English Language Institute (ELI)

Program Summary
The School of Continuing Studies offers an intensive English as a Second Language (ESL) program each summer. While open to all international students, the program is specifically designed to serve students with a basic foundation in the English language whose skills are not yet sufficient to successfully complete the University's academic program. If a student meets all other entrance requirements, but measures of English proficiency do not satisfy University expectations, acceptance into the University will be conditional upon the successful completion of the English Language Institute.

The English Language Institute is designed to help international students make the transition to life and study at the University. The program brings students to campus for approximately five weeks during the summer, beginning in early to mid-July. During this period, students participate in an intensive ESL program that utilizes both group and individual instruction. Emphasis is placed on enhancing reading, writing, research, listening, and speaking skills.

Students will enroll in three sections of ENGL 140 Selected Topics -- Core Preparation for International Students, ESL and U.S. Culture, and English Lab for International Students -- in which students receive individual tutoring. Students can earn a total of six academic credits during the four-week summer program. Generally, classes will meet all day Monday through Friday with time set aside for meals, study, and co-curricular activities.

Faculty
The faculty of the University of Richmond's ESL program are dedicated professionals in the field of language learning. All hold advanced degrees in English, linguistics, or related fields and have considerable experience in teaching English as a second language.

Room and Board
All students admitted to this program will be housed on the University of Richmond campus in air-conditioned facilities. Students will participate in the University's meal plan, which provides 19 meals per week for the duration of the program.

Orientation
The first day of the program will be devoted to an orientation to the University and the Richmond area. Throughout the program, topics of concern to international students will be addresses, such as banking, cultural adjustment, transportation, and the like. Students who successfully complete the programs will participate in a three-day university-sponsored orientation program for all new international students.

Social Life and Cultural Activities
In addition to academic studies, there are opportunities to participate in a number of planned co-curricular activities designed to introduce students to the University, the city of Richmond and life in the United States. There will also be free time to explore the area independently.

Living in Richmond
The University is located in a beautiful residential neighborhood on the edge of the city of Richmond. Convenient public transportation is available, and some stores and restaurants are within walking distance of the campus.

On-campus facilities include a bookstore, post office, several restaurants, a gymnasium and health facilities, swimming pool and tennis courts, plus various museums and galleries. All are open and available for use by program participants.

The weather in Richmond is hot in the summer, with temperatures ranging from 60 - 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so you should be prepared to dress accordingly.