The Intensive English Language Program (IELP) is a multi-level, personalized program designed to improve the skills of those for whom English is a second language. It is intended especially for serious students who plan to seek admission to an American college or university or who wish to improve their English for business, personal or professional reasons.

Program Features:

• Intensive 16-week Fall and Spring Semesters
• Intensive 8-week Summer Semester
• Conditional Admission
• High-Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Class Levels
• Reading, Writing, Grammar, Listening, and Speaking classes
• 21 class hours per week
• Elective classes: TOEFL, Idioms, Pronunciation, American Culture, etc.
• Cultural Activities and Speakers
• Multi-media and computer laboratories
• Communicative classes
• Professional, dedicated faculty and staff
• Certificate of Attendance
• Academic Counseling
• English Only Policy
• On-Campus Room and Board available

Recent changes in US Immigration Rules:

• You may not study on a tourist visa (B1/B2).
• You may enter the United States 30 days before the date on your I-20.

Semesters and Classes:

The Intensive English Language Program is offered year-round. The fall and spring semesters are 16 weeks; the summer session is 8 weeks. There are 23 class hours per week. Courses are taught at the high-beginning, intermediate and advanced levels, and classes are purposely kept small so that students can receive individualized attention according to their needs. (Students should have some knowledge of English before entering this program.) Students may enroll for one or more consecutive semesters. More than one semester of study in the IELP is often needed for anyone seeking admission to the University at Albany, except when a student enters the program with an already high level of English proficiency.

Cultural Activities and Speakers:

IELP students engage in a variety of organized activities and cultural events to help ensure that they will experience the fullest possible use of the English language and increase their knowledge of American culture. During the semester IELP offers activities and excursions designed to help students learn English and experience American culture. In past semesters IELP has sponsored day trips to Boston, New York City, Lake George and Howe Caverns. IELP offers activities for each of the four seasons such as apple-picking in the fall and outdoor theater in the summer. Other activities include picnics, parties, an English Olympics, bowling, volleyball, and a visit to the New York State Museum. Each semester students have the opportunity to listen to guest speakers who give informational talks on such subjects as culture shock, safety and security, and immigration matters.

History:

The Intensive English Language Program (IELP) first opened its doors to students at the University at Albany, State University of New York, in 1978. Since that time, nearly 3000 students from approximately 78 countries throughout the world have studied English (ESL) in the IELP's classroom.

Location:

The University at Albany is situated in Albany, the capital of New York State. Historic Albany is a mid-sized city in upstate New York State in the Hudson River Valley, between the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains. For nature lovers, Albany has easy access to parks, lakes, and mountains. Its cultural life is very rich as well, including live theater, ballet, symphony, and rock concerts. Albany is a half-day's drive from Boston, New York City, and Canada.