English Courses at the University of Texas at Austin

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ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES OF UT IN THE CITY OF AUSTIN

Study English at English Language Center of The University of Texas at Austin in 2024 or 2025. Contact a representative to get a quote, to receive more information, and a pdf brochure

Where to study English in Austin Texas

STUDY ENGLISH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

Learn English in one of the best English schools, such as the English Language Center (ELC) at University of Texas (UT), which has offered ESL courses since 1965.

ESL student English Language Institute UT Austin

SOME OF THE BEST ENGLISH COURSES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

The English Language Center (ELC) at the University of Texas (UT) has offered English as a second language courses in Austin for over 50 years. These go from basic to advanced levels and include two different programs: the Academic English Program (AEP) and the English Language Program (ELP).

English courses at University of Texas Austin ELI

LEARN ENGLISH IN THE BEAUTIFUL CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS

Students of these English courses will be able to enjoy everything that Austin and the University of Texas at Austin can offer, including the city's awesome tourist attractions and all the UT campus facilities.

TOP 10 REASONS TO STUDY ENGLISH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

One of the most popular destinations for international students
1

TWO DIFFERENT ENGLISH PROGRAMS AT ELC UT

The ELC at the University of Texas at Austin offers an Academic English Program (AEP) and an English Language Program (ELP)

2

A PRESTIGIOUS FACULTY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS

The English programs at UT are taught by highly qualified teachers with several years of experience in ESL instruction.

3

A PERSONALIZED ESL INSTRUCTION

Small class sizes allow for students to receive more attention from their teachers, which results in a more personal instruction.

4

A MULTICULTURAL ENVIRONMENT IN AUSTIN, TEXAS

Students from all over the world enroll at the University of Texas at Austin to improve their English.

5

COUNSELING AND ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AT UT

The University of Texas at Austin offers counseling and academic assistance workshops focusing on immigration, cultural issues, and admission to university programs in the United States.

6

HIGH-QUALITY ACCREDITED ENGLISH PROGRAMS

The ESL programs at the ELC of UT at Austin are accredited by the English Programs Commission CEA, which guarantees English language programs of great academic excellence.

7

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO GROW

Learning English at the University of Texas at Austin offers opportunities for academic growth, research, collaboration, promotion and networking.

8

AWESOME EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS

UT has recreational, social and sports activities for ESL students. These will help you have a great social life, improve your English at a faster rate and make you feel at home.

9

OPEN ACCESS TO UT CAMPUS FACILITIES

Students from the English language program can access campus libraries and recreational and sports facilities.

10

A FANTASTIC LOCATION IN TEXAS

Explore the wonderful city of Austin, visit tourist attractions and interact with native speakers to further practice your English.

ENGLISH PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTER

The University offers 2 english program options for students

Choose the program that fits you best
Full-Time Program

Academic English Program (AEP)

English program focused on all the skills of the English language. Ideal for people looking to study in the US or for professional purposes.

Full-Time Program

English Language Program (ELP)

A general English program for people looking to improve their English communication skills.

Academic English Program (AEP)

This academic English program in Austin (Texas) is ideal for people who want to study a graduate program at the University of Texas or another school in the United States, or those who wish to improve all English language skills for professional purposes, such as academic writing, listening/speaking, reading/discussion, and grammar. Further, this English program is aimed at students with an intermediate level of English or higher.

Main Features

  • Full-Time Program
  • Classes are on campus
  • 18 hours per week (Monday-Friday)
  • 4 levels from Low Intermediate (B1) to Low Advanced (C1)
  • 8-week and 15-week sessions
  • You can take several sessions until you achieve your English language goals
  • Daily homework and frequent grading and feedback from instructors
  • Academic advising and graduate admission seminars
  • Optional elective classes for an extra fee
  • 12 students per class in average
  • Access to university facilities such as libraries, gyms, and computer labs
  • Extra-curricular activities
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Valid for F-1 student visa

Requirements

  • You must hold a university degree.
  • You must have an intermediate level of English proficiency. Show proof of a TOEFL iBT (55) or IELTS (5.5) score or achieve a minimum score in the placement test.

More information about the academic English program

Program Outcomes

  • Prepare to apply for graduate studies.
  • Develop your critical thinking.
  • Expand your academic vocabulary.
  • Improve your source finding and evaluating skills.
  • Get used to fast-paced academic lectures.
  • Learn how to take notes efficiently and effectively.
  • Acquire key skills to lead and participate in moderated discussions.
  • Learn all the essentials about academic writing, including proper citation.
  • Get familiar with academic presentations.

