ESL Programs
The Best Option For You!
English Language Programs at GovState
GovState offers a range of English language programs designed to meet the needs of international students and community members at every level.
Our programs include:
- Intensive English Program — A full-time, immersive program for students looking to rapidly build English proficiency.
- Part-Time English Program — A flexible option for students and community members balancing other commitments while developing their English skills.
- TOEFL iBT Preparation — A focused course designed to prepare students for the TOEFL iBT exam and improve test performance.
- Private Tutoring — One-on-one instruction tailored to your individual goals, schedule, and learning needs.
Not sure which program is right for you? GovState's English language advisors are happy to help you find the best fit.ing
Program Type
Intensive English Program
Part-time English Program (For qualified students only)
TOEFL Test Preparation Seminar
Private Tutoring
Hours per week
18 hours per week
5+ hours
9+ hours
Hours vary
4 core (mandatory) courses for full-time students
- Listening, Speaking & Grammar
- Reading and Vocabulary
- Writing & Grammar
- Multimodal literacy
LEVELS
Level
5
4
3
2
1
CEFR
B1+
B1
A2
A1+
A1
CEFR Goal
B2
B1+
B1
A2
A1+
* The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
FEATURES
- 18 hours of classroom instruction
- On campus events and excursions to Chicago and other Illinois cultural and geographical sites
- Governors State University campus facilities - cafeteria, gym, clubs, and more!
- English Proficiency Test (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS) scores waived by GSU who completed all the ELLC levels!
TUITION
F1/J1 STUDENTS TUITIONS = $7,000/SEMESTER INCLUDING:
- Tuition for 3 classes
- Textbooks
- Placement and exit tests
- GSU Gym and Library
- Parking
- Academic and cultural advising
International student health insurance will be charged to your account by Office of International Services, starting Fall Semester 2023
Residents or Non-student visa holders can take 1-3 courses with flexible scheduling (5-18 hours) and resident-tuition rate.
PART-TIME TUITION FOR RESIDENTS & COMMUNITY MEMBERS (*NOT ELIGIBLE FOR F-1/J-1 STATUS)
COURSES
Listening & Speaking
Reading & Vocabulary
Writing and Grammar
Multimodal Literacy
Placement and Exit Test
TUITION
$1,375
$1,375
$2,220
$550
$70
ELLC Payment Policy:
- ELLC students will be responsible for $5,500 tuition on the first day of the semester, and
- Students are responsible to make a full payment by the 4th day of the classes or make a payment plan with GSU Business Office.
ELLC Refund Policy:
- 100% refund will be issued If withdrawn by the end of the first week of the class,
- 50% refund will be issued if withdrawn by the end of the 2nd week of class, and
- No refund will be issued after 2nd week.
DATES
Semester
Fall 2025
Spring 2026
Summer 2026
Fall 2026
Spring 2027
Summer 2027
Dates
August 25, 2025 - December 4, 2025
January 20, 2026 - May 7, 2026
May 18, 2026 - August 13, 2026
August 31, 2026 - December 10, 2026
January 19, 2027 - May 6, 2027
May 17, 2027 - August 12, 2027
Sample Schedule
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
AM
Reading & Vocabulary
Reading & Vocabulary
PM
Writing & Grammar
Listening & Speaking
Writing & Grammar
Listening & Speaking
*There is a possibility that the schedule may change.
Contact Information
- Dr. Akiko Ota, Director, English Language Learning and Educational Partnerships
- 708-534-3143
- aota@govst.edu