is designed for students who
- Need support with academic English, not general English
- Have intermediate to upper-intermediate English (B1-B2)
- Are fully admitted or conditionally admitted to a UMKC undergraduate program
A Faster Path to Your Degree Program
A student's movement through the Paseo Program is determined by their performance/grade in their courses. It typically takes students one semester to complete each level.
B1 Level - combine English with academic coursework
- Courses in academic writing, presentations and discussions
- Learn how to use sources and avoid plagiarism
- Option to take a UMKC course alongside English classes
B2 Level - transition into full academic study
- Receive targeted English support
- Build confidence in real academic settings
- Take multiple university courses
Full Degree Enrollment - Continue your undergraduate program at UMKC with the skills you need to succeed!
Future English Teachers
Undergraduate international students who want to teach English in the future can join the Applied Linguistics Minor Paseo Program. This special pathway has specific course requirements chosen to support future English teachers earning an Applied Linguistics Minor from UMKC.
Build the Skills Needed for U.S. University Success
In the Paseo Program, you will
- Write academic essays using credible sources
- Participate in academic discussions and debates
- Deliver structured academic presentations
Use Technology the Right Way
AI is changing how students learn. In Paseo, you will learn how to use AI effectively and responsibly in your courses.
- Improve grammar and vocabulary with AI tools
- Learn when and how to use AI in academic work
- Develop your own ideas while using technology as support
Eligibility
- Full or conditional admission to an undergraduate program at UMKC
- Proficiency test scores:
- TOEFL score 61-69
- IELTS 5.5 (minimum 5 in all bands)
- DET 90-99
- ALI Online Placement Exam placement into B1 or B2
- Completion of A2 level of ALI IEP
No Test Scores? No Problem
If you do not have TOEFL, IELTS or DET scores, you can take the ALI Online Placement Exam (CALIOPE)!
International students without test scores must complete CALIOPE before admission to the Paseo program and an I-20 is offered. The exam is unscheduled. You can take it any time you want. You can only take the exam once.
- Applicants who place at the B1 or B2 level on the CALIOPE are admitted to the Paseo Pathway Program.
- Applicants who place at the A1 or A2 level on the CALIOPE will need to complete the IEP before starting the Paseo Pathway Program.
Non-International students need admission to an undergraduate academic program before registering for Paseo courses. Contact your Roo Advisor and/or the ALI to learn how to register.
Join Paseo
Ready to combine English study with your degree? Reach out to get started.