Our Paseo Program is open to high-proficiency English speakers who do not yet meet UMKC's proficiency requirements. Students study on an F-1 visa and the program is available for any undergraduate major.

The Paseo Program integrates English and academic study. Students enroll in classes based on their results on ALI's placement exam (CALIOPE). Students in the program are required to take two specific courses in their first semester: ENGL 110 and ALI 160. 

Program Features

  1. Admission to UMKC and ALI with one application
  2. No TOEFL, IELTS, DET required
  3. In-person, full-time study designed to be completed in one semester (Fall or Spring)
  4. Opportunity to complete core academic requirements while taking English classes
  5. Earn university credit while in the program

Eligibility

Placement

All international students who do not receive full admission to their academic program take the online placement exam prior to starting classes. Students interested in the Paseo Program should take CALIOPE as part of their admission process.

Once you have been notified of Conditional Admission to your academic program, the ALI will contact you about taking the exam. The exam is unscheduled. You can take it any time you want. The exam can be taken only once.

The exam will test you in three skill areas: Writing, Reading, and Speaking. Your score in each area will be combined for a total exam score.

  • Students who score above 50 will be allowed full academic admission to their degree program.
  • Students who score between 45 and 49 will place into the Paseo Program. 
  • Students who score below 45 will be place into the Intensive English Program. They will not be allowed to enroll in academic courses until they complete their English requirement.

Ready to Apply