Program Information
Cultural Experience
ELI students have the same privileges as VSU students, with full access to all facilities including the library, health center, student union, and recreational facilities. ELI students are invited to participate in many social and cultural events such as banquets, cookouts, and field trips to historic and cultural landmarks.
Meals & Housing
VSU has a dining hall, several grills, and a fast food restaurant, and students may choose a meal plan that fits their personal preferences.
Dormitory rooms are available on a limited basis. Students staying for two or more terms will be given priority in dormitory assignments. Students are also free to choose other accommodations. There are many apartments within walking distance of the university and ELI staff will help you locate appropriate housing.
Health Services
All students are required to pay a health service fee that covers health care services at the campus clinic. This coverage does not extend to major medical needs, for which all students are required to have health insurance. Insurance must be purchased at VSU for a moderate cost upon arrival.
Attendance
Students must attend at least 85 percent of their classes and do the assigned work. All students who enter the U.S.A. on an I-20 from English Language Institute must attend at least one term of study at the school.
Certification
At the end of each term, certificates will be awarded to all students who complete the ELI program and are ready to proceed with regular coursework. In addition, certificates are awarded for special achievement and attendance.
ELI's 2009 Academic Calendar
Term |
Dates |
Spring 1 |
January 12 - March 6 |
| Spring 2 |
March 9 - May 11 |
| Summer |
May 15 - July 10 |
Fall 1 |
August 17- October 5 |
Fall 2 |
October 7 - December 11 |
Program Outline
CLASSES: Classes are small, with an avarage of 8 students per class. Four hours, five days a week, are spent in class, and students are expected to spend additional time in preparation for the classes. Students are assigned to one of four curriculum levels on the basis of a placement test at the beginning of each term. Students who have successfully completed one level will be promoted to the next level. Preparation for academic achievement, as well as an introduction to American culture and university life, will be used as the basis of classroom work.
GRAMMAR: English grammar is taught and practiced through a variety of communicative and functional activities.
READING: Courses focus on building vocabulary, reading, and study skills, with materials appropriate to each level.
WRITING: Students learn and practice techniques that will help them develop the writing skills necessary for academic success.
SPEAKING/LISTENING: Communicative activities help students improve their comprehension and expression of spoken English and reinforce vocabulary and pronunciation.
OPTIONAL CLASSES: Optional classes are offered in IBT TOEFL, and other fields according to student interest. These additional classes are available for a nominal charge and require a minimum number of participants.
ATTENDANCE: Students must attend 85 percent of their classes and do the assigned work in order to stay in th U.S.
CERTIFICATION: At the end of each term, certificates will be awarded to all students who complete the ELI program and are ready to proceed with regular university coursework. In addition, certificates are awarded for special achievement and attendance