ENGLISH LANGUAGE COURSES AT UF IN THE CITY OF GAINESVILLE
Study English at the English Language Institute of the University of Florida in 2025 or 2026. Contact a representative to get a quote, to receive more information, and a pdf brochure
STUDY ENGLISH AT THE ELI OF UF
Enroll on the English Language Institute at the University of Florida, which has taught English as a second language programs since it first opened in 1954.
A FANTASTIC FULL-TIME INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
The Intensive English Program at the ELI of the University of Florida is an excelling ESL program with small classes, great teachers, and different levels of proficiency, for an enhanced English language learning.
STUDY ENGLISH IN AN OUTSTANDING LOCATION SUCH AS GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA
As part of your experience studying English at the ELI of UF, you will be living in Gainesville, Florida, a wonderful city full of great tourist attractions and activities you can do outside the classroom.
TOP 10 REASONS TO STUDY ENGLISH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
This is one of the most popular destination for international studentsAN EXCELLING ENGLISH PROGRAM AT UF
The Intensive English Program at the University of Florida is an excelling program specially designed for foreign students and has been taught for over 60 years.
AN OUTSTANDING FACULTY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
The teachers of the English programs at the English Language Institute are qualified professionals, with years of experience in ESL teaching.
SMALL CLASSES AT THE ENGLISH PROGRAM
Each class at the ELI is small, with an average of 12 students per class, for a more personalized experience.
SEVERAL LEVELS OF ESL INSTRUCTION
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced student, the English program at UF will place you with other students with similar skills and goals.
ACCREDITED ENGLISH PROGRAMS AT UF’S ELI
The Intensive English Program at UF’s ELI is accredited by the CEA (Commission on English Language Program Accreditation).
A TRUE COLLEGE EXPERIENCE AT UF
While you study English at the University of Florida, you will be able to live a true college experience, as classes are taught on campus.
A DIVERSE ON-CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT
Both the English Language Institute and the University of Florida have a diverse community of students and teachers who come from all over the US and the world.
AWESOME EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
You can participate in on-campus cultural and sport activities, to continue practicing your English outside the classroom and network with other students.
ACCESS TO FACILITIES INSIDE THE UF CAMPUS
You will be a regular full-time student at UF, so you will have access to different on-campus facilities.
A FANTASTIC LOCATION IN GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA
You can have lots of fun while studying English, since you will be living in Gainesville, Florida, a great location near lots of tourist attractions.
ENGLISH PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE INSTITUTEINTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAM (IEP)
The Intensive English Program at the English Language Institute (ELI) of the University of Florida, is a full-time program designed for all kinds of foreign students, who are looking to improve their language skills and cultural knowledge abroad. It has six different levels of proficiency; three different courses (reading/writing, listening/speaking and grammar), amounting to 23 hours of English-language instruction; and 7 or 8 and 14 or 15-week programs, to fit its students' tight schedules.
Main Features
- Full-Time Program
- Classes are on campus
- 23 hours per week (Monday-Friday)
- 6 levels from beginning (10) to advanced (60)
- 3 different courses: reading/writing, listening/speaking and grammar
- You can take several sessions until you achieve your English language goals
- Sessions of 7 or 8 and 14 or 15 weeks
- Optional elective classes (Business English, Conversation Strategies, and US Culture)
- 12 students per class in average
- Access to on-campus facilities
- Extra-curricular activities (movie nights, sport activities, trips to tourist spots, etc.)
- Certificate upon successful completion of the program
- Applies for F-1 student visa
Requirements
- Students need to be at least 17 years old the first day of classes. No maximum age.
- Students must have at least a tourist knowledge of English
- Students must have graduated from high school
More information about the intensive English program at UF
Check in and Placement Testing
All students must arrive on the check-in date, since they need to take a placement test, before starting classes. A US$100 late arrival fee will be charged if you miss the check-in session without notifying the ELI in advance, or if you do not attend the first week of classes.
