Intensive English Language Program

Bridging Cultures, Building Futures

The Florida Gulf Coast University Intensive English Language Program  (IELP) offers intensive programs that prepare students for the use of the English language in the real world. Our methods of instruction are based on current research that highlights areas such as language teaching, acquisition, learning, and assessment. Our faculty and staff are committed to excellence in providing high quality service and education. Proficiency in English language can benefit students both in an academic and professional context, while providing an opportunity to understand different cultural perspectives and foster global awareness. 

Female and Male Students are reading inside a library.

Enroll in Real World and Academic English Today!

English language proficiency is key to academic success and professional advancement, offering invaluable insights into diverse cultural perspectives and fostering global awareness. At FGCU, we are dedicated to equipping non-native speakers with the linguistic skills to excel in college proficiency exams and professional environments requiring Academic English proficiency.

Our Intensive English Language Program (IELP) provides a comprehensive, immersive experience integrating grammar, reading, writing, listening, speaking, and vocabulary. This holistic approach enhances students' abilities across various contexts, including rigorous test-taking scenarios. Beyond the classroom, our vibrant campus environment encourages continuous English language practice through social, academic, and cultural interactions.

Welcome and Registration: Friday, August 16th, 9:00 am. Please check your email for important information from Dr. Timothy Gjini. You will be provided with details about your admission, arrival, medical and insurance, and housing information.

Program Overview: The primary mission of the IELP is to culturally and academically prepare non-native speakers of English for undergraduate or graduate studies at FGCU. Students will learn to:

    • Read academic-level materials
    • Write academic papers
    • Speak fluently
    • Take timed tests
    • Take effective notes
    • Navigate the FGCU campus with confidence, fostering meaningful relationships within the community

The IELP curriculum is designed to ensure that students achieve proficiency in Academic English, preparing them comprehensively for university-level interactions and coursework. Key outcomes include:

    • Mastery of advanced English grammar
    • Production of coherent, college-level writing
    • Ability to present academic work visually and orally
    • Competence in understanding formal and informal written/spoken texts
    • Ability to meet FGCU's language proficiency requirements for admission

Course Structure: Fall Term:

    • EAP 0841 - Advanced 1: Integrated Writing & Grammar (11hrs weekly, MWF)
    • EAP 0852 - Advanced 1: Integrated Reading, Speech & Listening (7.5hrs weekly, TTH)

* Prerequisite: Duolingo, or equivalent, minimum score of 80.

Spring Term:

    • EAP 0842 - Advanced 2: Integrated Writing & Grammar (11hrs weekly, MWF)
    • EAP 0853 - Advanced 2: Integrated Reading, Speech & Listening (7.5hrs weekly, TTH)

* Prerequisite: Successful completion of EAP 0841 and EAP 0852.

Faculty and Approach: Our faculty and staff are dedicated professionals committed to delivering exceptional educational experiences rooted in cutting-edge language teaching theories and methodologies. They provide personalized support to ensure every student achieves their language learning goals effectively.

The IELP at FGCU is more than a language program; it is a transformative experience that prepares students to thrive in English-speaking academic environments and beyond. Join us in building a foundation for academic success and intercultural understanding at Florida Gulf Coast University.

All class hours (18.5 per week) are offered in person.

New Students: Classes begin on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024
Fall 2024 Classes: Aug. 19 – Dec. 14

Three Easy Steps to Register

Step 1

Submit your Application.

Within 24 to 48 hours of submission, you will receive an email confirming your application. This email will include detailed instructions on your application status, F-1 student visa, and pre-arrival preparation process.

APPLY Now

Step 2

The FGCU Intensive English Language Program (IELP) has a non-refundable application and processing fee of $125 for the 2024 Fall semester. The application and processing fee for the spouse, sibling, parent, or child of a current FGCU student is $75. The one-time application fee can be paid using a money order, check (personal or bank draft), or online with a credit card. Upon submitting your application, the FGCU Global Engagement Office will e-mail you a link where you can submit the non-refundable fee of $125.

Pay the Application and Processing fee using a credit/debit card here: Click Here

Step 3

Once payment is complete, collect your Secondary School Completion document (equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma), Financial Responsibility proof (if applying for an F-1 visa), and a copy of your current passport, to be uploaded to your IELP application. Click above to access the Financial Responsibility form/proof.

*Program Admission Eligibility Criteria to enter FGCU IELP: Admission during the pilot requires an intermediate-level B-1 on Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR), 80 on Duolingo, 5 in IELTS, or 41-46 in TOEFL to enter FGCU IELP. Thus, to be eligible for this program, applicants must demonstrate the minimum official scores indicated above.

Have Questions about IELP?

Leisha Cali

Leisha Cali is FGCU’s Director of the Intensive English Language Program, a founding position similar to the one she held at Hodges University, where she designed, developed, and oversaw one of the region’s most successful workforce and college preparatory English language programs.

Prior to coming to Florida, Dr. Cali taught ESL at SUNY WCC, where she developed advanced English courses and initiated the launch of ESL at satellite campuses in Peekskill and Ossining, New York. Inspired by the challenge and encouraged by students needing to get their English proficiency to professional and academic levels, she uses Cambridge teaching methods and training she received while preparing teens and young adults for Cambridge First Certificate and Proficiency exams in Greece.

Her study abroad experience includes completing a graduate course in Greece with SUNY Brockport and her senior year at Imperial College in London. Dr. Cali holds a BA in English from SUNY Oswego, an MA in English from CUNY Lehman, and an EdD from NOVA Southeastern University. Her areas of research interest include the academic success of non-native speakers of English pursing college degrees and the enhancement of interaction as both method and opportunity for adults learning English onsite and online. Dr. Cali is fluent in Modern Greek and speaks and understands Italian and Spanish.

Contact

Leisha Cali, Ed.D

Reed Hall 113
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, Florida 33965

 (239) 590-7925
 lcali@fgcu.edu

Business Hours

Mon-Fri: 8:00am-5:00pm

Want to meet in person?

Reed Hall is located its on the south end of campus. Visitors can park in parking lot one after receiving a parking pass at the information booth at the main campus entrance.

Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday

Questions? Call 239-590-7925

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