Program in Arabic Language

The program costs cover instruction, supplemental Arabic language learning materials (except for Al-Kitaab textbook, available for purchase at the YCMES library for $65), visa extension services, transportation to and from Sana'a International Airport upon initial arrival and departure to and from Yemen, cultural and historical day trips outside of Sana'a, round-trip airfare, wireless internet access, meals, housing, and lectures on Arab history and culture.

Standard instructions consists of either 4 hours of group classes or 2 hours of private tutoring a day, depending on total enrollment and individual student level, ascertained through the use of standardized placement exams. Although the school is often crowded during summer, all classes are capped at 8 students to create a more intimate learning environment conducive to language learning. Classes are held Saturday through Wednesday with breaks given during official Yemeni holidays.

Enrollment in the intensive language programs is limited to eight students per class, although class size is frequently smaller. This maximizes the student-teacher interaction and to personalize course work to the students’ individual interests and abilities.

Languages other than Arabic are not permitted during the lesson, except at the elementary level. Even in these instances, the teacher will use only as much English as is absolutely necessary.

The PAL strongly believes that students develop language skills more rapidly and effectively if they are completely immersed in Arabic from the outset of their studies. Outside of the classroom, students are encouraged to communicate among themselves in Arabic and to make social contacts, which provide an opportunity to practice their language skills with native speakers.

Some students, researchers or employees local to Sana’a have particular needs and interests for their Arabic studies. These may be historical, political, literary, social, religious etc but whatever the subject YCMES has teachers who are able to teach specialized subjects or personalized courses. The material presented in such courses will not only be tailored to the students’ needs but will also be appropriate to their language level. Students will be taught for between two and four hours a day, maximum. Furthermore, if a student requires specialist study, which YCMES cannot provide then we are able to liaise with local universities and experts to find a suitable tutor.

Some students may need to study Yemeni dialect for the purposes of their research, study or work. YCMES also has teachers who are experienced in tutoring students in dialect at all levels, using a variety of in house text books and materials from Yemeni media etc.

Adjustments to improve the curriculum are discussed during weekly meetings between the teaching staff and the Director. Furthermore, an annual review takes place to evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching system, course materials and administration. This process is aided by instructor input and extensive student feedback, collected verbally and by means of a detailed course evaluation form, which each student completes at the conclusion of the term.

Click to download our latest curriculum.

The program is divided into three basic levels of instruction: Elementary, Intermediate and Advanced. At the Elementary level, In the Intermediate and Advanced levels, Students are equally responsible for these materials and for the grammar and vocabulary taught in the structured section of the program.

Arabic Proficiency levels

Level 1: Elementary

The elementary level is intended for students with little or no prior exposure to Arabic. Participants will learn to read and write using the Arabic alphabet, and acquire the skills needed to conduct simple conversations concerning daily needs. Students begin building a vocabulary base and are introduced to basic grammar and syntax structures. By the end of level one, students should be able to satisfy routine social demands and limited work requirements.

Approximately 90% of total class time is organized according to this curriculum, with the remaining 10% left to the design of the individual teacher.

Level 2: Intermediate

Students entering the intermediate level should be able speak clearly, converse on limited subjects, and read and write simple texts. This level emphasizes techniques for reading, research and composition in Arabic, as well as advanced conversational skills. Audio-visual and published materials are introduced to reinforce listening and reading comprehension. Students gain increased confidence in grammar and syntax and concentrate on expanding their vocabulary base. At the end of this level, students should be able to speak, read and write confidently on various subjects, including: politics, religion, economics and culture.

Approximately 20% of total class time is jointly planned by the teacher and the students, incorporating student interest in specific subjects or areas of study. In the past, this discretionary time has been spent studying Yemeni music and poetry, readings on Islam, Middle Eastern politics, the architectural history of Yemen.

Level 3: Advanced

Advanced participants should be able to speak with confidence and clarity in most situations, and be capable of reading and writing on differing subjects with relative ease. The advanced level emphasizes overall reading comprehension, advanced writing skills, translation techniques and continued vocabulary acquisition. In addition to texts introduced for class work and home study, course material may also reflect the individual needs and interests of the advanced student. Participants who successfully complete this level should possess Arabic skills acceptable for academic or professional use.

Approximately 20% of total class time is jointly planned by the teacher and the students, incorporating student interest in specific subjects or areas of study. In the past, this discretionary time has been spent studying Yemeni music and poetry, readings on Islam, Middle Eastern politics, the architectural history of Yemen.

Click to download our latest curriculum.

Instructors for the Program in Arabic Language (PAL) are all Yemeni, both male and female, with educational backgrounds in language or a related field. The PAL is proud of the collective experience of its Arabic teaching staff, ranging from 5 to 23 years, ensuring continuity in the PAL teaching philosophy. To encourage improvement and rejuvenation of the program, the PAL regularly invites guest Arabic pedagogy lecturers, such as Peter Abboud and Aman Attieh, to lead workshops for its teachers.

All teachers place the greatest emphasis on developing a student's ability to speak and comprehend Arabic by listening to native speakers.

In 2007, the PAL became the first and only fully-accredited Arabic program for international students in Yemen. With the YCMES license from the Ministry of Higher Education, university students have a much easier time transferring credit back to their home institutions.

The YCMES is expanding its partnerships and relationships with over 75 universities worldwide, most notably in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Each university agreement differs, and for transfer credit information, please contact your university’s Registrar’s Office and/or Arabic language department.

In order to issue the appropriate Certification of Credit to the student's home university, the YCMES stipulates that all students requesting academic credit successfully complete both the midterm and final examinations. Each 100-hour term allows to validate a maximum of 6 course credits.

Upon graduation the YCMES provides a certificate of completion, provided the student passes his examinations. Examinations consist of a mid-term exam, an end-of-the-term exam, regular class assignments and class participation. Students are required to obtain a total score of +70 (highest score possible: 100) in order to pass.

For more information on university relations with the YCMES, please contact the main YCMES office at ycmes@ycmes.org.