The English Language Institute programs offer the opportunity for students to build English language skills and to increase understanding and enjoyment of life in the United States. In addition to the academic-year programs, the English Language Institute is sponsoring a Pre-Matriculation English as a Second Language Program for incoming international graduate students.

The Program

The program is designed to help newly-arrived international graduate students prepare themselves for the academic year ahead by practicing their English language skills, working on academic skills specific to their discipline, and meeting and spending time with their future colleagues. Classes will focus on general reading and writing demands faced by graduate students at the University as well as listening, speaking and presentation skills in an academic setting. All classes will be held weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at International House. The program is also designed to acculturate students to the American system of higher education.

Instructors and Program Assistants

The instructors are all trained and experienced ESL professionals and are familiar with demands of the University of Chicago. They have experience living and working overseas, thus giving them a unique perspective on international student issues and concerns. Our program assistants are effective organizers and communicators.

Separate two-week programs are sponsored for the following academic divisions and professional schools.

• Chicago Booth (MBA & PhD students) (August 17 - August 28)
• Chemistry, Physics and Geophysical Sciences Students (August 31 - September 11)
• Law (September 8 - 18)

Tuition & Fees

Tuition and fees are $500 per two-week module. The University may pay the instructional costs for the students. Contact your department for further information.

Housing

International House welcomes applications for housing from qualified individuals interested in living in its unique cross-cultural environment. Students who have signed a housing contract in advance with International House for the academic year 2009-2010 will be offered a housing grant that will cover room rental expenses during the period of August 16 to September 19. In addition, students are eligible to apply for Graduate Student Residential Fellowships to assist International House residents with housing and living expenses. Those students who wish to stay at International House only during the program will be charged the standard weekly rates. Inquiries should be directed to the Office of Finance and Administration at (773) 753-2280 or i-house-housing@listhost.uchicago.edu.

Students interested in participating in these programs should contact their Dean of Students or departmental administrator. Inquiries about the programs can also be made to Denise Jorgens, Director of Programs and External Relations at International House at d-jorgens@uchicago.edu or 773-753-2281.