Programs for Learning Academic and Community English (PLACE)
Find Your PLACE
PLACE (Programs for Learning Academic and Community English) at Colorado State University provides high-quality English language instruction and training in a safe and friendly academic environment.
Colorado State University is a leading public research university in the United States. We are located in the award-winning city of Fort Collins, Colorado, just one hour from the major international airport in Denver, and right next to the world-famous Rocky Mountains.
We offer the following programs (with more information below):
Intensive English Program
An English program for students who want to enroll in a U.S. university, but need additional English language support and instruction.
Bridge Programs
An academic programs that combine English language coursework with degree-seeking coursework. These programs are for graduate students in select degrees.
Community and Customized Group Programs
Innovative, customized language and cultural programs are designed in partnership with specific local and international communities.
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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 apply now or contact us for more information.
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 IEP PROGRAM
The IEP program is an intensive, immersive language experience that is either one, two, or three-semesters long, based on the needs of each individual student. When students arrive, they will receive personalized testing and feedback that places them in the right level of English instruction. 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 rather are specifically designed for IEP students before advancing into CSU or another university. Classes are scheduled every day throughout the semester and are designed to focus on the important skills needed to be a successful university student:
- Reading and Writing
- Speaking and Listening
- Grammar
- Academic study skills
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!
SCHEDULE
IEP sessions are scheduled on semester basis and follow the CSU academic calendar. Students can start their IEP program at any semester. The upcoming session dates are:
Fall 2022: August 22, 2022 (orientation begins August 15)
Spring 2023: January 17, 2023 (orientation begins January 10)
We currently offer partial terms in the Fall and Spring.
COST
The IEP is very affordable and the application is free and easy. If you are interested in becoming an IEP student, please start your application and a member of our team will follow up.
PLACE Estimated Costs: Fall/Spring
| Estimated expenses for Fall 2022/Spring 2023 | Per Semester |
|---|---|
| IEP program fee (tuition)* | 0-6 credits: $2,300 7-12 credits: $4,200 13+ credits: $6,000 |
| 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) | $15,291/$15,350 |
PLACE Estimated Costs: Summer 2022
| Estimated expenses for Summer 2022 | |
|---|---|
| IEP program fee (tuition)* | $5,600 |
| 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 | $11,915 |
* This includes all tuition and fees for fully enrolled IEP students.
** Refer to this page for a more detailed breakdown of costs.
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.
Bridge Programs
PLACE offers customized Bridge Programs in collaboration with academic departments. Bridge Programs offer master’s level students an opportunity to begin studying an advanced degree while receiving extra support in key language and academic areas. Bridge Program students often begin their studies in a non-degree status while improving their English and core academic discipline skills before continuing in degree-status to earn their master’s degree. PLACE currently offers Bridge Programs in the following academic programs:
- Master of Computer Information Systems (M.C.I.S)
- Master of Engineering (M.E.) or Master of Science (M.S.) in Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Master of Engineering (M.E.) in Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Master of Arts (M.A.) in TESL/TEFL
- Master of Finance (MFIN)
For more information on PLACE Bridge Programs, please fill out the application below or contact PLACEadmissions@colostate.edu.
Community and Customized Group Programs
PLACE offers innovative language learning and cultural programs designed for local and international groups. Workplace and community-based English programs are also available through PLACE. This program provides high-quality, non-credit language courses and special cultural activities near the beautiful Rocky Mountains, designed to meet the goals of program participants.
For more information on PLACE Community and Customized Group Programs, please contact us at PLACEadmissions@colostate.edu.
About Colorado State University & Fort Collins
Located an hour away from Denver, Fort Collins is the perfect combination of college town atmosphere and big city access. Add a national park, several classic Colorado towns, and, of course, access to the incredible Rocky Mountains, and you’ve put together an ideal college experience. You’re welcome at CSU – it’s a place for people doing great things!
Programs for Learning Academic and Community English (PLACE) Contact
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or for more information about these programs.