Full-time Program Curriculum
Full-Time Enrollment (23 Hours Per Week)
- 10 hrs Reading/Writing
- 8 hrs Listening/Speaking
- 5 hrs Grammar
Alternate courses, such as Business English, and Conversation Strategies are available when enrollment allows.
Additional Courses (when enrollment allows)
- 5 hrs TOEFL per week
- 5 hrs Pronunciation per week for 6 weeks
- 5 hrs GRE/GMAT Preparation
- 5 hours Vocabulary
- 5 hrs English for Standardized Tests
Any or all of these courses may be added to full-time enrollment for an additional cost. These classes are available when enrollment allows.
Program Mission and Objectives
The main mission of the Intensive English Program at the English Language Institute of UF is to prepare students for both academic higher-education studies in the US and a professional environment in which English is mainly spoken. Thus, students will learn to:
- Read academic-level materials.
- Write academic papers and exams.
- Speak more fluently in both formal and informal contexts.
- Take notes at lectures in an effective and efficient manner.
- Take timed, objective tests.
- Function in North American culture to be able to establish and maintain relations with fellow students, professors, friends, and even other professionals from their own area of specialization.
Language Assistants -- PROVIDING STUDENTS WITH A "ONCE IN A WORLD" EXPERIENCE
The ELI of the University of Florida is, as far as we know, the only English Language Institute to offer Language Assistants as part of its Listening/Speaking course. Language Assistants are university-age fluent English speakers. Two Language Assistants are assigned to each Listening/Speaking class. They work with the Listening/Speaking teacher for each level to provide four hours a week of Speaking to practice the language learned in the class. They practice informal, conversational English and teach about U.S. culture. They take advantage of Florida's climate and meet in an atmosphere that promotes informal language practice. The Listening/Speaking teachers and Language Assistants plan different activities, language games, and discussions based on the needs and interests of the class.
In addition to aiding the Listening/Speaking teachers, every weekend, the Language Assistants lead trips outside of Gainesville as part of the ELI's Cultural Immersion Program. For these Weekend Activities, the Language Assistants act as sort of tour guides as the students explore beyond the ELI. The Language Assistants also lead Weekly Activities after classes to provide students with even more English practice. Finally, the Language Assistants also help students become involved in the Gainesville community through the Volunteer Program. The students come to rely on the Language Assistants as friends they can turn to while adapting to a new culture. They provide a myriad of opportunities for daily authentic language and culture experience.
The University of Florida English Language Institute offers intensive English programs that prepare students for using English in the real world. The programs are based on over 60 years of second language teaching experience and research. The faculty and staff are committed to providing the quality service and education you deserve. The ELI offers English instruction that prepares you for using English in an academic or professional context and the culture that is all around you.
The ELI is a self-supporting program of the University of Florida. It is intended to serve speakers of other languages and is dedicated to offering superior instruction and best possible occasions for practice, using current materials and techniques, and providing an ideal learning environment.
These goals are accomplished by a well-trained staff enthusiastically committed to the success of all learners, actively involved in meeting their needs, and unquestionably focused on functioning as a team for the greater good of all concerned.
Testimonies
Successful stories of international students from these English programs
Very amazing and interesting experience at ELI University of Florida, i learned a lot about different cultures, I met very nice people... UF is the perfect place to study English. It was a grand and unique experience.
Sarah K.
France
I met great people at the ELI and I have past the best time of my life in Gainesville. There are cool teachers like Todd Allen and Jen Ramos, I learned so much from them
Daniela V.
Venezuela
PRICES & DATES
Complete the contact form to get a quotePRICES AND DATES ENGLISH PROGRAMS 2025 - 2026
How much does it cost to study English at the University of Florida?Table with costs and dates of the English Program at UF 2025 - 2026
| Session | Dates | Duration | Program Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring C, 2024 | January 16 - April 26, 2024 (Placement Test: January 16) | 15 weeks | $4,725 |
| Spring B, 2024 | March 6 - April 26, 2024 (Placement Test: March 6) | 7 weeks | $2,640 |
| Summer C, 2024 | May 14 - August 9, 2024 (Placement Test: May 14) | 14 weeks | $3,445 |
| Summer B, 2024 | June 26 - August 9, 2024 (Placement Test: June 26) | 7 weeks | $2,310 |
| Fall C, 2024 | August 27 - December 6, 2024 (Placement Test: August 27) | 15 weeks | $4,725 |
| Fall B, 2024 | October 16 - December 6, 2024 (Placement Test: October 16) | 8 weeks | $2,640 |
For example if you want to study for approximately 7 months, you can enroll on the Fall C and Spring C sessions. You will not repeat the same course, because each session will be in a different level.
