English as a Second Language (ESL) Program

The English as a Second Language Program (ESL) has been serving Saint Louis University international students for almost 40 years.  The ESL Intensive English Program, offering 27 hours per week of intermediate to advanced level instruction, prepares international students for undergraduate and graduate study, the TOEFL exam and U.S.  culture.  Interactive classes focus on developing academic reading, writing, pronunciation, speaking and listening skills. The program uses sustained content to provide a common theme to all classes. In addition, students have opportunities to participate in conversation groups with American students, language lab activities, and university audit classes.  ESL classes are taught by highly qualified faculty in a supportive atmosphere.  The paper-based institutional TOEFL is given at the end of each semester; the iBT internet-based TOEFL is available on campus, by appointment.

In addition to the Intensive English Program, English as a Second Language gives academic language support to matriculated undergraduate and graduate students. 

Saint Louis University's ESL program offers two semesters, each 15 weeks long, beginning in late August and early January. In addition, there is an 8-week summer session in June and July. This session is designed to introduce the student to the legends and history of the area. Field trips are included.

Students may enroll in successive semesters until they achieve the necessary English proficiency to meet their needs prior to enrolling for a degree program. Admitted students may begin enrollment in any session. A 460 PBT, or 140 CBT, or 48 iBT is required for admission to the ESL program.

For regular, undergraduate courses (without taking ESL), the student must achieve scores equal or higher than 523 PBT, 197 CBT or a 70 iBT.

For more information, please contact Diana Pascoe-Chavez at
+1 (314) 977-3210. A second website with academic information can be found here.