Mississippi State University

Welcome!

The English Language Institute at Mississippi State University (MSU) offers international students an intensive English language program, more than 20 hours per week of English language instruction, in a traditional Southern setting.

The program provides high-quality instruction enabling students to achieve their individual goals, whether being admitted to MSU or improving English skills for employment or personal goals. The English Language Institute (ELI) has experienced faculty and staff committed to taking care of students. In addition to providing language courses, we are dedicated to providing services and cultural opportunities to ELI students.

MSU’s Intensive English Program

A department within Mississippi State University, the English Language Institute offers an eight-level intensive English program serving a wide range of English levels from beginning to high advanced. All students have classes in writing and grammar, listening and speaking, reading, and American culture. Students also participate in exciting volunteer and culture projects, promoting involvement in the community and providing them with invaluable English and professional skills.

Our program highlights include:

• 8 levels
• 20+ hours per week of intensive study
• Small class sizes of 10-12 students
• Experienced MSU faculty
• MSU language waiver for completion of program
• Classes beginning five times a year
• Academic language advisors
• Placement exam upon arrival
• English proficiency certificates and transcripts
• Conversation partners

Courses for all levels include:

• Reading class with a reading lab
• Writing and grammar course
• Topic-specific listening and speaking class
• Integrated skills course focusing on culture

MSU’s Culture Programs

All intensive English students are matched with a conversation partner, a U.S. student who helps with informal conversation. Many partners meet for lunch, attend culture events, or participate in sporting activities. Students also have the opportunity to attend Conversation Connections, a weekly program that allows international students to connect with students and faculty from the United States. The ELI and the MSU campus also offer other culture activities, including day trips, weekend trips, sporting events, and concerts.

Semesters & Sessions

ELI classes meet five days a week, and each session is eight weeks, which allows for a variety of start dates. Start dates for the fall are in August and October, and the spring start dates are in January and March. The summer session begins in June. Each of the eight levels normally requires one session (eight weeks) for completion.

Admission to Mississippi State University & TOEFL Waivers

As a major research university, MSU has eight colleges and many undergraduate and graduate degree programs. ELI students who complete level 8 can be admitted to a degree program at MSU with a TOEFL waiver if they meet other admission requirements. Both the undergraduate and graduate programs at MSU have conditional admission options, allowing students without English proficiency to be admitted and take ELI credit classes to finish the English certification. The English Language Institute works with MSU to make it easy for students to be admitted.

Students

MSU is proud of its diverse campus, and the intensive English program contributes to the diversity. ELI students come from around the world, including Brazil, China, India, Iraq, Japan, Kuwait, Mexico, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, Venezuela, and Vietnam to name a few. Because of our small class sizes, you can learn a lot about other students from around the world. Also, many undergraduate and graduate students attend classes at the English Language Institute while earning credit through Mississippi State University.

Housing & Services

Many students live in Mississippi State University housing and have access to a state-of-the-art recreational facility, which has an indoor pool, basketball & racquetball courts, weight rooms, indoor track, sauna, and cafe. Students also have access to on-campus amenities, the library, wireless internet access, and on-campus eating establishments. Our student services program helps with airport transportation, housing, banking, and other needs. We make your arrival and stay as easy as possible.

Southern Living

Starkville, Mississippi, the home of Mississippi State University, mixes the excitement of a university town with the charm and hospitality of a safe and friendly Southern city. We are known for our hospitality and sense of community. Many students also find time to travel during session breaks to famous Southern cities such as Memphis, Atlanta, and New Orleans!

Join Us Today!

Applying for full-time admission for classes at the English Language Institute  is very easy. The program can usually prepare and send an I-20 within 72 hours of receiving an application. Contact us today to apply!

We will see you in class!