Welcome
For more than 50 years, the English Language Institute (ELI) at Wayne State University has helped students from around the world build the English skills needed for academic success. As the only university-based intensive English program in metropolitan Detroit, the ELI specializes in academic preparation, real-world communication, and cultural orientation to non-native English speakers.
Improve your English. Begin your future.
Whether entering a degree program or strengthening overall communication skills, the English Language Institute is designed to help students take the next step. Through our program, students will:
- Meet Wayne State University's English language proficiency requirement for academic program admission
- Strengthen their academic and everyday communication skills
- Gain cultural orientation to the U.S.
Students who advance from the highest level of the ELI satisfy the university's general English proficiency requirement. In other words, completing our Intensive English program serves as an alternative to standardized language tests such as TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Duolingo.
The minimum scores needed for admissions consideration are listed below. Please note that some academic departments may require higher scores.
Benefit from experts
At the ELI, you will learn from experienced faculty with advanced degrees in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) or Linguistics who are committed to helping you succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Beyond academics, students become part of a welcoming international community. Students can participate in field trips, workshops, cross-cultural activities and holiday celebrations to help connect, practice English, and experience life firsthand in the United States.
Build skills to gain confidence
ELI faculty support students in every step of the process. Students form a vital support network together to help each other integrate faster into the English-speaking community. Through daily practice and meaningful interaction, students continually prepare for success in any academic program they choose. By the time students complete their coursework, they will have developed the communication skills, cultural awareness, and self-assurance needed to advance in their goals.
Duolingo
110
IELTS
6.5
TOEFL iBT
79-80 traditional; 4.5 band
MET
64
Passing all ELI advanced-level classes
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Our Mission
We prepare English language learners from the global and local communities for academic study by providing comprehensive and intensive language instruction.