English Language Programs at UCI

Learn Essential English Communication Skills

UCI's English Language Programs give you the skills to succeed in the global community. Choose the option that will help you reach your goals:

Intensive ESL: 10-week CEA-accredited course
Online ESL: 30-hour online course focused on building fundamental language skills

Please note that you are required to obtain a student visa (F-1) to study full-time, on campus. You may study part-time with a tourist (B-1/B-2) visa or other visa status that allows for part-time study if you are not enrolled in more than 17 hours of classes per week.

Did you know?

UCI also offers Accelerated Certificate Programs to help you get ahead in your career? ACPs are specialized post-graduate programs that balance theory and practice with an emphasis on real-world experience. Learn more about our on-campus and remote options.

Great reasons to enroll in an English Language Program at UCI

Learn in small, interactive classes

Receive personalized attention with individual or small group tutoring

Choose the program that fits your needs, depending on your goals

Learn from instructors with master-level degrees and international experience

Live in the safest city ranked by FBI for over a decade

Study at our world-renowned university located in iconic Southern California, a dynamic U.S. business environment

Learning Options

Whether improving your conversational, academic or business skills, our portfolio has flexible options for every learner.

Intensive ESL

Online Courses

Prepare for university-level study, career advancement, or for the accomplishment of personal goals in our CEA-accredited, academically oriented 10-Week Intensive English as a Second Language Program.

Advance your skills in upper-level elective classes in topics such as idioms, advanced pronunciation, advanced conversation, business English, advanced vocabulary, advanced grammar, and iBT and IELTS preparation
Practice your English and learn about campus life with a UCI undergraduate friend through conversation
Prepare to score higher on the TOEFL and IELTS tests
Available to students 17 years and older at all levels of English proficiency

Take advantage of expert UCI instruction from the comfort of your home to continue improving your English language ability.

Fully-online courses are instructor led, include three optional, live Zoom sessions per course, and do not require a textbook
Focus on real communication with authentic use of English through engaging lessons
Work on your grammar, writing, speaking and listening from anywhere in the world
Recommended for learners from high school and up

Success Through Academics and Research (STAR)

For students looking to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate’s degree in the United States and want to benefit from expert guidance and assistance in the process.

Learn more about STAR

Why choose UC Irvine?

UCI is renowned for its strength as a major research university. Its world-renowned reputation has also attracted faculty members from the top of their fields, including three Nobel Prize winners.
We are located in a dynamic U.S. business environment and in one of the most beautiful and engaging regions in Southern California — famously known as "The O.C."

Testimonial

I learned a lot in 3 unforgettable quarters. To give you an idea, I couldn't speak a word of English when I arrived in the U.S. The classes are interesting and easy to pay attention to. It's a great program that can truly prepare international students to learn a second language.

Joao De Barros | Brazil

10-Week Intensive ESL

Are you ready to take the next step in your career at UCI?

Expand your career options by enrolling in an international program at UCI — where you’ll develop the skills, knowledge, and network you need to expand your horizons and opportunities.

Learn More