The MSM Summer English Study (SES) program is a seven-week ESL intensive program for incoming accepted students.
The mission of SES is to welcome incoming students into the Manhattan School of Music community by equipping them with music-related English skills that will help them thrive during their time at MSM and to help students adjust to life in the U.S. and NYC. This program aims to ensure a smooth transition both academically and culturally, setting students up for success in their studies and daily life.
Click below for the most up-to-date information about MSM’s Summer English Study program:
Why was I selected to participate in SES? • Students are accepted into the SES 2026 program because we believe that you have the talent and ability to succeed at MSM and that you will greatly benefit from this unique immersive opportunity to practice Musical English that is directly related to your major in advance of beginning your studies here at MSM.
What level of English proficiency is required to join the SES program? • To join the SES program, applicants must have an English proficiency score of at least an 80 on all sections of the Duolingo English Test. This requirement ensures that participants can effectively engage in the program while still benefiting from language development opportunities.
Why is it so important to have a good level of English for my MSM classes? • As a musician, communication is key to success. Strong English skills enable you to engage with readings and class discussions, communicate effectively with professors, and express complex musical ideas in your private lessons and rehearsals. Living in the U.S. also requires proficiency in English for daily life tasks and independence. Attending this program will help you thrive, not only at MSM, but also in your life here in NYC.
Can I be exempt from taking SES? • Exemption requests may be considered for applicants who score higher than 120 on the Duolingo English Test on a case-by-case basis. If you wish to be considered for an SES exemption, your new English proficiency test scores must be submitted by April 1st, 2026.
What is the general calendar of SES? The SES 2026 program lasts for 7 weeks, running from July 1st to August 14th : • Arrival: July 1st • Orientation: July 2nd-July 6th • Placement Exam: July 6th • Regular Classes: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday • Wednesday Classes: July 15, 22, 29, and August 5th • Masterclasses: July 29th • Final Exams: August 12th-14th • Closing Concert and Awards Ceremony: August 14th
What are the main activities of SES? The SES 2026 program offers a variety of activities designed to enhance both English and musical skills while helping students adjust to life at MSM. These include: • Music-Focused Courses: Music History Class, Music Theory Class, Music English Tutorial • English-Focused Courses: Humanities Class, College Writing Class, English Language Tutorial • Educational Excursions: Cultural and practical activities around NYC • Performance Opportunities: Masterclasses, workshops, and concert opportunities
How many students are typically enrolled in the SES program? • Each summer, SES typically enrolls around 60-80 students ranging in English proficiency from B1.2-C1.2.
Who are the faculty and staff for SES? • All SES classes are taught by experienced educators with expertise in working with international students, several of whom serve as professors at MSM during the academic year. • The main SES staff includes the Director of ESL, the SES Assistant, and the SES Ambassadors, who will provide support and guidance throughout the program to ensure a successful experience.
What documents do I need to bring with me upon arrival at MSM? • You will need to bring your passport, appropriate visa, and SEVIS I-20 (which must be printed and signed by both the ISS office and yourself). Please contact the International Student Services (ISS) Office for all questions related to entering the US at iss@msmnyc.edu .
Who should I contact if I have issues with my VISA paperwork? • If you have any issues related to your SEVIS or VISA, please inform the ESL office immediately at ESL@msmnyc.edu. Then contact the ISS Office at iss@msmnyc.edu.
Will I receive a welcome package or any pre-arrival instructions? • Yes, you will receive a pre-arrival form via email prior to your flight, and a welcome package during SES orientation, which includes information about the program and how to navigate MSM and NYC.
What should I pack for my stay in New York? Are there any specific recommendations for MSM students? • We will provide all the details regarding what to pack and other important information during our pre-arrival info sessions in June.
What is the best way to reach the Manhattan School of Music from JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark airports? • The best airport is usually JFK. From there, you can take an Uber or Lyft. If you prefer to take public transportation, you can take the JFK AirTran to Howard Station, then transfer to the A Subway line to 125th Street, you can then take the M-60SBS Bus to MSM.