Other Costs to consider
On top of the program fee, there are additional costs that you should consider and are not included, which are:
- Application fee: a USD$125 non-refundable fee paid upon your application, which in part covers the delivery to your home country of the Form I-20 via certified post mail, which is needed to apply for the student visa.
- 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 I-901 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 in Gainesville: since you will be living and studying abroad, you should consider certain housing costs. Down below you can read some of the options UF 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 UF, and costs approximately USD$200 per month.
- Books and supplies: these materials are not included within your tuition fees and cost around US$200 in average.
- Flight Tickets from your country to Gainesville, USA
- Food: how much you'll spend on food will depend on where you eat. You can try cooking at home or eating on campus.
- Student ID: a US$15 fee to cover the student ID you'll be using around campus.
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 FLORIDA
All the application process is online. Follow the instructions belowSteps 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 ufloridavivecampus.com
Documents needed to apply
1. Application Form
Download and complete the application form. Do not forget to sign the form.
Download Form and Instructions2. 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. Copy of High School Diploma
Proof of secondary school completion that is equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma.
4. Financial Verification
As part of the application process, you need a bank letter or bank statement showing that you or your sponsor have at least enough funds to cover the “estimated total expense” of the program. It 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. Flight tickets are not included in this estimation.
Bank document must show at least the following amount per program:
- Spring C (15 weeks): USD$10,760
- Spring B (7 weeks): USD$6,190
- Summer C (14 weeks): USD$8,230
- Summer B (7 weeks): USD$5,495
- Fall C (15 weeks): USD$10,760
- Fall B (8 weeks): USD$6,570
5. Application Fee
Non-refundable application fee of $125 dollars paid to the The English Language Institute. After receiving confirmation from one of our representatives, you must pay the application fee online, following the instructions mentioned by the representative.
Send your application documents
A representative needs to check all your documents are correct.
Your application documents must be sent to ufloridavivecampus.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 we have received all your application documents and you have paid the application fee, you will be contacted by the admission office within 2 weeks.
If you are applying for a full-time program, you will need an F-1 student visa. After you have been accepted in the program, the admission office will send you the acceptance documents plus the form I-20, needed to apply for the F-1 student visa.
3. Visa Processing
Please check with us what type of visa you need, depending on the program you are interested in at UF.
- If the program you are applying for is a full-time program (18hrs/week or more), you will need the F-1 student visa. With an F-1 visa you can extend your stay in the United States as long as you continue studying.
- If your program is less than 18 hours a week, you will have to travel to the U.S. as a tourist with a B1/B2 tourist visa or visa waiver ESTA. As a tourist, you can only stay in the U.S. the time period your tourist visa allows, since your main purpose in the U.S. should be tourism.
Please check the website of the U.S. embassy of your country to see the steps you need to apply for a visa.
Generally, for a F-1 student visa, students must do the following:
- Complete the DS-160 form
- Schedule an appointment at the U.S. embassy
- Pay for the F-1 student visa (approx. US$160)
- Pay for the I-901 SEVIS Fee (approx. US$350): https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.html
- Go to the embassy on the scheduled day
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/
4. Payment
Next, you need to make full payment of all remaining fees, which is due by the third day of classes and can be done by credit card (online or in person), travelers check and money order. You will receive more information regarding dates once you begin the application process. Personal checks or cash are not accepted.
5. Arrival at School
You should arrive the first day for the placement test, registration and orientation week. Classes will start between 3 to 5 days after the placement test. 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, bank statement, and complete immunization form.
