DePaul University
English Language Academy

Why DePaul University ELA?

DePaul University's English Language Academy (ELA), founded in 1996, is an intensive English program that prepares students for success in university degree programs.

• DePaul University is ranked #125 by U.S. News and World Report
• Located in the heart of downtown Chicago
• Quarter-based academic calendar – 4 intakes a year 
• Conditional admission to most undergraduate and graduate programs
• Easy transition to undergraduate and graduate programs with no TOEFL or IELTS
• Small class size about 10-17 students
• 18 hours of in-class instruction per week across 5 levels 
• Courses offered in 4 skills: Writing, Reading, Grammar, and Spoken English/Listening
• Outstanding university support for non-native English speakers
• Individual conversation partner opportunities with trained American students to practice speaking/listening skills
• Access to all student services and resources offered by DePaul University 

DePaul University

Founded in 1898, DePaul University is the largest Catholic university in the United States, with an enrollment of more than 22,000 students. 

• 300+ undergraduate majors and graduate programs
• 97% of classes are taught by faculty members, not teaching assistants
• 15:1 student to faculty ratio 
• Students from all 50 states and 114 countries
• Over 90% success rate for recent graduates across all levels
• 350+ student organizations

DePaul Campuses and Transit

At DePaul, your "college town" is the entire city of Chicago. We have two main campuses located in Lincoln Park and the Loop. It is often hard to tell where the campus ends and the city begins.

• Lincoln Park is a residential neighborhood and retail center. It is an eclectic and lively part of the city, located 15 minutes from downtown Chicago.
• The Loop is the city's largest business district. It is called "the Loop" because of the elevated train tracks that circle the area, allowing for easy access to classrooms and all that downtown has to offer.
• All full-time enrolled students have unlimited free rides on Chicago buses and trains while classes are in session.

International Student & Scholar Services (ISS)

ISS is committed to providing high-quality support services to international students to support their academic and professional goals and engagement with the DePaul community. Some ISS programming includes the following:

• Orientations: Pre-arrival, on-campus and ongoing programs
• Advising: Immigration and support with cultural adjustment and mentorship
• Engagement: Opportunities for our students to engage with the DePaul and Chicago community through exciting social programming.

Chicago

As a student in Chicago, you will have access to a thriving metropolis with a rich cultural history. The third-largest city in the United States, Chicago is a fantastic place for entertainment and culture of all kinds.  Chicago by the numbers:

• 552 Parks- Millennium Park and Grant Park are just steps away from campus
• 42 kilometers of lakefront paths and 24 beaches along Lake Michigan
• 60 museums, 200 art galleries, and 20 neighborhood art centers
• 250 theatres, 225 music venues, and 200 dance companies
• 7,300 restaurants in the Chicagoland area
• 7 professional sport teams

Apply Now

Students are welcome to apply now at http://go.depaul.edu/apply. After you submit your application, we will contact you about admission and immigration next steps.