Program Details

IEP University Pathways Track

Your first step on our University Pathways track is to join the Intensive English Program (IEP). When you’re an IEP student, we can help you apply for admission to our partner schools. If you show B2 (upper intermediate) English level in the IEP, you do not need to take the TOEFL or IELTs — our University Pathways recommendation will satisfy the university’s English requirements.

University Pathways Program at ILI

At ILI, we want you to succeed at university. Successful students need to learn not only English but also U.S. academic culture. That is why many international students choose ILI’s University Pathways track in the Intensive English Program.

In the University Pathways track in the Intensive English Program (IEP), you will receive individualized support to transition successfully to a university or college. Instead of cramming for exams or memorizing grammar rules, you will practice a well-balanced set of skills including essay writing, classroom participation, interactive presentations, small-group discussions, team collaboration, academic research, and critical analysis. By focusing less on test taking and more on academic training, you will be better positioned to succeed in your university program. 

Three students sitting on the lawn on a college campus studying and talking.

Who are these University Pathways suited for?

If you would like to attend a university in the United States, but don’t want to take the English test required by schools, ILI’s University Pathways Program is a good option for you. ILI’s University Pathways students do NOT need to take the TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or other standardized ESL test. A University Pathways recommendation letter from ILI satisfies our partner university’s English requirements, thus exempting students from taking additional ESL exams.

ILI partners with 12 carefully selected regional colleges and universities and with Shorelight Education, which offers undergraduate and graduate degrees at 14 schools around the United States.

Quick facts

  • ILI’s University Pathways track schools offer diverse programs
  • ILI partners with low-cost, highly accessible community colleges. Community colleges cost less and offer more flexible admission pathways
  • You don’t have to take the TOEFL to be accepted as long as you can reach the B2 level at ILI
  • Focus on being a successful student in the U.S. academic culture
  • Develop skills in essay writing, classroom participation and presentations, small-group discussions, team collaboration, academic research, and critical analysis.
  • Individualized support to help students transition successfully

Ready to get started with our University Pathways Program?

Simply follow the steps below to get started:

  1. Learn more about our Intensive English Program.
  2. Fill out the application form.
  3. We’ll contact you personally to go through your needs.
  4. You book and pay and we support you as you plan your trip.

Still not sure?

Not a problem! If you are searching for more information you can:

The ILI Promise

At ILI, we believe that all our actions should stem from grace and loving kindness.

Portrait of Caroline Gear - Executive Director
  • We operate as an equal opportunity organization.
  • We nurture relationships beyond the classroom.
  • We are committed to providing the highest quality language instruction and teacher training.
  • We promote intercultural understanding and celebrate the diversity in our local communities.
  • We work collaboratively to build and sustain the communities we serve.
  • We believe in life-changing teaching and learning.

Other ways to learn

Private English Lessons

Male student writing about first US experience.

Choose Private English Classes for exclusive one-on-one time with your teacher, or add them to your Intensive English Program for an extra boost.

English for the Workplace

A large group of ESOL students who work in a hospital.

Workplace English boosts English language communication skills in your place of work. Individual or group, online or face-to-face, it’s all possible.