Western Illinois University :: Center for International Studies

Ranked among the 150 best value undergraduate colleges in the US by the Princeton Review
57 undergraduate degree programs, 36 graduate degree programs, 13 Pre-professional programs, and new Ed. D. program
Top-of-the-line computer labs and resource centers
One faculty member for every 17 students
Affordable tuition and low housing costs
Friendly residential campus with modern residence halls
Conditional admission may be offered for students without the necessary TOEFL score of 550 (213 score on CBT or 80 on iBT)
Upon completion of the WESL program, the ESL requirement is satisfied
Personal attention and full range of support services for international students
Located in a safe town with a population of 20,000
WIU is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools
The WIU College of Business and Technology is accredited by the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

WESL Institute - ESL Program

The WESL Institute has a 30-year record of preparing international students for university study and is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation. This means that WESL is one of the best ESL programs in the United States.

Advanced ESL Courses Offered:
- Popular short-term ESL programs available
- Advanced Pronunciation
- Advanced Written & Spoken Grammar
- Advanced English for Academic Purposes
Three class levels and 20 hours of instruction per week in reading, writing, listening and speaking
An average of 14 students per class
WESL instructors have graduate degrees and special training in teaching English as a second language, and an average of 12 years experience teaching at the WESL Institute.
All instructors understand the special needs of WESL students; all have lived and studied in other countries
Dual Program available for advanced-level students who meet WIU admission requirements
Student:Teacher ratio 7:1

International Student Orientation

A ten-day welcome program introduces new international students to the campus and community, starting with complimentary pickup at the Peoria airport or the Macomb train station.

Information Sessions covering topics such as registering for classes, student health insurance, housing and dining, safety and legal issues, and many other topics of importance to international students
Opportunities to meet American students and community members at events such as the American Culture Evening and the Community Potluck Picnic
Orientation volunteers welcome new students by answering questions and accompanying students around campus
Banking trips
Shopping trips
Residence hall move-in assistance

Total Costs Per Year

For WESL Institute tuition/fee information, please visit the Center for International Studies online at www.wiu.edu/international and click on the WESL link. You may apply directly online by clicking on the Admissions link.

If you are interested in any of our programs and would like to request information, please contact us!

Visit the web site of Western Illinois University.

AAIEP Member Program