INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The mission of the International English Center is to provide excellent communicative language instruction, academic preparation, and opportunities to learn about and explore US culture as well as the cultures of its diverse student body in a safe, friendly, and caring environment.

The University of Colorado at Boulder, through its International English Center (IEC), offers to students from all parts of the world a unique opportunity to learn the English language in a stimulating academic atmosphere. The year-round program features five eight-week sessions and one four-week session of intensive English instruction, combined with orientation to university customs, academic preparation, and an introduction to life in the United States.

Students are tested on arrival and are placed in classes appropriate to their proficiency in English. Students with little knowledge of English should plan to spend at least one year at the Center before entering academic degree study in the U.S.

CURRICULUM

The IEC curriculum is particularly suitable for students from abroad who are preparing to enter a college or university in the United States. It is also suitable for students interested in studying English for business purposes or others who are simply interested in improving their English through intensive study. Classes are offered at four proficiency levels: Basic, Intermediate I, Intermediate II, and Advanced. In twenty hours of classwork each week, attention is given to all the language skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing) and to the study skills necessary for graduate or undergraduate work in universities in the United States. Opportunities are provided for students at the advanced level to participate in a course in an academic department at the University.

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY

Minimum age requirement to enroll in regular IEC programs: 18 years (or 17 years with high school diploma).

COMPUTER LABS AND LISTENING MATERIALS

The IEC has two computer labs equipped with the lastest PC computers, software and Internet connectivity. IEC students have full access to the University of Colorado computing services. The IEC also has listening materials and equipment available for extra individual listening and pronunciation work.

BRIDGE TO THE UNIVERSITY

In addition to offering advice and assistance to our students who wish to apply to a university or college, the IEC provides a bridge to the University of Colorado (CU). The IEC works closely with the CU Office of Admissions to facilitate the process for our students, and every session CU officers meet with students who want to apply.

The CU Office of Admissions may inform you that you are academically qualified for study but cannot be granted admission because of insufficient preparation in English. If you are so notified, you are encouraged to join the IEC. When you have achieved the required proficiency, the admission process can be completed.

TOEFL AND OTHER TESTS

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is readily available on campus and at other locations in the Boulder/Denver area. The IEC offers an optional class to prepare high-intermediate and advanced students for the TOEFL. The ACT and SAT tests for undergraduate admission are also available, as are the GMAT and GRE for graduate school.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

The IEC provides many opportunities for students to enjoy recreational activities outside the classroom. Each session, the IEC hosts activities such as skiing, horseback riding, rafting, social parties and receptions, outings to museums and the theater, and other seasonal activities. Students also have the opportunity to practice their English speaking skills with their own conversation partners and in the Conversation Club.

Students at the International English Center

HEALTH CARE & INSURANCE

All students must show proof of health insurance or purchase IEC health insurance during registration. All students are entitled to use the University Student Health Center, which is fully equipped to provide both inpatient and outpatient care and emergency aid. Student Services Advisors can assist students with health care issues or problems.

LIVING ACCOMMODATIONS

IEC students can choose to live in university dormitory rooms (two persons per room, with meals included) or university family housing. Many students prefer to find apartments or rooms in the Boulder community. During registration week, IEC staff can refer students to local resources.

STUDENT VISAS

When a student has been accepted for admission to the International English Center, the IEC issues the necessary Form I-20. The student must submit this form to the American Consular Office in order to obtain the student visa for entrance into the United States and attendance at the IEC.

CALENDAR

Students may begin their studies at the International English Center at the beginning of any 8-week session in August, October, January, March, or June or at our 4-week session in July. See calendar for specific dates.

ACCREDITATION AND MEMBERSHIPS

The International English Center at the University of Colorado at Boulder is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA). CEA was established to promote excellence, assure quality, and recognize programs that meet accepted standards in curriculum, faculty and student services. For further information about this accreditation, please contact the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation, 700 S. Washington Street, Suite 200, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 518-2480.

The IEC is a member of UCIEP, a consortium of University and College Intensive English Programs in the U.S., and of AAIEP, The American Association of Intensive English Programs.