Global Education
- International Admissions
- Intensive English Program (IEP)
- International Exchange Programs
- English Language Support

Intensive English Program

Intensive English Program (IEP)

The Intensive English Program at Marywood University is designed for international students and non-native English speakers who want to improve their English for academic success and everyday life. Offered in the spring, summer, and fall semesters, the program combines high quality instruction with real-world learning and individualized support.

Program Highlights:

Small Class Sizes: With an average of 12 students per class, participants receive personalized attention and more opportunities for interaction and practice.
Experienced, Supportive Faculty: Our instructors specialize in teaching English as a second language and are committed to helping students reach their goals with encouragement and guidance at every step.
No IELTS Required for Admission Students who successfully complete the IEP may apply directly to Marywood degree programs without submitting an IELTS or other English proficiency test scores.
Flexible, Student-Centered Approach: Lessons are adapted to meet each student’s level, pace, and learning style. This ensures meaningful progress and increased confidence in communication.

What You'll Learn:

The IEP focuses on building practical English skills for academic and social settings through hands-on activities, group work, and one-on-one feedback.

Academic Writing: Students learn to read academic texts, expand vocabulary, and write clear, structured essays and paragraphs.
Listening and Pronunciation Courses: emphasize real-world listening—from conversations to lectures—while helping students improve pronunciation, stress, and intonation.
Public Speaking and Presentations: Students build confidence in speaking through class discussions, topic research, and formal presentations.

Throughout the program, students receive regular feedback and support in a welcoming environment that encourages growth and prepares them for university studies or professional advancement.

Cost and Options

Financial aid is not available for students studying in the IEP program at Marywood. When applying to the IEP program, a Certification of Finances form must accompany the IEP application and include a bank statement showing proof of sufficient funds. The level of assured financial support for full time study in Marywood's Intensive English Program must total a minimum of $27,500 USD for the Spring and Fall Semesters. A student who wishes to study during the summer semester must certify an additional $12,800 USD.

Estimated expenses are based on 24 hours per week of instructional time for the academic year. The summer semester is outlined in the second column.

Academic Costs: 2025-2026 Academic Year

	Fall+Spring	Summer	12 Month
Tuition	14,000	6,000	20,000
Living	10,500	5,250	15,750
Books, Supplies, Insurance	3,500*	800**	3,500
Total	$28,000	$12,050	$39,250

*One Year (1/13/2025-12/13/2025)
**Summer Only (5/19/25-8/17/25)

IEP Structure and Program Design

IEP Structures

During the program, students will study academic English (reading, writing, grammar, listening, and speaking). Additionally, students will complete courses in research skills, critical thinking, study skills, and programs designed for immersion into U.S. culture. Upon completion of the IEP, students can enroll in one of many distinctive degree options and specializations.

The Intensive English Program (IEP) prepares international students for the academic demands of studying in an American university. In addition to an academic purpose, the IEP is designed for students who want to improve their English proficiency for business communication, careers, and culture.

All students will take an English proficiency exam and be placed in the appropriate level based on their scores.

The program is structured into three levels: level 1 (Beginning), level 2 (Intermediate), and level 3 (Advanced). Each level is 16 weeks during the fall or spring semester. The summer semester is 10 weeks with more contact time each week. Students will be assessed every four weeks to ensure they are making adequate progress. The first assessment and progress monitoring will be in week 4, followed by our mid-term exams, a 3rd quarter progress check, and the final exam at the end of the semester.

Program Design

The IEP calendar is aligned with Marywood’s academic schedule for the fall and spring semesters.

Based on placement results, students will enter one of the following levels:

Students who test into the (Beginning level) will take approximately 3 semesters to matriculate
Students who test into the (Intermediate level) will take approximately 2 semesters to matriculate
Students who test into the (Advanced level) will take approximately 1 semester to matriculate

1ST SEMESTER Beginning Level

Reading and Writing I (16 weeks)

4-week assessment, midterm assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final exam

Listening and Speaking I (16weeks)

4-week assessment, midterm assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final exam

Grammar I (16 weeks)

4-week assessment, midterm assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final exam

US Culture and College Life (16 weeks)

Midterm and final exam

Academic English (placement test with remote monitoring or after arrival)

