Strictly Speaking is designed to enhance the speaking skills of non-native English speakers through conversation and immersion into U.S. culture. The program is informal and is not in place to substitute ESL courses, but rather to supplement them. Tutors work one-on-one with a student or in a small group (generally no larger than 3 students) once a week for approximately an hour.

The structure is not rigid which allows the tutor and student to shape their experience the way they feel most comfortable. Involvement in Strictly Speaking provides both the student and tutor with an opportunity to build a sense of community through intercultural and interpersonal understanding.