english language institute

Intensive English Program

Apply to ELI Explore ELI ELI Brochure

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...
  • 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 American roommates and take classes the same buildings as other university students. 
 
Campus Resources for Students

 

Calendar & Cost Estimates

The English Language Institute offers courses year round and has five terms during the calendar year. Our academic year terms align with the North Central College semester calendar. Students are accepted on a rolling basis - there are no official application deadlines. However, we recommend that you complete your ELI application at least eight weeks before the start of your first term so you have time to complete your visa application process and prepare for your studies.

Full-time and part-time study options are available. For more information, please see our calendar and cost estimates listed below. Please note that the cost information listed is an estimate and should be used as a guide to help you plan for your education.

Calendar Overview for ELI Terms
Term Class Dates
Summer 2023: June 12-August 4, 2023
Fall 1: August 23-October 13, 2023
Fall 2: October 18-December 13, 2023
Spring 1: January 8-February 28, 2024
Spring 2: March 4-May 2, 2024 (no class March 11-15, 2024)
Summer 2024: June 10-August 2,2024
English Language Institute Cost Estimates
Cost Estimates: Fall 2023 - Summer 2024
Tuition $3,145.00
Room & Food $3,302.00
Activity Fee & Books Included
Personal Expenses $225.00
Medical Insurance $310.00
Total (per 8 week term) $6,982.00
Cost for One Course
Tuition $750.00
Book Fee $25.00
Total Cost Per Course $775.00

Class Information

Full-time students take four classes: Writing & Grammar, Listening & Speaking, Reading & Vocabulary, and an Elective Class. Elective classes are typically in American Culture, Test Preparation, or College Preparation. 

Classes typically have a Monday, Wednesday, Friday schedule or a Tuesday, Thursday schedule.

Classes typically occur between the hours of 8:30AM-4PM.

See a Sample Class Schedule.

Chat with a Global Cardinal!

Staff Information

The staff in the ELI, Center for Global Education, and Admission are all dedicated to your success. We work together to ensure you are able to transition from the ELI into your undergraduate, graduate degree, or next professional stage. We are also here to help you answer questions and solve problems. We want to help you succeed, and we want your time at North Central to be happy, productive, and memorable.

Interested? Learn How to Apply today!

To learn more about the requirements for admission or how to submit your documents and to view a full application checklist, click the link below!

Old Main Tower