Class Schedule

Classes normally take place between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. There are usually breaks between classes and a 1-hour lunch break.

English Language Program (ELP)

This English language program (ELP) at the English Language Center (ELC) of the University of Texas at Austin is ideal for people who are looking to improve their communication skills in English. Since it has 7 different levels that go from Beginning (A1) to Advanced (C1+), all kinds of students are welcome to enroll on this fantastic English course at an excelling English institute in Austin, Texas. Moreover, you do not need to worry about falling behind or feeling bored, since your level will be assessed with a placement test and you will be put in a class with people with the same level of fluency.

Main Features

  • Full-Time Program
  • Clases are on campus
  • 18 hours per week (Monday-Friday)
  • 7 levels from beginning (A1) to Advanced (C1+)
  • 8-week and 15-week sessions
  • You can take several sessions until you achieve your English language goals
  • Assigned homework and frequent grading and feedback from instructors
  • Academic advising and undergraduate admission seminars
  • Optional elective classes for an extra fee
  • 12 students per class in average
  • Access to university facilities such as libraries, gyms, and computer labs
  • Extra-curricular activities
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Valid for F-1 student visa

Requirements

  • Students need to be at least 17 years old the first day of classes. No maximum age.
  • High school diploma required.
  • A basic level of English vocabulary.

More information about the English language program

Program Outcomes

  • Gain more confidence to communicate in English in social, professional and academic environments.
  • Improve all four basic English skills (Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening) to a higher level of fluency.

Class Schedule

Classes go from 9:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. There are breaks between each class and a 1-hour long lunch break.

Testimonies

Successful stories of international students from these English programs

My name’s Gabriela. I am from Guayaquil, Ecuador, a beautiful country in South America that is well known for its landscapes and also for the Galapagos Islands. I am also a physician, or medical doctor. I have been living here in Austin for eight months. One of the reasons I decided to study English was to overcome the great barrier that has been the language, especially when I talk with other people for studying my profession. However, it not discourage my desire to reach my goal, or touch my goal - that is to be admitted in graduate school. Therefore, I decided to put my professional preparation second and start improving my English. For this reason, I choose UT because this program not only help me to be more confident, it also improve my interpersonal relationship with native speakers and also improve my skills. ESL, as a multi-cultural program, also allow me to know about other cultures and have friends that - like me - has huge dreams and the same goal. Although we are people that have different backgrounds and different degree, we are people with the same dream or the same goal. We are people thirsty for knowledge and people that only want to be successful in graduate school. And also, this program has been - for me - one of the most empowering life-changing experiences I have had in my life because this program has more than one benefit. You not only acquire knowledge, you also get a family and also the professors here every day will push yourself to be the best and do your best in each activity that you will do. Finally, it is more for other people that want to come to here and study because as international student, it is really hard; we need to maybe do the 2000% more than people that is from here. Remember that not everyone is going to understand your goals and intentions. So many people will tell you, "No," and you need to find something in which you believe, smile, and tell them, "Watch me." Some things will suddenly appear, and some things just take time. Be consistent and keep pushing yourself. Be unstoppable!

Gabriela A.

Ecuador
Testimony by UT student Gabriela from Ecuador

PRICES & DATES

Complete the contact form to get a quote

PRICES AND DATES for ENGLISH PROGRAMS 2024 - 2025

How much does it cost to study English in The University of Texas at Austin?

Table with costs and dates of the English Programs at UT 2024 - 2025

SessionDatesDurationProgram Fee
Spring, 2024Jan. 8 - Apr. 2915 weeks$4,995
Spring I, 2024Jan. 8 - March. 18 weeks$2,600
Summer I, 2024May. 20 - Jul. 2910 weeks$3,350
Summer II, 2024 (*special program)Jun. 20 - Jul. 295 weeks$1,800
Fall, 2024Aug. 19 - Dec. 915 weeks$5,195
Fall I, 2024Aug. 19 - Oct. 118 weeks$2,600
You can study one, two, or more consecutive sessions, and you can start the English program at any season of the year.

