English Overview

Advance your English skills before beginning your program. Enroll in a semester-long or eight-week Intensive English program to best prepare you for academic success at UIC.

Benefits to You:

  • No minimum English test score required: Receive a full offer for Academic English and be placed into the appropriate class level upon arrival.
  • Build confidence: Live and thrive on campus as you improve your English skills. Participating in campus life will help you to adjust to your new home and achieve academic success.
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Program Description

The duration of Academic English programs through UIC Global align with the university semester. Students will study English for academic purposes in a university classroom setting. The Core English language curriculum consists of five levels.

Program Structure

  • Listening and Speaking:
    • Students focus on improving their listening and speaking skills for the academic realm. They listen to and analyze talks and conversations, participate in group work activities, practice various presentation styles and learn note-taking skills.
  • Reading and Writing:
    • Students are exposed to a variety of texts to prepare them for their academic coursework. They practice different genres of writing, are introduced to using citations and learn annotation and other strategies.

Program Details

Program Length*
Program Curriculum
Entry Requirements**
Credits Earned Toward Degree
Full Session
16 weeks
(10 weeks during the summer)
Listening and Speaking
Reading and Writing
While an English test score is required, there is no minimum score required to start.
Not Applicable
Session II
(Mid-Semester Start)
8 weeks
Listening and Speaking
Reading and Writing
While an English test score is required, there is no minimum score required to start.
Not Applicable

*Program duration varies based on level of English proficiency and intake period. Students may be required to take additional semesters of Academic English until they meet the standard progression requirement. All students will be tested upon arrival to confirm program duration.

**Some UIC majors and colleges may require a higher GPA and additional coursework for admission into their programs. Students are notified of higher GPA requirements upon arrival. All students must also pass the English requirement, ENGL160, to progress into their program.

Undergraduate Progression

Following completion of your Academic English program, you will progress into the UIC Global Extended Accelerator Program.

Anticipated Program
Program Duration
Progression Requirement
Extended Accelerator Program
3 Semesters
Successful completion of Level 4

Important Dates and Costs

For all application and payment deadlines, move-in and program start dates, and up-to-date program costs, please visit the Important Dates & Costs page.

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And we’ll help. We simplify the Academic Accelerator Program application process for you, so you can focus on becoming the best international student you can be.

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