Intensive English Language Institute (IELI)

Notice: The Intensive English Language Institute (IELI) is not accepting applications and will not offer classes during the 2026–2027 academic year. If you have questions about the program or future offerings, please contact ieli@uttyler.edu

The Intensive English Language Institute helps students progress rapidly and confidently. We offer a curriculum that enhances their understanding and ability to interpret context clues. This prepares them for success in academics at university and enables them to thrive in English-speaking careers.

The IELI Program is organized into two 8-week sessions each semester. Classes meet five days each week, providing students with 18 classroom hours Monday - Friday.

The Intensive English Language Institute (IELI) is not offering classes during the 2026–2027 academic year and is not accepting new students at this time. If you have questions about the program or future offerings, please contact ieli@uttyler.edu

Level Descriptions

To ensure each student is in the correct level of study, placement testing is required before the first session begins. Following placement testing, students can advance to the Academic English program (levels 5-7) based on their English proficiency test results.

Level 5: High Intermediate

Understand high-intermediate passages; write multiparagraph, organized essays; present academic papers to the class; and participate in discussions of academic topics.

Level 6: Low Advanced

Comprehend complex passages; compose organized essays appropriate for academic topics; and actively participate in discussions of academic topics.

Level 7: Advanced

Comprehend most academic passages; compose well-organized essays and research papers suitable for academic purposes; and actively participate in scholarly discussions.

Enrollment and Attendance Policies

Full-time enrollment for each eight-week session meets for 18 in-class hours each week (four classes and lab) resulting in 168 total hours of guided study. IELI students are expected to attend all classes and remain in class the entire period. IELI instructors record absences and tardiness daily.

Academic English Curriculum

The IELI core curriculum covers listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar, along with an additional class on various skills. Texas Success Initiative (TSI) elements are regularly integrated into the coursework. To move to the next level, students need a minimum 80% grade for two 8-week sessions, and those progressing quickly may advance after just one session.

Classes use a task-based and communicative approach, often with students at various levels. Multilevel classes encourage collaboration, reinforce learning, and create a continuous learning experience. These classrooms, fostering improved study habits, social interaction, self-motivation, and cooperation, are proven to enhance student learning and understanding.