Intensive English Program

SAELL Intensive English Program (IEP)

Our Intensive English Program (IEP) is in person at our Main Campus in Chicago. Our goal is to prepare students to succeed in their future academic or professional use of English.

We have three terms each year:

• Fall (16 weeks, August-December)
• Spring (16 weeks, January-May)
• Summer (12 weeks, May-August)

Full-time students take 18 hours of classes per week in fall and spring, or 24 hours per week in summer. F-1 visa holders are required to be enrolled full-time.

Part-time students (not on an F-1 visa) take 6-12 hours of classes per week in fall/spring, or 8-16 hours per week in summer.

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Intensive English Program Levels

SAELL has multiple levels of instruction based on the CEFR standards: A2, B1, B2. The SAELL curriculum was designed to develop the four core language skills — listening, speaking, reading and writing — through consistent engagement with these skills throughout each level of instruction. In addition, the curriculum integrates grammar, vocabulary, culture, and content courses, and writing for specific purposes. The goal of the SAELL curriculum is to build English language fluency while integrating the skills necessary for students to succeed within their university programs and/or career paths.

Students are placed into their level of study based primarily on the TOEFL ITP and a writing assessment, or their progress in the last semester. Some course assignments may vary based upon individual skill area scores. All new full-time students take TOEFL ITP during their first orientation week.

*Please note: Due to limitations on students entering the U.S. on student visas, some program levels may be combined in a single cohort.

See the minimum English proficiency test scores required for admission to NEIU degree programs (bachelor's and master's).

Intensive ENglish Program Courses

We offer three core classes: Listening & Speaking; Reading & Writing; and Grammar

Sample Intensive English Program (full-time) schedule

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Important Dates

Admission Deadlines

Completed applications for our in-person Intensive English Program must be received by the dates noted in the chart below. Student applications will not be reviewed until all application materials have been submitted by the applicant and received by SAELL. Completed applications include the application, application fee, and immigration documents (if required). Once reviewed, the applicant will be notified of the admission decision.

Academic Calendar

Costs for SAELL Intensive English Program

*Insurance and living expenses are not included in tuition and fees. 

• See the detailed financial form for the SAELL IEP.

• Watch this video to learn how to complete the financial form.

   

 Apply to the Intensive English Program

SAELL is a proud member of EnglishUSA.