Intensive English Program
Learn English at North Central College
The English Language Institute (ELI) is a full-time intensive English program designed to prepare international students for admission to a U.S. college or university by developing academic, professional and social English language skills. The institute is located on the campus of North Central College, a nationally recognized institution located in Naperville, Illinois, a thriving suburb just west of Chicago.
As a student, you will experience...
- High-beginning to low-advanced level classes taught by professional ESL instructors with advanced degrees in teaching English as a second language.
- Small classes with personalized attention and a focus on your language-learning goals.
- A Pathway into North Central College Undergraduate Degrees. If you apply to your degree program and meet all academic requirements except English language proficiency, you may be eligible for conditional admission. 95% of conditionally admitted students successfully move into undergraduate classes after finishing the English Language Institute.
- The option to start North Central College undergraduate classes while finishing the English Language Institute.
- An American university experience in one of the “Best Places to Live,” according to Money Magazine. Students live on-campus with roommates and take classes in the same buildings as other university students.
Campus Resources for Students
- Full access to North Central College computer, recreational, cultural, and health facilities
- Participation in the International Club, one of the most active clubs on campus
- Participation in North Central College clubs and recreational sports
- Convenient housing in campus residence halls
- Walking distance to downtown Naperville and to the commuter train to Chicago
- Free campus Internet access and laundry
Calendar Overview for ELI Terms
| Term | Arrival | Orientation | Class Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer 2024 | June 5 | June 6-7 | June 10 - August 2 |
| Fall 2024 | August 13 | August 14-16 | August 21 - December 11 |
| Spring 2025 | January 2 | January 3 | January 6 - April 30 |
English Language Institute Cost Estimates Through Summer 2024
| Cost Estimates: Fall 2023 - Summer 2024 | |
|---|---|
| Full-time Tuition & Fees (4 classes) | $3,145 |
| Room & Food | $3,302 |
| Activity Fee & Books | Included |
| Personal Expenses | $225 |
| Medical Insurance | $310 |
| Total (per 8 week term) | $6,982 |
| Cost for One Class | |
|---|---|
| Tuition (1 class) | $750 |
| Book Fee | $25 |
| Total Cost per Class | $775 |
English Language Institute Cost Estimates 2024-2025 Academic Year
| Cost Estimates 2024-2025 | Cost Per Semester | Cost Per Academic Year |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $6,340 | $12,680 |
| Housing and Food | $6,781 | $13,562 |
| Course Materials and Equipment | Included | Included |
| Personal Expenses | $450 | $900 |
| Medical Insurance | $800 | $1,600 |
| Total | $14,371 | $28,742 |
Conditional Admission Frequently Asked Questions
What is conditional admission?
Conditional admission is for applicants who are interested in an undergraduate degree at North Central College but need to develop their English language skills before starting a degree program.
Who is eligible for conditional admission?
North Central College offers conditional admission to undergraduate students whose academic record qualifies them for admission to a North Central College degree program and whose level of English proficiency is lower than admission requirements.
How do I apply for conditional admission?
- Complete the online undergraduate application and mark that you would like to be considered for conditional admission.
- Submit a $100 English Language Institute deposit using the Credit Card Payment Authorization Form or flywire.
Optional Documents:
- A personal statement (1-2 pages) describing your degree and career plans and how North Central can help you achieve them
- One letter of recommendation from a teacher or instructor
- English proficiency documentation
Can I get scholarships?
- Yes, for your undergraduate studies. 100% of admitted international students get a scholarship.
- We have a special scholarship, the ELI to Degree scholarship, for students who go through the ELI to achieve English proficiency. All fulltime ELI tuition paid is applied as a scholarship over four years of undergraduate study.
- Learn more about our scholarships here!
When will I know if I have been admitted to the Intensive English Program?
Once your application is complete, we can review your file and let you know your admission status and scholarship eligibility within approximately two weeks. Detailed undergraduate application instructions can also be found on our International Undergraduate Admission page.
