The English Language Programs

Come join us in Philadelphia, a vibrant and diverse city of 1.5 million people! Philadelphia is the fifth largest city in the United States, and was the United States’ first capital. Today, Philadelphia is rich in culture, history, art, nature, shopping, and entertainment. Philadelphia is located between New York and Washington, D.C., and within easy travel distance to Boston, Baltimore, and the Atlantic Ocean beaches.

University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Programs (ELP) is one of the top programs in the U.S. All full-time instructors hold Master’s or PhD degrees in English as a Second Language (ESL) or Applied Linguistics and have extensive teaching experience. University of Pennsylvania (Penn) is a top-ranked, Ivy League university, home to the Wharton School of Business.

ELP offers courses in Academic, Business, and General English, and has well-equipped university classrooms and small class sizes. ELP organizes social and cultural opportunities and provides strong student support services. ELP allows students to gain exposure to the U.S. university system while being immersed in the language and culture of the U.S.

PROGRAMS

Institute for Academic Studies

The Institute for Academic Studies provides a foundation for university-level English. Students receive an introduction to academic subjects in English and experience life and culture at a U.S. university. 

• 4-week sessions
• 20 academic hours per week
• 4 Penn faculty guest lectures 
• 3 levels: pre-intermediate, intermediate, and advanced 

Elective courses cover academic content on topics such as Communications, Innovation & Technology, Leadership, Marketing, Resiliency, and Sustainability while core courses include a focus on the culture and history of Philadelphia.

Institute for Business Communication

The Institute for Business Communication engages students in courses that cover a variety of real world business issues and topics designed to improve their business knowledge and professional communication skills.

• 4-week session
• 20 academic hours per week
• 4 Penn faculty guest lectures 
• 2 levels: intermediate and advanced

Students develop practical business skills through simulated business activities and targeted assessments.  Covered skills include analyzing business strategies, negotiating effectively, collaborating in meetings, and speaking persuasively. 

University Connection

The University Connection program joins academic English preparation with one-on-one advising, admissions workshops, and orientation to US university culture to help students successfully apply to undergraduate or graduate degree programs at US universities. University Connection Plus includes SAT, GRE, or GMAT preparation courses.

• 7-week sessions
• 20 academic hours per week
• One-on-one meetings with university admission specialists 
• 3 levels from intermediate to advanced 

Students learn how to navigate the admissions process, perform university research, identify best-fit schools, write memorable application essays, and submit successful applications. Students also improve their academic English fluency and develop time management and study strategies to better prepare them for success in their degree program. Eligible advanced-level students can also apply to take a credit course through Penn’s College of Liberal and Professional Studies (LPS).

Intensive Program

In the ELP’s accredited Intensive Program, students develop their English language skills through well-designed core and elective courses.

• 7-week sessions
• 20 academic hours per week
• 8 levels from beginner to advanced

Exceptional curriculum and expert teaching methods help students increase their fluency and confidence so they can achieve their academic, professional, or personal goals. Every aspect of the Penn ELP experience – from in-class discussions to out-of-class group projects, from living on a university campus to participating in planned cultural activities – assists students in improving their English skills and enhancing their understanding of US culture. Includes academic English, business English, and general English course options.

Global citizen study abroad program

The Global Citizen Program is a comprehensive Ivy League study abroad program that incorporates both Academic English language study and a credit course. Global Citizen Program applicants should be currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in their home country.

• 4 or 8 months
• 18 - 20 academic hours per week
• 1 undergraduate credit course
• 2 levels within advanced 

Students participating in the Global Citizen Program improve their global communication skills, enhance their global understanding, and expand their global knowledge. Students receive English language instruction and access to an Ivy League undergraduate credit course. 

Student Activities

• Social and cultural activities, including museum visits, concerts, and parties
• Field trips, such as professional sporting events, shopping excursions, and beach trips
• Conversation Partners Program to practice English with native speakers
• Penn student clubs to volunteer, play sports, or explore new interests
• ELP Student Center to learn about fun events on campus and in Philadelphia or to relax and meet new people

Housing

• Dormitories: on-campus Penn residence halls
• International House of Philadelphia: suites of 10 single rooms with shared lounge, bathroom, and optional kitchen
• Off-campus Options