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 programSOCIAL, CULTURAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN GAINESVILLE AND ACTIVITIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
Most of the activities are free!ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO KEEP IMPROVING YOUR ENGLISH OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM IS BY PARTICIPATING IN SOCIAL, CULTURAL, SPORT AND OTHER ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA.
International students can participate in activities as:
- Conversation Partner Program
- Weekly sports
- Volunteer Program
- Fun weekly activities
- Weekend trips to local tourist spots
As a student at the University of Florida, you will have the opportunity of joining different fun activities, on which you can meet other people, practice your English, learn more about American culture, and even network with fellow professionals. You can join the Conversation Partner Program, to chat with students who are native English speakers; or the Volunteer Program, to help the community and practice your English at the same time. There are also weekly sports you can practice with other fellow students or fun activities to socialize and meet new people. Finally, there are weekend trips to local tourist spots, such as Walt Disney World and the Kennedy Space Center, or you can even go canoeing.
Information about the city of Gainesville, Florida
With a population of more than 110,000, Gainesville combines a friendly, small-town atmosphere with many big services. It has five golf courses, museums, theaters, and a performing arts center featuring internationally renowned entertainers. Its tree-shaded roads and miles of bicycle paths make it an ideal place for joggers and other athletes.
With its moderate climate, Gainesville and its surrounding areas contain many beautiful parks, lakes and springs that offer year-round recreational opportunities. Located in the North Central Florida county of Alachua, Gainesville provides convenient access to the state's major cities. It is only a two-hour drive from Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville, permitting one-day excursions to attractions such as Disney World, Sea World, Busch Gardens, the Jacksonville Zoo, as well as Florida's gulf and Atlantic beaches.
Some of the tourist attractions you can discover in Gainesville are:
- Cade Museum For Creativity & Inventions
- Gainesville Artisan Guild Gallery
- Loblolly Woods Nature Park
- Florida Museum of Natural History
- Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation
- Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Information about University of Florida
The University of Florida is one of the preeminent universities in the United States. It attracts students from all 50 states and from 100 countries. The University of Florida is a comprehensive university, offering degrees in most known fields of study. The campus extends over 800 hectares. It employs more than 4000 faculty members and trains more than 42,000 students at one time. The campus contains several restaurants and cafeterias, four pools (one Olympic-size indoor, three outdoor), four gymnasiums and fitness centers, four art galleries, many auditoriums, 10 libraries, and offices that provide legal, mental, career and health advisement, and other services to students. The ELI is an integral part of the University of Florida, and ELI students have access to university facilities, including the infirmary, libraries and recreational areas.
Facts about UF:
- It has the world's largest citrus research center
- In UF you can find the largest computing center in the south of the United States
- Ranked by the US News and World Report at number 7 among public universities
- UF has helped launch more then 190 startups in 15 years
- Home of the world-famous Gatorade sports drink
Photos of the English Programs at the University of Florida
Videos of the English Programs at the University of Florida
HOUSING IN GAINESVILLE
Most common housing options for international students in GainesvilleSTUDENTS FROM THE INTENSIVE ENGLISH PROGRAM AT UF HAVE SEVERAL HOUSING OPTIONS IN GAINESVILLE:
Gainesville is full of student-centered apartment complexes and we are sure you will find somewhere comfortable to liveMost international students choose to live in apartments in Gainesville
During check-in week the ELI Team help you find student apartments and understand leases and utilities. Many apartments and housing complexes are located within walking distance of the ELI or on bus routes convenient to campus. ELI also help you find shopping and bus transportation in Gainesville. You should expect to pay between $600-$800 USD per month for housing and utilities. Most student apartments have a private bedroom and bathroom, and a common living area and kitchen. You need to buy utensils, cookware and bedding. Private apartments for families are available. On-campus dormitories are not available.
Most apartment complexes require full payment of rent by check or money order on or before the due date. Late payments usually incur late fees. Some complexes will take credit cards.The ELI will assist you in understanding all your lease requirements.
Most student apartment complexes have "individual leases." This means that students pay for their own bedrooms (and sometimes bathrooms) individually and share a living room and kitchen with 1-3 roommates. Furniture is included in most of the apartments we recommend, as well as utilities.