2ND SEMESTER Intermediate Level

Reading and Writing II (16 weeks)

4-week assessment, midterm assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final exam

Listening and Speaking II (16 weeks)

4-week assessment, mid-term assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final exam

Grammar II (16 weeks)

4-week assessment, midterm assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final exam

Language in Context and Study Skills (16 weeks)

Midterm and final exam

Academic English (placement test with remote monitoring or after arrival)

3RD SEMESTER Advanced Level

Reading and Writing III (16 weeks)

4-week assessment, midterm assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final exam

Listening and Speaking III (16 weeks)

4-week assessment, midterm assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final exam

Research Skills (16 weeks)

4-week assessment, midterm assessment, 3rd Quarter assessment, final presentation

Critical Thinking (16 weeks)

Midterm and final exam

Academic English (placement test with remote monitoring or after arrival)

FAQs

Do I need to pay an application fee?

There is no application fee for the Intensive English Program (IEP).

Do I need to take an English proficiency test before starting the Intensive English Program?

You do not need to take an English proficiency test to apply to the Intensive English Program. If you have already taken an English proficiency test; for example, the TOEFL or IELTS, you may provide these scores with your application.

What is a certification of finances?

The Certification of Finances is a document stating that you have sufficient funds available to cover the cost of your tuition, living, books, and other expenses. If you will be accompanied by family members, the certification of finances should show enough funds to cover their living expenses as well. In addition, you must provide a copy of your bank statement showing at least the amount written on your certificate of finances form.

What documents are needed to apply?

In order to apply to the Intensive English Program, you will need to submit the following documents:

Completed and signed application form
Financial certification documentation, in English
A bank statement dated within the last 60 days
Copy of your current passport, showing your name and date of birth
English proficiency test scores, such as TOEFL/IELTS etc. (optional for IEP)
Academic transcripts

What happens after I have completed my application?

When the Admission Counselor receives your completed application and you have submitted the required documents, you will receive a message informing you of the next step in the process from your Admission Counselor. Once everything has been verified, a request for an I-20 will be sent to a Designated School Official, who will create your I-20.

What is the deadline to apply?

The deadlines for application are as follow:

Fall/August - June 1
Spring/January - November 1
Summer - March 1

These are our preferred deadlines for applying to the IEP; if you happen to miss the deadline, you may contact the International Admissions Office to see if your application can be accepted after the date stated. It is best to get your application and documents in early so they can be processed accordingly. This will give you more time to prepare for your visa appointment.

How do I reserve housing?

IEP students are not required to live on campus. If you would like to request campus housing, your Admissions Counselor or Student Service Coordinator will help you submit your request. Housing in the student residences fills quickly. Reservations are processed for applicants who submit their requests, along with their deposit, in the order in which they are received.

We will also provide you with a list of nearby apartments and other rental property that you may contact to arrange off-campus housing.

How do I make payments?

You will be able to make payments in your student portal once you have completed an application and have been accepted. All fees, deposits, and tuition must be paid in $US dollars. You may pay fees and deposits online. Tuition may also be paid by using a credit card, check, or wire transfer of the funds. Sponsored students must provide an updated letter of financial guarantee from their sponsor.

When do sessions start?

There are three start dates throughout the year in the months of August, January, and June. Please see the program calendar for the upcoming start date.

