UCIEP: University- and College-Intensive English Programs

What Is UCIEP?

UCIEP is a consortium of 67 University- and College-governed Intensive English Programs (IEPs) in the United States. Established in 1967 by leaders in the field of English as a second language, UCIEP's purpose is the advancement of professional standards and quality instruction in intensive English programs at U.S. universities and colleges. The member programs are committed to the consortium's effort to ensure that students receive the highest quality intensive English instruction from trained, professional teachers.

Why Study at a UCIEP Program?

UCIEP guidelines ensure UCIEP programs are among the best in the United States. Each program underwent a rigorous application process, including a site visit by an external reviewer, before being accepted. Every five years each must submit a substantial self-study document to an evaluation committee which reviews it to verify that the program continues to meet the standards of UCIEP.

UCIEP programs maintain the highest standards in English language programs, while serving the needs of a wide variety of students. There are UCIEP members in 31 states and the District of Columbia, in densely populated metropolitan areas and in small rural communities, integrated into large research universities as well as small private colleges. The diversity of UCIEP universities, colleges and programs ensures that you will be able to find a UCIEP program which is right for you.

How do you find the UCIEP program right for you?

Visit the UCIEP website at www.uciep.org. In reading the profiles you will find an amazing diversity in structure and approach. Parents, sponsors, and students are sure to find among these programs one or more that match their preferences. The fact that the institutions are UCIEP members ensures that students will also find the language instruction, facilities, and supportive environment necessary to have a rich and rewarding educational experience.

Basic information on each UCIEP program is provided on our site (www.uciep.org). In addition, you will find individual contact information for each of the programs, including the e-mail and phone number for the person in each program who will help you gain admission.

Please Contact Us. Your e-mail will be sent to the directors of all 67 UCIEP programs. This is a great way to collect information on a number of excellent programs which will meet your needs.

What do students have to say about UCIEP programs?

"Coming to the ELI was a great experience for me.  Besides improving my proficiency in English, I had the chance to make friends from all around the world!" - Denise Moreno, Venezuela  

"Five years later, I still miss KU, the AEC classes and all the people I met there...Actually, that year was really the best of my life. Go there, you'll see, it's wonderful!" - Laurence Naccarato, France

"Academic English Studies courses not only improved my English, but also helped me learn about American culture."  - Chihiro Abe, Japan

“The ELI opened a window to another life that I had never thought possible before.” - Bruna Cavalcanti, Brazil

"Excellent people, cool places. A great and unforgettable experience!" - Anibal Ruiz, Spain

“I think CESL is a great place to study English because the teachers are excellent.” - David Molina, Mexico

"I found everything that I wanted for my English study at Lewis & Clark: great teachers, a great environment, and a distinguished program."  - Suk Woo Han, South Korea

“I think CESL is a place where you can improve your English language with great support from teachers and their teaching techniques.” - Ahmad AbuLaban, Palestine

UCIEP’S Mission:

UCIEP's mission is to promote excellence in IEP administration, curriculum, and instruction by (1) establishing guidelines for member programs, (2) encouraging and sponsoring professional development as well as cooperation and communication among member programs, and (3) and advocating on behalf of member programs, the organization, and the field of teaching English as a second language.