FINDING A PLACE TO LIVE, DEPENDS EXCLUSIVELY ON THE STUDENT.
There are many options available near the campus of the University of Florida. Students must contact directly the housing provider.
FAQS
Do you have any question about studying English at UF?FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT STUDYING ENGLISH IN UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
If you do not find the answer, please contact a representative filling the form belowWhat is the English Language Institute at the University of Florida?
Founded in 1954, the English Language Institute at the University of Florida has since offered intensive English programs for international students. It has a prestigious faculty, a great curriculum, awesome activities, and a diverse environment.
Why should I study in Gainesville and enroll on the Intensive English Program at the University of Florida?
Gainesville is a beautiful city, close to major tourist attractions and other bigger cities. You'll be able to network with other professionals and make new friends, while you have lots of fun outside the classroom.
On the other hand, the Intensive English Program at the University of Florida has great teachers, small class sizes, and it's accredited by the CEA (Commission on English Language Program Accreditation), so its high quality is more than guaranteed.
I am not currently a student in my country. Can I still study English with an F-1 student visa at UF?
Yes, you can. You only need to apply for a student visa, for which there's no need for you to be a student beforehand.
Does the English Language Institute at the University of Florida offer scholarships?
There's an scholarship for those who will study a second session, which covers the tuition fee of said term.
Which are the different steps of the application process for the F-1 student visa to study English at UF?
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 The English Language Institute at the University of Florida. 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/
Do the English language courses at the University of Florida have any comments or reviews?
Every year, all types of foreign students enroll on the Intensive English Program at the University of Florida, which offers a diverse environment, great lessons, a highly-qualified faculty, on-campus activities, and top-quality facilities. This is why the English courses at UF have great comments and reviews from their former students.
These English courses are taught in the campus of the University of Florida?
Yes, classes are taught in the campus of the University of Florida.
Are students given a certificate after completing these English programs at UF?
Yes, completion certificates are awarded to all students who meet the attendance and grades requirements.
How is my English language proficiency assessed?
On your first week at UF, you'll take a placement test to assess your current English language proficiency.
How many levels does the Intensive English Program at UF have?
There are 6 different levels, from Beginning to Advanced.
What's the average amount of students per class?
There are 12 students per class in average.
Can I access on-campus facilities and services at the University of Florida?
Yes, you can access libraries, computer labs, the health center, and different advising services. You can also pay an additional fee to have open access to sport facilities.
What's the minimum age requirement for the English courses at UF?
Students must be 17 years of age the first day at school. They must also be high school graduates. Moreover, a parent or legal guardian must sign the Waiver of Liability and the Immunization Form.
Do I need to submit English proficiency test scores or transcripts to enroll on the English courses at UF?
No, there's no need to submit any documents. However, you must have graduated from school.
Can I use a tourist visa to enroll on the Intensive English Program at the University of Florida?
No, since it's a full time English program, and you'll need an F-1 Student Visa.
Is health insurance mandatory to learn English at the University of Florida?
Yes, you must have health insurance to be able to study English at UF.
Are books included within the tuition fee?
No, books are not included. You should spend around US$200 in textbooks, which you'll buy once you arrive at UF.
Do I have to pay an application fee to enroll on the English programs?
Yes, a US$125 application fee.
When is the program paid? Which payment methods can I use?
You must pay once you arrive at the school. You can pay by credit card (online or in person), travelers check and money order. Cash or personal checks are not accepted.
Can I work and study at the same time while I'm enrolled on the Intensive English Program at UF?
Yes, you can work up to 20 hours per week, inside the school campus. These jobs are normally really limited, since you'll be competing with other UF graduate and undergraduate students.
Do I have to submit an immunization form to apply?
Yes, you must provide proof of immunization for: tuberculosis, MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), Hepatitis B, and MCV4 (Menactra/Menveo).
Do students under 18 years of age need a guardian to study English at UF?
No, they only need for their parents or legal guardian to sign the Immunization Form and the Waiver of Liability.
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