Arabic Summer Program

The Columbia Arabic Summer Program (CASP) offers intensive instruction in the Arabic language through texts, multimedia materials, and activities designed to situate the language in the context of the cultures in which it is spoken. The program uses the Al-Kitaab series published by Georgetown University Press.

The language of instruction is Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), but students also have the opportunity to take a course in Spoken Arabic offered in the afternoon if they wish.

Experienced instructors use a proficiency-based approach emphasizing all five skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture. Arabic is the main language of instruction. 

Students are encouraged to take courses in both sessions but may take one session with permission from the director.

The program also includes:

  • Daily office hours held by the instructors to advise students
  • Free daily tutoring provided by an experienced teaching assistant
  • Integrated weekly virtual events to acquaint students with the culture

  • First, Second, and Third Year Arabic I are offered in Session G

  • First, Second, and Third Year Arabic II are offered in Session J

Summer 2025 Session Information
Session Dates Application Deadline
G

May 26–June 20

Application Fee Waiver & Priority Deadline: 
January 15

Suggested International Deadline 
(Applicants with International Documents):
March 20

Final Deadline:
April 17
J

June 23–July 18

Application Fee Waiver & Priority Deadline: 
January 15

Suggested International Deadline 
(Applicants with International Documents):
March 20

Final Deadline:
April 17

Please note the University is closed on Monday, May 26th in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. Friday, May 30th is the scheduled makeup date for Monday's classes.

Apply

To apply, follow the Summer Sessions application instructions for your admissions category:

Applicants should select “Arabic Summer Program” under “Program of Study” on the application and then complete a questionnaire within the application to indicate the level they plan to take.

Note: 

  • Students applying for courses other than First Year Arabic I must take a placement exam.
  • Students who have taken Elementary or Intermediate Arabic at Columbia University are not required to take the placement exam.

Please check back frequently for updates, as Summer 2025 courses are added on a rolling basis. Registration opens on March 4.