Global English Online FAQs

For each day of class, the first hour is a group lesson with a highly qualified instructor. We will practice English together through conversation and speaking activities. Then, in the second hour, you will be in a small group with a University of Hawaiʻi student for discussion and small group activities (this is called “Interchange”).  We hope this class is great practice for your English and fun at the same time!

All class days and times are listed in the Hawaiʻi Standard Time zone (HST).  Please carefully check your time zone (and check the day) before registering for a class.  You may want to check here to find your time zone.

You will need a computer or other device that can run the Zoom app.  You will need access to a webcam, and you will probably want headphones.  Please make sure that you have a study space with good internet access.  This course is highly interactive and we require you to have your webcam on and be able to speak easily with your teacher and classmates.  Check here for Zoom system requirements.

Our classes meet using Zoom.  Please download the Zoom app on your device using the same email that you used to register for this class.  You will be sent an email with a Zoom Meeting ID and Password in order to join the class.

The GEO program is open to all students 18 years or older.

The activities are designed for students at various levels.

You can tell your instructor what level you think you are.

Basic - Low Intermediate: Appropriate for those who can talk about familiar, everyday topics with some pausing, and who have studied English for a limited amount of time.

High Intermediate - Advanced: Appropriate for those who can talk about more complex topics with minimal pausing, and who have studied English for an extended amount of time.

If you feel the class is too easy or too difficult on the first day, please tell your instructor. He or she can make the necessary adjustments. If you feel you need additional help, you can tell your instructor that you would like a consultation with the Program Coordinator for additional support.

You can receive a refund of the course fee (the registration fee is not refundable) if your request is received by our office by 12:00pm, 2 business days before the first class meeting.  To cancel enrollment, contact ipinfo@hawaii.edu

Yes. If you successfully complete the session (attend at least 90% of all class hours and participate fully), then you will receive a digital certificate of completion from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.

Yes!  If you would like to get some extra practice working with an instructor or with a student Interchanger, please check out our online TIP program (Tutoring & Interchange Plus) here.