For example if you want to study for approximately 6 months, you can take Fall I, Fall II, and Spring I sessions. You won't repeat the same course, because each session will be in a different level.
*Summer II (Special 5-week program)

5-week session for AEP only; this is an intensive session designed for graduate and undergraduate students admitted to a degree program at UT or another U.S. university for the upcoming fall semester. Classes in Listening/Speaking and Reading/Writing meet Mon - Fri, 9:00am-1:00pm.

Other Costs to consider

In addition to the costs of the English program fee, you should consider additional expenses, including medical insurance (mandatory for international students), accommodation, books and materials. Below you can see an estimate of the extra expenses to consider based on the duration of the program.

  • Application fee: $200 USD for tuition deposit and initial document issuance (non-refundable)
  • Visa costs: international students who enroll on a full-time program in the USA need the F-1 student visa. Costs related to the F-1 visa include the SEVIS Fee (US$350 aprox) to register on the Student Exchange Visitor Information System and a Visa fee (US$160 aprox). These are costs set by the U.S. government.
  • Accommodation: since you'll be living and studying abroad, you should consider certain housing costs. Down below you can read some of the options that UT at Austin recommends for foreign students.
  • Health insurance: all those who are on a student visa in the US must have a mandatory health insurance, which is offered by UT, and costs approximately USD$1400 (Fall/Spring) or USD$800 (Fall I-II and Summer I). If you wish to waive this requirement, you must have an external insurance that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements set by the school.
  • Books and supplies: these materials are not included within your tuition fees and it's a set fee for all programs and terms.
  • Flight Tickets from your country to Austin, Texas, USA
  • Food costs
Dates and costs are subject to change. All prices are in US dollars. Contact us for more details.

Click for Your Customized Quote!

Click to find out how much money you need.

HOW TO APPLY FOR AN INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

The whole application process is done online. Follow the instructions below.

Steps to apply for a program

  • 1. Application Process
  • 2. Acceptance Process
  • 3. Visa Processing
  • 4. Payment
  • 5. Classes start!

1. Application Process

Documents must be sent to utexasvivecampus.com

Documents needed to apply


1. Application Form

Download and complete the application form. Do not forget to sign the form.

Download Form and Instructions

2. Passport Copy

Clear Copy of the identification page of your passport. The passport must be valid for 6 months after the first day of classes.


3. Financial Verification

Bank letter or bank statement that shows that you or your sponsor have at least the "Estimated Total Expense" of the program (amounts can be in US dollars or your local currency)

The estimated total expense is an estimate made by the university that includes tuition fees, and an estimate of what you might spend in medical insurance, housing, meals, books and supplies.

Bank document must show at least the following amount per program:

  • Programs of 15 weeks: USD$13,500
  • Programs of 10 weeks: USD$9,035
  • Programs of 8 weeks: USD$7,371
  • Programs of 5 weeks: USD$4,788

4. Application Fee

Non-refundable application fee of $200 dollars paid to the English Language Center. After receiving confirmation from one of our representatives, you must pay the application fee online, following the instructions mentioned by the representative.


5. High School or University Diploma

As part of the application process, you must send proof of a high school or university diploma, which will vary depending on the program.

  • Academic English Program: requires University Diploma
  • English Language Program: requires High School Diploma

Send your application documents

A representative need to review all your documents are correct.

Your application documents must be sent to utexasvivecampus.com

*If you are a US resident or a transfer student from another US school. Please contact us for more details. The application process is different

2. Acceptance Process

After sending the application documents and making the necessary payments, you will receive an answer from the school within 2 to 3 weeks, after which they send the admission letter and the Form I-20 you will need to fill in and submit during the visa application process.

3. Visa Processing

International Students need to apply for an student visa F-1 in order to enroll on any full time program.

Once you have received the Form I-20 from the school, you need to apply for an F-1 student visa. This is done by making an appointment at the nearest US Embassy in your home country. Depending on your country, you'll receive a reply from the embassy within 2 to 4 weeks. Once you start the application process we'll send you more detailed information on how to apply for the student visa.

4. Payment

Next, you need to make full payment of all remaining fees, which is due at registration and can be done by credit card, traveler's check, money order or certified check. You'll receive more information regarding dates once you begin the application process.

5. Arrival at School

You should arrive a week before the program start date to attend the orientation at the end of registration week. On your admission letter you can find more information about the orientation and the initial placement test. On the first day at school you should bring your passport, F-1 student visa, I-20 and a bank statement.

