FAQ
Questions about the English Language Institute
Here, you'll find answers to common questions about ELI programs, courses, admissions, and student experience. Whether you're exploring your options or preparing to join us, this page is designed to help you quickly find the information you need. If you don't see your question here, we're always happy to help. Please contact eliwsu@wayne.edu for further assistance.
Getting started
What English proficiency test score do I need for admission to the ELI?
An official English proficiency score report from IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or Duolingo is required for admission to the ELI. See minimum requirements for ELI admission below:
| Advanced | High-intermediate |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 65-78 (traditional) TOEFL iBT | 4.0 (band) IELTS | 6.0 Duolingo | 100-105 | TOEFL iBT | 50-64 (traditional) TOEFL iBT | 3.5 (band) IELTS | 5.0-5.5 Duolingo | 75-95 |
Do academic programs offer conditional admission?
Many master's programs at Wayne State offer conditional admission. Conditional admission requires enrollment in our English Language Institute (ELI) program, during which students are not eligible to simultaneously pursue academic courses. It is important to note that admission to the ELI serves as an alternative to submitting an acceptable English proficiency test score, and is not a temporary admission. It will also not affect your academic department's admission decision or change other program requirements. Conditional admission is not available for bachelor's or PhD programs.
I tested above the highest English level offered. Am I still able to apply?
Yes! Applicants whose English proficiency score already meets WSU's minimum requirement are eligible for admission to the ELI. Many students choose to participate in the ELI even after meeting the English proficiency requirements. Whether students want to build confidence with their English skills, help aid a smoother transition into their degree program, or simply want a refresher course, they are welcome to apply.
I'm a current Wayne State student. Can I just take one class?
Of course! Existing students who are looking to brush up on their skills are welcome to enroll in one or two courses. Exchange students who are here for just a semester or two are also welcome to enroll part-time to help sharpen targeted communication skills.
Do you offer online courses?
All of our courses are offered exclusively in-person. Courses take place on the third floor of Alex Manoogian Hall on main campus.
After admission
I've been admitted to the ELI. How do I register for classes?
Congratulations on being admitted! See registration steps below.
- Go to the university's registration portal
- Select "Register for classes"
- Select the term you've been admitted for under the "Terms Open for Registration" drop-down menu, then "Continue"
- Complete the Financial Responsibility Agreement by checking the box at the bottom of the page, then "Submit"
- Search "ELI" in the subject box, select "English Language Institute," and then "Search"
- Choose the courses you would like to take by selecting the "Add" button in the far right-hand column
- Press "Submit." You're now registered for courses!
Immigration
What do I need to provide for an I-20?
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security regulations require that all international applicants demonstrate their ability to meet all living and educational expenses for the entire intended period of study in order for the university to issue an I-20. For this reason, the Statement of Financial Support for ELI must be completed and submitted regardless of the source of funding.
How do I get a student visa?
After receiving your I-20 and admission letter from the ELI, you must apply for a student visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate. You should review in advance whether your home country requires an Exit Permit or Health Clearance Certificate.
Bring the following documents with you to your visa interview:
- Form I-20 A-B
- ELI admission letter
- Passport (valid for at least six months)
- All financial support documents
- Spouse/child's passport(s) if applying for F-2
- Marriage certificate/birth certificate(s) if applying for F-2
Learn more about student visas online at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Is health insurance required?
Due to the high cost of health care in the United States, Wayne State University and federal regulations require that all exchange visitors, international students, and their dependents have insurance coverage for illness during their entire program period. Health insurance allows you to focus on academic success, not unexpected health care expenses. Please see our Office of International Students and Scholars for more information.
2025-26 AY International Student Health Insurance
2025-26 AY Visiting Scholar Health Insurance
How do I enroll in health insurance?