Intensive English Program Academic Calendar

When	Event	Location
Summer 2025 Sessions
Monday, May 26, 2025	Memorial Day: No Classes, Administrative Offices Closed. Memorial Day: No Classes, Administrative Offices Closed. Date/Time: Monday, May 26, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Thursday, June 19, 2025	Juneteenth Day (Online Hours to Supplant Lost Day) No Classes, All Administrative Offices Closed Juneteenth Day (Online Hours to Supplant Lost Day) No Classes, All Administrative Offices Closed Date/Time: Thursday, June 19, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Saturday, June 28, 2025	Summer Session I Ends Summer Session I Ends Date/Time: Saturday, June 28, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Friday, July 4, 2025	Independence Day: No Classes, All Administrative Offices Closed Independence Day: No Classes, All Administrative Offices Closed Date/Time: Friday, July 4, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, July 7, 2025	Summer Session II Begins Summer Session II Begins Date/Time: Monday, July 7, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Sunday, August 17, 2025	Summer Session II Ends Summer Session II Ends Date/Time: Sunday, August 17, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Fall 2025 Semester
Monday, August 25, 2025	Fall Semester Begins Fall Semester Begins Date/Time: Monday, August 25, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, September 1, 2025	Labor Day: No Classes, All Administrative Offices Closed Labor Day: No Classes, All Administrative Offices Closed Date/Time: Monday, September 1, 2025 Location: Academic Dates No Classes... All Administrative Offices Closed-Labor Day Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Tuesday, September 2, 2025	Last Day to Register/Add Fall Courses Last Day to Register/Add Fall Courses Date/Time: Tuesday, September 2, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, October 13 – Tuesday, October 14, 2025	Undergraduate and Graduate Fall Break Day … No Classes … Undergraduate and Graduate Fall Break Day … No Classes … Date/Time: Monday, October 13 – Tuesday, October 14, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Friday, October 31, 2025	Last Day to Withdraw from Fall Courses Last Day to Withdraw from Fall Courses Date/Time: Friday, October 31, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Tuesday, November 25, 2025	Thanksgiving Holiday Break Begins at Conclusion of Classes Thanksgiving Holiday Break Begins at Conclusion of Classes Date/Time: Tuesday, November 25, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, December 1, 2025	Fall Semester Classes Resume Fall Semester Classes Resume Date/Time: Monday, December 1, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Tuesday, December 9 – Thursday, December 11, 2025	Final Exams Final Exams Date/Time: Tuesday, December 9 – Thursday, December 11, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Saturday, December 13, 2025	Fall Semester Ends Fall Semester Ends Date/Time: Saturday, December 13, 2025 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Spring 2026 Sesmester
Monday, January 12, 2026	Spring Semester Begins Spring Semester Begins Date/Time: Monday, January 12, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, January 19, 2026	Martin Luther King, Jr. Day...No Classes … All Administrative Offices Closed Martin Luther King, Jr. Day...No Classes … All Administrative Offices Closed Date/Time: Monday, January 19, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Tuesday, January 20, 2026	Last Day to Register/Add Spring Courses Last Day to Register/Add Spring Courses Date/Time: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Saturday, March 7 – Sunday, March 15, 2026	Spring Break (3/7-3/15) Spring Break (3/7-3/15) Date/Time: Saturday, March 7 – Sunday, March 15, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, March 16, 2026	Spring Semester Classes Resume Spring Semester Classes Resume Date/Time: Monday, March 16, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Spring 2026 Sesmester
Friday, March 27, 2026	Last Day to withdraw from spring classes Last Day to withdraw from spring classes Date/Time: Friday, March 27, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Wednesday, April 1, 2026	Easter Holiday Begins at Conclusion of Classes Easter Holiday Begins at Conclusion of Classes Date/Time: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, April 6, 2026	Easter Monday...No Classes … All Administrative Offices Closed Easter Monday...No Classes … All Administrative Offices Closed Date/Time: Monday, April 6, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Tuesday, April 7, 2026	Spring Semester Classes Resume Spring Semester Classes Resume Date/Time: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Saturday, May 9, 2026	Spring Semester Ends Spring Semester Ends Date/Time: Saturday, May 9, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, May 18, 2026	Summer Session I Begins Summer Session I Begins Date/Time: Monday, May 18, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Monday, May 25, 2026	Memorial Day … No Classes … All Administrative Offices Closed Memorial Day … No Classes … All Administrative Offices Closed Date/Time: Monday, May 25, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Friday, June 19, 2026	Juneteenth Day...(Online Hours to Supplant Lost Day) … All Administrative Offices Closed Juneteenth Day...(Online Hours to Supplant Lost Day) … All Administrative Offices Closed Date/Time: Friday, June 19, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Saturday, June 27, 2026	Summer Session I Ends Summer Session I Ends Date/Time: Saturday, June 27, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates
Saturday, July 4, 2026	Independence Day...No Classes … All Administrative Offices Closed Independence Day...No Classes … All Administrative Offices Closed Date/Time: Saturday, July 4, 2026 Location: Academic Dates Email Reminder	Academic Dates