Important: We suggest that you apply at least 2 months in advance.

ACTIVITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

You will be able to participate in several activities during the program

SOCIAL, CULTURAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN AUSTIN AND ACTIVITIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

Most of the activities are free!

ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO KEEP IMPROVING YOUR ENGLISH OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM IS PARTICIPATING IN SOCIAL, CULTURAL, SPORT AND OTHER ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN.

International students can participate in activities such as:

  • Chats with students who are native English speakers
  • Barbecues, and happy hour in restaurants / bars on the UT campus
  • Orientation seminars to apply to an American University
  • Visits to farms in Texas
  • Seminars on different business topics
  • Sport activities

All of these extracurricular activities you can join are a great way of improving your English at a faster rate, meeting other UT students, networking with fellow professionals, learning more about American culture, and of course, having lots of fun. Usually, all of them take place on campus or in nearby locations around Austin, so it's also an awesome opportunity to explore new places.

Information about the city of Austin, Texas

Austin is the capital of the state of Texas, and is one of the most vibrant cities in the United States. This city is famous for its huge variety of live music events, food festivals and sports competitions, as well as its famous restaurants, parks, lakes and museums.

It's also home to the University of Texas at Austin and it's constantly ranked as one of the best cities to live.

Moreover, some of the amazing tourist attractions you can visit in Austin are:

  • Barton Spring Pool, where hundreds of people enjoy going for a swim at this wonderful lake.
  • The famous Franklin Barbecue restaurant, which has been visited by Anthony Bourdain, Barack Obama and several other famous people.
  • Zilker Park, one of the most famous and largest green areas in the city of Austin.
  • Bouldin Creek Coffee House.
The City of Austin Texas is a great destination for studyng English

Information about The University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin is a research university of great excellence, which has 18 faculties and schools, and is home to more than 3,000 teachers and 52,000 students. UT at Austin has also a worldwide reputation due its great academic programs, wonderful libraries and fascinating art museums.

Some facts about UT are:

  • The University of Texas at Austin is ranked as one of the top 30 Universities in the world.
  • There is a large and diverse number of international students and professors.
  • It has world-class facilities, student services and resources.
  • It has comprehensive support services for international participants.
  • Is in an ideal location in the fastest growing and most entrepreneurial city in the United States.

Studying English at a world-class university such as The University of Texas at Austin is one of the best decisions you can make. Not only will you learn English, but you'll have access to social, academic and sports resources, you'll live a unique experience, and you'll learn about the university environment in the United States.

The University of Texas - English as a second Language

Photos of the English Programs at The University of Texas at Austin

ESL UT international students
The University of Texas English students ESL
International Students in UT from different part of the world ESL Texas

Videos of the English Programs at The University of Texas at Austin

HOUSING IN AUSTIN

Most common housing options for international students in Austin

STUDENTS FROM THE INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAM AT UT HAVE 3 MAIN HOUSING OPTIONS IN AUSTIN:

Choose the housing option that best fit you
  • Dormitories off Campus
  • Apartments
  • Co-ops

Off-campus Housing - Dormitories

Often when living in a dorm, there are hardly any chances of you being lonely. Friendships begin to form, starting with your roommate, others dorm mates living down the hall, and classmates you meet when starting the program. Living in a dorm is one of the best ways to make new friends. Some dormitories offer meal plans.

Some of the off-campus private dormitory options are:

Off-campus Housing - Apartments

Many privately owned apartments are available within walking distance of campus and on the UT shuttle bus or city bus routes.

You can visit the guide for UT students looking for off-campus housing:

Off-Campus Housing - Co-ops

Cooperative houses are democratically-run residences, called "co-ops," in which occupants share cooking and cleaning responsibilities and share decision making about house policies and activities. Sometimes less expensive than other housing options, Co-ops provide an opportunity to meet a variety of people.

Some of the options are:

FINDING A PLACE TO LIVE, DEPENDS EXCLUSIVELY ON THE STUDENT.

There are many options available near the campus of UT. If the housing option is off campus, students must contact the housing provider directly.

FAQS

Do you have any question about studying English at UT?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT STUDYING ENGLISH IN THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

If you do not find the answer, please contact a representative filling the form below

What is the English Language Center at the University of Texas at Austin?

