English Language Institute
English Language Institute
University of Hartford
200 Bloomfield Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06117
Campus location: Auerbach 220
Phone: 860.768.4399
Email: eliinfo@hartford.edu
The English Language Institute (ELI) at the University of Hartford offers a comprehensive academic program designed for international students who need to improve their English language skills.
Students receive 22 hours of instruction per week in the classroom and the Resource Center/ELI Language Lab. This is supplemented by work in private tutorial sessions and through independent study using the updated technology available in the Language Lab. Courses emphasize oral/aural skills, reading comprehension, vocabulary development, grammar usage, and writing skills development.
Classes are small, and students are placed according to the results of entry tests taken during the ELI orientation program the first day of the semester. The ELI has proven to be an excellent transition from studying in one's native language to full-time academic work in English. In addition to improving language skills, the ELI provides the necessary background in United States academic protocols and American culture.
Apply for ELI
Interested in studying English as a Second Language through ELI? A separate application and tuition fee are required for the program. Visit the International Admission site for the application and tuition information.
Programs and Registration
The ELI offers three semesters of instruction each year. The fall and spring terms each are 15 weeks long, beginning in late August and ending in mid-May. There is a four-week semester break from mid-December until mid-January. Two six-week summer sessions are offered from mid-May to mid-August. Students should consult the academic calendar in order not to arrive before campus facilities are open. ELI classes are separated into the following levels:
Level I: Low-Intermediate Proficiency
Students in this level usually study for three or four semesters before achieving proficiency suitable for academic study. (TOEFL 400+ PBT / 30 iBT)
Level 2: High-Intermediate Proficiency
Students in this level usually study for two or three semesters before achieving proficiency appropriate for academic study. Note-taking and test-taking practices are given at this level. (TOEFL 450+ PBT / 45-46 iBT or successful completion of ESL 051)
Level 3: Advanced Proficiency
Advanced students usually study for one or two semesters before beginning academic study. Eligible students participate in the Academic Challenge Program (admission by placement test) where they take one academic course for credit. This course is considered part of the students' full time program. (TOEFL 500+ PBT / 61 iBT or successful completion of ESL 052)
Registration begins in April for the fall semester and November for the spring semester. Summer term registration begins in mid-February. Calendar dates are subject to change.
Academic Calendar
Course Catalog
Weekly Class Schedule
Classes meet Monday–Thursday, 8:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.*, and Friday 8:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
The ELI Language Lab, located in Hillyer 255, is open daily after classes (Monday–Thursday, 2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.; Friday 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.) for individual study, elective instruction in conversation and American culture, and TOEFL practice.
* Students on F-1 visas must study all day.
Students in the English Language Institute have the opportunity to share cross-cultural experiences and participate in typical American activities such as picnics, barbecues, campus musical and theatrical performances, sports events, and out-of-town trips to such places as New York City and Boston.
Of equal importance is the rich and diversified cultural heritage international students bring to the University of Hartford community. Each spring, during the International Week, students broaden horizons of the community through a festival including native country exhibits, a food bazaar and international potluck dinner, and a parade in native dress.
Language courses for international professionals are also available through ELI. Courses are tailored to group needs with the focus on the development of good communication skills in English - fluid and effective speech, clear and direct writing, and persuasive public presentations.
Special program tuition and fees will vary according to course needs.
Miguel Angel Jimenez, SpainI have lived some of the best moments in my life studying in the University of Hartford. It’s a great opportunity to live with people from other cultures. … It’s pretty cool to know that my year abroad wasn't only for learning English, it was also a great experience to learn about other cultures, and grow into a better person.