All F-1 and J-1 international students and scholars whose I-20 or DS-2019 was issued by Wayne State University must enroll in the WSU Student/Scholar Health Insurance plan (IHIP) provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and managed by Gallagher Student Health. This insurance plan is also required for your F-1, F-2, J-1, and J-2 dependents. This includes Canadian F-1 students living in the U.S. and J-1 Canadian students and scholars.
You can buy insurance on an annual or semester basis and pay online with a Visa or MasterCard when you enroll. The annual policy coverage year runs from August 1 to July 31, so make sure to renew your insurance in time to retain your coverage.
Please see our Office of International Students and Scholars for more information.
Cost
How much does it cost to enroll in the ELI?
Tuition for the English Language Institute (ELI) is based on your class standing, your residency status, and the number of classes you enroll in per semester. See the ELI tuition and fee estimates page for up-to-date information.
Do you provide any scholarships for the ELI?
Unfortunately, we do not offer scholarships for ELI students at this time.
Other services
Do you provide tutoring services?
ELI courses are structured classes that follow the university calendar, not individualized tutoring sessions. For individual tutoring resources, we recommend connecting with the Academic Success Center's Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) program.
What is the SPEAK® test for graduate teaching assistants?
The SPEAK® test is required for graduate students who want to teach as GTAs. It is a 15-minute exam with 8 questions. You will be asked to complete tasks such as comparing and contrasting scenarios, describing pictures or interpreting a graph and supporting an opinion. The questions are not related to your academic discipline. You will be evaluated on how well you complete the tasks and how clearly you speak English.
All prospective GTAs whose native language is not English must achieve a score of 50 (out of 60) on Wayne StateUniversity's SPEAK® testto be eligible for a graduate teaching assistantship. If you score between 45 and 49, you are allowed to teach while enrolling in the English for Teaching Assistants training course, ELI 0520. Passing the course clears you to teach in the future without restrictions.
A score below 45 means that you can do non-teaching TA duties, such as grading or TA support. To be cleared to teach in the future, you may enroll in ELI 0520 or retake the SPEAK® test at a later date. A score of less than 40 means you cannot teach or take ELI 0520. First, you must retake the SPEAK® test and get a higher score. For any students who need to take ELI 0520, the hiring unit must pay the course tuition if the student has a signed GTA contract.
The Graduate School has agreed to waive the SPEAK® testfor students who meet one of the below requirements:
- Have a valid TOEFL iBT speaking score of 26 or higher (not the cumulative score)
- Have a valid IELTS speaking score of at least 8.0 (not the cumulative score)
- Have graduated from an undergraduate or graduate program in the U.S.
- Are from one of the English language proficiency exemption countries identified by the Graduate School.
New GTAs who need to take the SPEAK test will be contacted by email with information on how to prepare for the test and how to schedule it. Alternatively, they can contact Christi Laginess directly to schedule an appointment: christi@wayne.edu.
Where can I find additional student resources?
There are plenty of resources available to ELI students offered across the university. Please see table of resources below.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Admissions | Application guidance and admission requirements |
| Graduate Admissions | Application guidance and admission requirements |
| Tuition payment options | Billing information, payment plans, and financial processes |
| Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) | International student advising and immigration support |
| Academic Success Center | Tutoring, study skills, and academic coaching |
| Student Disability Services | Academic accommodations and accessibility support |
| Campus Health Center | Medical care and health services |
| Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) | Mental health counseling and wellness support |
| Dean of Students Office (DOSO) | Student advocacy, support, and crisis assistance |
| Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (OSVPE) | Prevention education and survivor support |
| Campus Safety | Safety programs, alerts, and prevention resources |
| Police Department | 24/7 campus law enforcement and emergency response |
| Housing and Residential Life | On-campus living and residential community support |
| Office of Multicultural Student Engagement (OMSE) | Cultural programs and community building |
| W Food Pantry and Thrift Shop | Food assistance and essential items for students |
| Career Services | Career advising, internships, job search support |
Where can I find out more information?
For any other questions, please contact eliwsu@wayne.edu.