CLS Spark for Arabic is hosted by the TAFL Center of Alexandria University in Alexandria, Egypt, and provides an interactive, beginning-level learning experience in a dynamic virtual environment. Throughout the summer, students use all the opportunities the program provides to develop their Arabic language skills while gaining valuable insight into Egypt’s unique culture. 

Students participate in an average of ten hours per week of formal language instruction focusing on the major aspects of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) including grammar, pronunciation, reading, writing, and listening comprehension. Instructors also provide personalized support through weekly individual consultations tailored to students’ specific needs and interests.

Beyond the classroom, students participate in cultural activities such as cooking classes, calligraphy workshops, and discussions with experts and members of the local community to deepen their understanding of Egyptian culture and history.  Starting in Week 5 of the program, students meet weekly with their peer language partners for 45-minute sessions where they practice their growing Arabic skills, engage in cultural exchange, and foster person-to-person diplomacy.

Over the course of just eight weeks, students complete the equivalent of one year of university-level Arabic instruction and are eligible for academic credit.