Intensive English Program
The Intensive English Program (IEP) offers high-quality, student-centered instruction and advising that prepares international students for success at Colorado State University (CSU), or other universities in the United States. The IEP creates a welcoming environment for both learning and living in a new culture, where all feel safe and supported. The IEP is accredited by the Commission on English Language Accreditation (CEA).
Application and admission to the IEP is easy. There are no application fees and the process only requires:
- Proof of school leaving certificate and/or proof of graduation
- A copy of your academic transcripts
- A copy of your passport
If you are interested in joining the IEP, we encourage you to fill out the free application today.
WHO SHOULD CONSIDER THIS PROGRAM?
The IEP is for students who have basic English skills, but need more English instruction and improvement to be successful in a U.S. higher education setting. We do not offer a program for students who have no English experience.
Highlights of being an IEP student are that:
- You will improve your English language skills.
- You will receive academic and personal support to ensure a smooth transition to your degree-seeking plan and goals.
- You will study alongside students from around the world who are improving their English language skills.
- Once you successfully complete the IEP experience, you can transition directly into your degree-seeking academic courses.
- Many students complete the Intensive English program in 1-2 semesters (one full academic year). You will be placed in the appropriate IEP level during new student orientation based on an English placement exam.
As an undergraduate student, the IEP is right for you if you fall into the following categories:
- TOEFL (IBT) score of less than 72
- IELTS Academic score of less than 6.0
- Duo Lingo score of less than 100
- ACT English/Reading scores of less than 20
- SAT evidence-based reading and writing score of less than 520
- No test score, but some experience with English in school or life setting
- View the additional English proficiency requirements or waivers.
As graduate students, the English proficiency scores and requirements vary by program. Please work directly with your program. To learn more, visit the Graduate School’s website.
Students that meet or exceed the English requirements listed above may apply directly to CSU. To get started, please visit this webpage.
ABOUT THE Intensive english PROGRAM (IEP) at place
Located in CSU’s historic Spruce Hall, the IEP is an intensive and immersive language program that is one, two, or three-semesters long, based on the needs of each individual student. When you arrive at PLACE, you will participate in orientation week which is filled with useful information to help you settle into your new community. Part of this will include placement testing, an advising session that will help you map out your time in our program, and registration for classes.
Our faculty and staff are here to help you achieve your personal, professional, or academic English language goals. The faculty are highly experienced and have earned advanced degrees in teaching English as an additional language. IEP courses are not CSU credit-bearing courses but are specifically designed for IEP students before advancing into CSU or another university. Classes focus on the important skills needed to be a successful university student:
- Reading and Writing
- Speaking and Listening
- Grammar
- Academic study skills
While studying at CSU, our students have access to a variety of support services ranging from academic and immigration support to special programs and fun events are organized throughout each semester to help IEP students connect with other students, the CSU campus and community, and enjoy the beautiful Rocky Mountains. You will love this PLACE!
Semester-Long Program Info
Semester-long IEP sessions follow the CSU academic calendar with 14-week terms in Fall and Spring and 12-weeks of class in Summer. IEP classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday with full-time students taking 18-21 credit hours per week. Students can start their IEP program at any semester. The upcoming session dates are:
Spring 2024: January 16, 2024 – April 28, 2024 (Orientation begins January 11)
Summer 2024: May 13, 2024 – August 2, 2024 (Orientation begins May 6)
Fall 2024: August 19, 2024 – November 29, 2024 (Orientation begins August 12)
Estimated IEP Costs
The IEP is very affordable and the application is free and easy. Here is a breakdown of costs per year:
PLACE Estimated Costs: Fall/Spring
| Estimated expenses for Fall/Spring | Per Semester |
|---|---|
| IEP program fee (tuition)* | 0-6 credits: $2,500 7-12 credits: $4,400 13+ credits: $6,200 |
| CSU fees** (based on max 21 credits) | $1,470 |
| Living and personal expenses** | $6,835 |
| Other expenses (books and supplies) | $300 |
| Health insurance (Fall/Spring)** | $686/$745 |
| Term/semester total project cost (based on 13+ credits in Fall/Spring) | $15,491/$15,550 |
PLACE Estimated Costs: Summer
| Estimated expenses for Summer | |
|---|---|
| IEP program fee (tuition)* | $6,200 |
| CSU fees** (based on max 21 credits) | $1,053 |
| Living and personal expenses** | $4,558 |
| Other expenses (books and supplies) | $300 |
| Health insurance** (not applicable if attending in Spring term) | $404 |
| Term/semester total project cost | $12,515 |
* This includes all tuition and fees for fully enrolled IEP students.