The English Language Center (ELC) is the language school of the prestigious University of Texas at Austin. It has offered English language programs since 1965 and has a highly-qualified faculty with years of experience in teaching English as a foreign language. Mission: To offer the highest quality ESL instruction that supports current and potential university students, visiting scholars, and international student and scholar dependents at the University of Texas (UT); to provide EFL teacher training programs to the UT community and beyond; and to extend the reach and impact of the University of Texas at Austin to the world through our programs.

Why should I study in Austin and at the ELC of the University of Texas at Austin?

Austin is a wonderful city located in Texas, which has been ranked as one of the best cities to live in the world, and is a place where you can find lots of tourist attractions and fun activities you can do outside the classroom, to meet new people and practice your English.

On the other hand, the University of Texas at Austin is a world-renowned institution, with a diverse community of students and instructors who come from all over the world. On top of this, there you'll have open access to modern facilities, top-quality student services, and fun extracurricular activities.

I am not a student in my country. Can I enroll on these English language programs with an F-1 student visa?

Yes, these English programs are open for people who are not currently studying. Check the requirements for each program for more details.

Do you offer scholarships for these English programs?

No institutional scholarships or financial aid is available for the English programs.

How do I Apply for a Student Visa if I want to study English at UT?

Please check with us what type of visa you need to take the program you are interested in.

  • All full-time programs in the U.S. require a F-1 student Visa. With an F-1 visa you can extend your stay in the United States as long as you continue studying.
  • Part-time programs (less than 18 hours a week) can be taken with a tourist visa or visa waiver ESTA. With a tourist visa, you can only stay in the U.S. the duration your tourist visa allows, since your main purpose in the U.S. should be tourism.

If you need an F-1 student visa, please apply as soon as you receive your acceptance documents (I-20 form) from the University of Texas. In some countries it can take several weeks to obtain a visa interview at the U.S. embassy.

You must confirm these steps on the website of the U.S. embassy in your country. You can look for your nearest U.S. embassy here: https://www.usembassy.gov/

Does the English Language Center at UT have any comments or reviews?

Students from more than 40 countries normally attended each semester. The ELC has established policies, created curricula, hired instructors, and prepared classrooms to support its students. Consequently, they have good reviews and comments about these English courses, so we hope that you will enjoy your time studying in the English Language Center at the University of Texas at Austin.

The English language programs are taught at the University of Texas at Austin campus?

Yes, all the classes from the English programs take place on the main campus of The University of Texas at Austin.

Will I receive a certificate after completing the program?

Yes, students receive a diploma after completing the English language program.

How is my current level of English fluency tested?

Your level of English will be assessed using a placement test that you take on your first day at school, in order to put you in a class with students at your same level.

How many English proficiency levels does the ELC have?

There are 7 different levels, which are aligned with the CEFR levels, going from Beginning (A1) to Advanced (C1+).

How many students are in each class?

It usually varies from one class to the other, but the average number of students is 12.

Can I use UT facilities and services?

Yes, students from the English language programs can access different UT facilities, services, and on-campus activities.

Is there a minimum age limit for these programs?

Yes, students from the English Language Program (ELP) must be at least 17 years old by the time classes start.

Do I need to submit test scores or a transcript when applying for the English programs?

Yes. Students from the English Language Program (ELP) must send proof of high school graduation, such as a diploma, while those applying for the Academic English Program (EAP) need to provide a university diploma, and optionally, the results of a IELTS or TOEFL iBT test.

Are tourist visa holders allowed to enroll on these ESL courses?

No, since these are full-time programs, and therefore, you must hold an F-1 Student Visa.

Do I need health insurance?

Yes, all international students will need to have health insurance coverage, which is offered by UT at an additional cost. You can opt out of this mandatory insurance by acquiring an external health insurance that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements set by the university.

Do I have to pay for books and materials?

Yes, there's an additional fee you must pay to cover books and other materials. Contact us for more information.

Is there an application fee to enroll on these ESL programs?

Yes. It's a non-refundable fee you must pay at the time of applying. The payment method is credit card.

When should I pay for the program? Which payment methods are available?

The payment is due by registration week, once you arrive at the school. Payment methods include credit card, traveler's check, money order or certified check.

Can I work while learning English at UT?

You may only work for up to 20 hours a week and within the college campus. However, this type of work is usually taken by regular undergraduate and graduate students, so positions are normally very limited.

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