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.
- 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.
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. Each class is five hours of instruction per week.
Classes typically have a Monday, Wednesday, Friday schedule or a Tuesday, Thursday schedule. Classes typically occur between the hours of 8:30AM-4PM.
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.
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.
| 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 |