Intensive English Program
Study English in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina

The Intensive English Program at Western Carolina University offers you:

  • Quality English language instruction
  • Preparation for academic study in the United States
  • Safe, small town, American atmosphere with a global outlook

IEP Curriculum

  • Four levels of English competence: high beginner, low intermediate, high intermediate, and advanced
  • Instruction and strategies in reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar
  • 20+ hours per week in language instruction and activities

Each level of instruction is designed to be completed in one 15-week semester. High beginning level students can complete the program in four semesters. Other students can complete the program in less time depending upon their level of English proficiency.  These courses are offered on a not-for-credit basis.

IEP students may apply for conditional admission to Western Carolina University. After successfully completing the IEP, they may enter a degree program without providing a TOEFL or IELTS score to WCU.

i-fest flags

IEP Highlights

  • Safe, friendly campus
  • Small class size
  • Orientation to the program and to the university
  • Access to all facilities of Western Carolina University
  • Opportunities to learn about American culture
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Collegial learning community

Admission Requirements

IEP only or IEP with conditional admission to Bachelor's program:

  • Minimum age of 18
  • High school or secondary school diploma

IEP with conditional admission to Graduate program:  See Graduate School .

Faculty

Experienced faculty hold graduate degrees in language teaching and are native English.speakers. IEP students receive individual attention from a dedicated and caring faculty and staff.

Housing and Meals

IEP students live in residence halls on campus. Double or single occupancy rooms are equipped with furniture, utilities, and high speed internet. Meals are served in the new campus dining hall and offer a range of food choices. Housing for students who are accompanied by family members is available only in off-campus residences. 

Location

Surrounded by forested mountains, WCU’s campus in Cullowhee, North Carolina blends scenic beauty with convenient, modern facilities. Cullowhee is a rural community located two hours away by car from major cities such as Atlanta, Georgia and Knoxville, Tennessee. The nearest airport is Asheville, North Carolina, about an hour’s drive away. The climate in Cullowhee is temperate with four distinct seasons.  Come see us -- it's beautiful here!

WCU campus scenic

Cost

 Total cost per 15-week semester:  USD $8935
 (subject to change)   
 Academic program:  3250
 University fees: 1450
 Housing (double room) and meals: 3235
 Books (estimated): 200
 Personal expenses (estimated):  800
                                                                                                             
Suggested application filing dates:

Fall Term (August-December): April 1
Spring Term (January-May): September 1 
Summer Term (May-August): February 1  
Closed for Summer

For program and application information, contact:

Connie Hanna
Director, Intensive English Program
International Programs & Services
109 Camp Bldg.
69 East University Way
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC  28723

001.828.227.3458 tel
001.828.227.7080 fax
Hanna@wcu.edu

Apply Now!

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