From the few other posts on reddit, it seems the IUC is basically by far and away the best language school (if you can get in), and that basically nothing else compares (though this is perhaps hyperbole and suggestions are welcome). Whilst it seems like there are a few alumni on here, there really isn’t that much information anywhere, though where there is it’s usually highly positive.
For those who have studied, are studying or know someone who has studied at the IUC, what would be the realistic expectations for an [average N2 student](https://www.jlpt.jp/e/about/pdf/cdslist_e_all.pdf) going in?
I understand from the few posts I’ve seen online that a lot of students end by taking the N1, but for a number of reasons that’s not a perfect metric. I’m more interested in how Japanese FEELS afterwards? For example, could one expect to feel fully comfortable and confident functioning in Japanese formal settings, academically and professionally, after the course? Do you naturally use appropriate grammar points and register instinctively every time? Does it feel fairly seamless to express ideas and ingest information? Or does it still take up mental power?
From talking to friends ahead of me, and reading posts on here, it seems even very advanced (post-N1) learners can still get some level of eyes glossing over when facing large walls of text. Or have to engage some level of brain power listening to and responding in the correct manner in correct situations. Does the intense year of study and immersion break this? Or is that hoping for too much?
Given the hefty price tag, I’m wondering how far one could expect to go in the year? And, if you have a frame of reference, how did you develop compared to your peers who took other paths?
2 comments
I’m an IUC alumni, actually. All I can say is that it’s a great course, and will definitely level up your Japanese, especially in speaking intelligently, making academic arguments and the like.
I would still say I didn’t feel “native-like” in the sort of casual, shooting-the-shit but talking about intelligent stuff with intelligent people until I spent a couple of more years in Japan living, working, etc., but if you have the chance to take the IUC course, by all means go for it.
I’m a current student! Feel free to DM 🙂