** Refer to this page for a more detailed breakdown of costs.
Mid-Semester Program info
In the Fall and Spring semesters, we admit students mid-semester for 8-week terms. These students will participate in similar Orientation Week activities including placement testing and advising to ensure they are placed into the correct levels before joining existing classes. This is a great opportunity for students who want to get a head-start on their English studies and not wait for the following semester to begin their classes.
Contact the PLACE admissions team for more information about mid-semester programs.
Mid-Semester Program Cost
The foundational IEP program is affordable and the application is free and easy. If you are interested in getting started with a foundational course, we encourage you to contact us today.
| Estimated expenses | Per 8 Weeks |
|---|---|
| IEP program fee (tuition)* | $3,100 |
| CSU fees** (based on max 21 credits) | $1,470 |
| Living and personal expenses** | $3,418 |
| Other expenses (books and supplies) | $300 |
| Health insurance** | $372 |
| Term/semester total project cost | $8,660 |
How to apply
The application for our Intensive English Program is free and easy. To get started, please follow these steps:
- Create your application using the ‘Apply Now‘ button below
- On the application page, click “Create an account” under the section titled First-time users
- Enter your information, including email address, name, and birthdate. You’ll then be asked to create a password.
- Once your account is activated, select Start New Application. Select the term (date) you wish to apply for and select the Non-Degree option (example: Fall 2023 Non-Degree). Do not select any other options. Once you have selected the Non-Degree option, you can begin your application and choose your entry term:
- Intensive English – 1st Session (begins in August for the Fall term and January for the Spring term)
- Intensive English – 2nd Session (begins in October for the Fall term, March for the Spring term)
- Complete each section and submit your application!
Applications are processed on a rolling basis, as they are received. If you have any questions about your application or need help with getting started, please contact PLACEadmissions@colostate.edu.
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Sponsored Students
We work with many government and private sponsors worldwide to provide English language to small and large student cohorts. We always work with our sponsors to make sure that students are meeting credit hour requirements, progressing within our coursework, and maintaining their standing at CSU. If you work with a sponsoring organization and would like to discuss partnership opportunities, please contact us at PLACEadmissions@colostate.edu.
Learn about the program from past participants
What year are you at CSU and what are you studying? “This is my third year at CSU and I’m a junior majoring in English since I’ve always liked to read.” What’s the most important lesson you have learned studying abroad in the U.S.? “The biggest lesson I’ve learned studying abroad is to stop worrying […]
Yibei's Story »What do you like about CSU? “I’m studying everything I like, getting a lot of knowledge, background, and foundations in math and engineering that will help me build a better resumé.” What do you like about the campus at CSU? “I like the campus because it is very quiet, it is super nice, wonderful, and […]
Cristian's Story »Why did you choose to study at CSU? “I chose to study at CSU in order to register for Business Administration. When I came to CSU I knew I could enhance my concentration and better focus on my major.” What is the most important lesson you have learned during your study abroad experience? “When I […]
Jin's Story »Are you involved in any clubs or activities at CSU? “I work at CSU, part of the front desk staff at Parmelee Hall. This is the best experience for me. I can interact with students and check stuff out to them. It reminds me of my first time here. I didn’t know anything about CSU […]
Felix's Story »