Will someone from MSM be available to pick me up from the airport? • At this time, MSM does not provide direct airport pick-up. However, we do collect flight information and arrival times to coordinate students’ trips. If two or more students are arriving at the same time, we will inform you, so that you may travel to MSM together if you wish.
Where do I go upon arrival at Manhattan School of Music? How do I check in? • You will be greeted by an SES Ambassador and a Resident Assistant who will assist you with SES Check-in and Andersen Hall move-in. You will also receive the SES Orientation schedule.
If I arrive late at night, will I still be able to check into my housing? • Yes, you will be able to move-in even if you arrive late. A Summer Resident Assistant will be on duty to assist you with the move-in process. However, you must contact the ESL office first thing in the morning to complete the SES check-in process.
What should I do if I experience any travel delays? Who should I contact? • Please contact the ESL Office right away at esl@msmnyc.edu if you experience any travel delays.
How many students will there be in each class? • Our focus at SES is to provide a high-quality education through individualized attention for each student. As such, our large classes have 8-15 students, and our tutorial classes have 2-4 students.
How are the classes divided? • The classes are primarily divided into groups based on English proficiency levels. However, we also try to consider other factors such as degree level, major, age, and music knowledge as much as possible.
Will I be able to choose my schedule or classes? • No, your schedule and classes will be assigned based on your placement exam results.
Is attendance mandatory for all classes and activities? • Yes, attendance is mandatory for all classes and activities, with very few exceptions. If you are unable to attend a class or activity due to sickness, you must request leave in advance from the Director.
Will I receive a grade for the course? • Yes, you will receive individual grades for each of your six classes as well as one overall SES grade which will be recorded on your official MSM transcript.
Will there be opportunities to perform during the program? • Yes, the goal of SES is to enhance your English skills with the purpose of supporting your growth as a musician. As such, we encourage students to participate in our masterclasses and workshops during the last week of July and the closing concert in mid-August.
Can I take music lessons from my MSM studio teacher during SES? • Yes, as long as your lessons to not interfere with SES classes or activities, we encourage you to take advantage of your time in New York during the summer to connect with your main studio teacher and take some lessons before the fall semester begins!
Will I have access to practice rooms during the program? • Yes, SES students will have access to practice rooms in the Andersen Hall Dorm and MSM Main Building. You will receive detailed instructions on how to reserve a practice room during SES orientation.
Are there designated hours for practice? • When you finish with your SES classes for the day, you can practice in the Main Building until 11:30pm. You can also practice in Andersen Hall anytime, including at night.
Are there opportunities to attend concerts, performances, or other music-related events? • Yes, NYC offers a vibrant cultural scene, and there are plenty of music-related events during the summer. Student discounts may be available for some events, and Student Engagement will provide information about these opportunities.
What is the deadline for tuition payment? • SES Tuition is due in full on June 11, 2026. For information on methods of payment, please visit the Summer English Study Accounts page.
Is there a payment plan available for tuition? • No, unfortunately there is no payment plan available for tuition.
Does SES offer financial aid or scholarships? • No, unfortunately SES does not offer any financial aid or scholarships at this time. If you need assistance affording your education at MSM, please contact our financial aid office at finaid@msmnyc.edu.
What kind of extracurricular activities does SES offer? • SES offers a variety of fun activities, including field trips around NYC, movie days, and school events like welcome lunches and bubble tea with the Dean.
Are these activities included in the program, or do they require an additional fee? • All activities are included in SES 2026 with no additional fees. However, students are responsible for additional personal spending during field trips (e.g., shopping). Subway transportation and museum tickets for field trips are covered by MSM.
Tentative Expenses for SES 2026: (if you are on a phone or tablet, swipe left!)
*All students on an F-1 Student Visa must purchase the SES Student Health Insurance Plan.*
Students are required to submit a non-refundable deposit of $600 upon notice of their acceptance to SES, this non-refundable deposit counts toward tuition.
For more information on paying tuition for SES, visit our Summer English Study Accounts page.
esl@msmnyc.edu
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