Prospective Students Current Students Faculty & Staff Alumni GMU Community

        Frequently Asked Questions About the ELI

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ#1: How does the ELI decide about my level?

Answer #1: All new students are required to take the ELI placement test so that their level of English proficiency can be assessed. Students are placed in Core and Oral Communication Skills (OCS) classes based on placement test results. Changes in Core and OCS class placement can be made with the recommendation of the instructor, after the student has been observed in class for at least one week.

FAQ#2: Do I have to take every level at the ELI?

Answer #2: Students are not required to take every level at the ELI. Language learning is a very personal, individual process and some students learn English faster than other students. ELI students occasionally skip levels. The decision to allow a student to skip a level is based on the student's course grades, assessed proficiency level, and the recommendation of the instructors.

FAQ#3: How long will it take me to complete the ELI program?

Answer #3: There is no set length of time to complete the ELI program. The length of time that a student spends in the program depends on the initial level that he/she is assigned to and the progress made each session. A student who arrives at the ELI with a relatively advanced level of English proficiency may spend only one or two sessions at the ELI. A student who arrives with a relatively low level of English proficiency may need to study at the ELI for three or four sessions, or perhaps even longer.

FAQ#4: When I complete the ELI program, will I be admitted to George Mason University?

Answer #4: Since the ELI is a university based intensive English program, it admits students who can ultimately be admitted to an American university or community college. However, admission to the ELI and completion of the ELI program does not guarantee admission to George Mason University. ELI students must still apply for admission to the University for a degree granting undergraduate or graduate program. The ELI does provide advisors to work with students who want to apply for admission to an academic program. The advisors guide the students through the application process and provide follow-up assistance for students who have submitted their applications but who are experiencing difficulties with the process.

FAQ#5: Do ELI students receive academic credits for their ELI classes?

Answer #5: ELI classes are non-credit. Students receive a certificate of attendance at the completion of each session. ELI students who have been permitted to take academic classes as part of their course work will receive academic credits if they successfully complete the academic classes.

FAQ#6: Will the ELI help me find housing?

Answer #6: University housing at George Mason University is very popular. Students are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis and there is often a waiting list. If you are interested in living in university housing, you should contact the ELI office for detailed information on the housing application process. You can email the office <eli@gmu.edu> or phone us at 703-993-3660.



English Language Institute
MSN 4C4
George Mason University
4400 University Drive
Fairfax, VA
22030-4444 USA
E-mail:
Fax: (703) 993-3664
Phone: (703) 993-3660
Site Last Updated:
February 8, 2008
Contact: