English as a Second Language (ESL)
Objectives
The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program at Lewis University provides intensive, academic English language learning at the Advanced Level for students whose native language is not English. The ESL Program prepares students to complete a university degree program successfully. It focuses on the academic skills encountered in university classrooms, as well as adjustment to and understanding of U.S. culture. The program requires three hours of instruction per three-credit course and at least one hour of home study, including computer lab work, for each hour in class. The ESL program provides admitted (or provisionally admitted) students an opportunity to enhance their English language skills. Undergraduate and graduate students take ESL advanced level courses in addition to other courses either required or elective.
Admission and Placement
International applicants seeking entrance into undergraduate and graduate programs must consult individual program requirements and the Office of Admission for updates on Lewis University admission policies and processes as well as expected English language competencies. Enrollment in advanced level ESL courses may be strongly recommended or even required. In consultation with the Office of Admission, students may also be fully admitted to Lewis University by earning a TOEFL score at or above 550 and by meeting all admission requirements for a specific degree program. An ESL Placement Examination is administered on or before the first day of class. The ESL Placement Examination is available in the Academic Services department.
The ESL Program is designed for students
1. who have completed a high school diploma or its equivalent in their home country or the U.S.;
2. who are preparing to enter a Lewis University degree program; and
3. whose TOEFL scores fall just below or just above 550; whose IBT scores fall just below or just above 79; whose IELTS scores fall just below or just above 6.0; and whose Stepeiken Eiken scores fall just below or just above Pre 1.
Program Completion and Continuing Enrollment
Advanced level courses are offered according to need. Students must complete ESL advanced level courses with a grade of “C” or above. The Director of the ESL Program verifies when an ESL student has achieved sufficient competency in English. Students who succeed in completing the advanced ESL courses and have the endorsement of the Director of the ESL Program will have the English proficiency required to enroll full-time in undergraduate and graduate programs.
University Credit
An advanced level ESL course earns university credit and may be applied to the 128 hours necessary to graduate from Lewis University.
The Curriculum
The English as a Second Language Program at the advanced level at Lewis University provides instruction in academic English for international students. Students complete daily home assignments, weekly assigned work in the computer lab, daily practice in conversation skills, and occasional outings in the community. Six advanced level courses focus on the following areas: reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar, and American culture.
Special Features of the ESL Program at Lewis University
The Lewis University ESL Program normally offers two sessions per year. Classes during the Fall and Spring semesters meet for 16 weeks each. To ensure individual attention for each student, class size is small, with 6 - 12 students enrolled in each course. All ESL classes are taught by experienced professional faculty with advanced degrees.
Students have access to several computer labs on campus with full Internet capability. Each student receives an e-mail account. Students may also use the Lewis Library, with 165,000 volumes and access to numerous databases. ESL students have all the privileges other Lewis University students enjoy. For instance, Lewis maintains a Student Fitness and Recreation Center at no cost to enrolled Lewis students, with indoor pool, track, exercise areas and weight rooms, and basketball / tennis / volleyball courts. All enrolled Lewis students have free admission to theater, choral, and musical performances, lecture and movie series, special presentations, and athletic events.
Advice on immigration and residence matters is available from the Office of International Student Services. Students may join the Lewis International Students Association, which assists students in daily life, shopping, and travel. It also hosts group trips and the Annual Lewis International Festival (speakers, performances, and food fest).
How to Apply
To apply to Lewis University, visit www.lewisu.edu/admissions/international. All official documents must be sent to Lewis University by express mail.