University of Colorado Denver

1. What is this new ESL Academy?

   The ESL Academy is an intensive English language program designed to prepare international students to study at American universities. The Academy offers high-quality, year-round ESL instruction specifically designed for academic preparation. The curriculum will help students improve their language skills through a rigorous program of study, campus involvement, and cultural and educational activities.

   The approach is rigorous. Full-time students are in classes 4-5 hours a day (20-25 hours per week) and are assigned several hours of homework each day. Five levels of instruction are offered: High Beginning, Low Intermediate, Intermediate, High Intermediate, and Advanced, with each level requiring an 8-week term to complete. Students in all levels are required to take required Core Courses. Core Courses include Listening/Speaking, Reading/Writing, and Grammar.

2. What makes the University of Colorado Denver’s ESL Academy different from other ESL programs?

   The University of Colorado Denver’s English as a Second Language (ESL) Academy offers you a rich diversity of academic, social, and cultural opportunities that are further enhanced by its location in the city of Denver – a unique, scenic, and desirable urban location that is also just minutes from the majestic Rocky Mountains.

   Our program offers the following distinctives and advantages when compared against other programs:

   • The curriculum is designed especially for university-bound students. In addition to mastering academic English, students will learn how to succeed academically at the University of Colorado Denver.
   • Students in the ESL Academy will be considered University of Colorado Denver students. They will be on the university campus from day one of our program and will be eligible to live in university housing, though there will be limited available for students who join our program mid-term.
   • Students will have access to all of the activities and resources that the university has to offer, not to mention the spectacular outdoors and urban life that Denver and Colorado have to offer.
   • Students may be allowed to take one or two regular academic courses that count towards fulfillment of CU Denver degree requirements once they achieve a measure of English proficiency.
   • When a student completes the ESL Academy successfully, he/she will automatically fulfill the University of Colorado Denver’s English language proficiency requirement and will be eligible for full admission.
   • Students will be issued a Form I-20 from the University of Colorado Denver for a seamless immigration experience and will not have to transfer their immigration status to begin their degree program upon complete of the ESL Academy.
   • Students will benefit from a seamless transition to university degree programs after they successfully complete the ESL Academy, thus maximizing the prospects of their success.

3. Where is the ESL Academy located?

   The ESL Academy is part of the University of Colorado Denver and is located adjacent to the University in newly renovated space​ right along 16th Street Mall in the heart of downtown Denver. Since you will spend over 20 hours per week in this space, it is designed not only to facilitate instruction, but also to be warm and inviting. It is intended to be your space – a home away from home that facilitates your connection with other students in the Academy, with the University of Colorado Denver, and with the city of Denver community.

1. How do I apply to the ESL Academy?

   The application process can be completed online. You will find detailed instructions here.

2. Does my admission to the ESL Academy guarantee I will also be admitted to a degree program at CU Denver?

   No. Admission to the ESL Academy does not constitute admission to any academic program at the University of Colorado Denver, nor does it guarantee future admission. A separate application must be submitted to apply to an academic program at the University of Colorado Denver. Students who successfully complete the ESL Program may waive the TOEFL/IELTS requirement.

1. I need more information about what happens upon my arrival for the start of the ESL Academy.

   You can find detailed pre-arrival and arrival information here.

2. What kind of housing options are available for me?

   On-Campus

   As an ESL student, you have the option to live in the Campus Village Apartments (CVA), our student housing. By living on campus, you can participate in special programming, seminars, and activities – all designed to improve your experience at the university. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with both domestic and international students and practice your English! Research has shown that students who live on campus are more connected to other students, faculty, and staff, are more involved in campus life, and are more successful in their academic pursuits than students who do not. Make the most of your time in the ESL Academy and find out more about student housing, available options, and costs online at the CU Denver Housing Web site.

   Off-Campus

   If you are interested in living off-campus, you can visit the Commuter Services Web site for assistance. You will find information on rental agreements, how to find off-campus housing in the Denver metropolitan area, and other tips to help you get settled in Denver.

3. Am I required to have health insurance while I am enrolled in the ESL Academy?

   Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for all ESL students with an F-1 or J-1 visa. The premium for coverage will be added to your student account each term. All dependents also have the option of choosing the plan offered through the University of Colorado Denver, but must be enrolled within 30 days of arrival in the United States. You must submit proof of health insurance that complies to University standard requirements. For more information on the policy, please visit the Student Health Insurance Web site

4. What kind of visa do I need?

   Most ESL students will enter the US in F-1 visa status, but some may use the J-1 visa. In either case, the University of Colorado Denver will issue you the Form I-20 or Form DS-2019, as appropriate.

   Upon your admission to the ESL Academy at the University of Colorado Denver, you will be assigned and contacted by an International Services Coordinator who will be available to assist you with any immigration-related questions you might have.

1. How will you determine whether I will begin the ESL Academy at the Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced level?

   During the orientation program before you begin classes, you will be required to take a placement test. Based on the results of the test, you will be placed in the appropriate classes and levels.

2. How will you determine when I am promoted to the next level?

   At the end of each 8-week term, students are tested. Promotion to the next level is based on a combination of three factors: grades, teacher recommendations, and the test score.

1. When do classes start?

   The ESL Academy includes five 8-week terms each year for full-time ESL students. The 2012 and select 2013 Academy dates are listed below:

   2012 ESL Academy Calendar
   Term	Dates
   Spring I	January 12th - March 9th
   Spring II	March 9th - May 4th
   Summer	May 31st - July 27th
   Fall I	August 16th - October 12th
   Fall II	October 18th - December 14th
   Note: We are no longer accepting applications for the Spring I, Spring II, and Summer 2012 terms.

   2013 ESL Academy Calendar
   Term	Dates
   Spring I	January 10th - March 8th
   Spring II	March 14th - May 10th
   Summer	June 6th - August 2nd
   Fall I	August 15th - October 4th
   Fall II	October 10th - December 6th

1. How much does the ESL Academy cost?

   The ESL Academy​ at CU Denver is an exceptional value. The rigorous academic program, outstanding international student services, and low tuition fees compare favorably with other Denv​er-based ESL programs.

   Expense	Each 8-week Term*
   Tuition	$2,875
   Student Fees**	$150
   Health Insurance	$233.50
   Books	$150
   Living Expenses	$2,457
   Total:	$5,865.50

   * All costs above are based upon taking five courses per 8-week term.

   ** The Student Fees enable ESL students to secure a CU Denver student ID and have access to the Auraria Library, recreational facilities, and other campus programs and activities.

   *** All students under F-1 or J-1 status are required to have health insurance while attending the CU Denver ESL Academy. The cost above is for individual coverage. The premiums are higher if you need to include a spouse and/or other family member(s).

   **** Students should add $4,500 per year for each dependent family member (spouse and/or unmarried children under the age of 21) who will accompany them to the United States.

If you have additional questions, please send an email to esl@ucdenver.edu or call 303.315.2383.