What will I study in the ESL program?
Five days each week you will have classes from 8:00 a.m. until noon. There are 3 or 4 levels: beginner, elementary, intermediate, and advanced. The "Beginner" level might not be offered every session. Our usual class schedule is:
- 8:00 to 8:50: Writing class
- 9:00 to 9:50: Reading class
- 10:00 to 10:50: Speaking class
- 11:00 to 11:50: Listening class
After lunch you may meet with tutors for extra practice or help with homework. You can also use the 8 computer labs on campus to prepare your writing homework and to do research on the internet.
Are ESL classes accredited by a professional accrediting association?
Yes. All ESL and St. Norbert College classes are accredited by North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
Does St. Norbert College offer "conditional" admission?
Yes. Students who do not have a TOEFL or IELTS score can apply for admission to a degree program. When students arrive at St. Norbert College, they will take a language placement test. If language skills are weak, students will study in the ESL program before beginning their degree program.
Can ESL students take college courses?
ESL students can attend college courses after they complete ESL advanced level classes or obtain a TOEFL score of 550/213/80. IELTS score of 6.0 - 6.5.
Can ESL students apply for admission to a degree program at St. Norbert College?
ESL students are encouraged to apply for admission to St. Norbert College. Application is easy. Prepare these documents:
1.
Application Form
2. Financial statements showing money is available to pay school fees.
3. Secondary school grades with translation. Grade average should be "B" or better.
4. Optional: Write an essay explaining why you want to study at St. Norbert College.
Can I get a scholarship to study at St. Norbert College?
Yes. For the academic year 2008-2009, merit scholarships up to $11,500 per year are available to qualified students. Please view the
Scholarship Guidelines.
Are classes the same in the summer (June, July, August)?
In the summer students can take classes for 4, 8, or 12 weeks. It takes 12 weeks to complete one level in the summer. Some students come for only 4 or 8 weeks in the summer.
What level will I be in?
On the first day of class, new students take an English placement test. Your placement test will include writing a short essay, speaking to a teacher, and taking a listening and reading test. Your teachers will correct the tests and assign you to classes that are best for you. During the first week of classes, you may request a change in level. Your teachers will decide if you should change level. After the first week, students are not allowed to change level.
How many students will be in my classes?
The average class size is 8 - 10 students. The maximum class size is 15. From August to May each year, about 45 - 55 students are enrolled in the ESL classes. In June, July, and August there may be 40 to 80 students enrolled in all levels.
What will it cost to study in the ESL program?
In 2008 the average cost of studying in the ESL program is about $1,850 - $1,950 each month. This includes ESL tuition and fees, College dormitory (double room) and meals, health insurance, and books.
What do I have to do to graduate from the ESL program?
To graduate from the ESL program with a recommendation to begin university classes, students must finish all classes in the ESL advanced level. A passing grade is "B" or higher. For more information view the
ESL Graduation Requirements.
Can I enroll in St. Norbert College degree classes after I finish the ESL program?
Some ESL students enroll in St. Norbert College degree programs after they finish the ESL program. Students can apply for admission to St. Norbert College without a TOEFL score if they successfully finish the ESL advanced level classes.
Do I have to take the TOEFL test?
No, you do not have to take the TOEFL test while you are in the ESL program. The ESL program offers the "Institutional TOEFL" test at various times during the year. There is a fee for students who want to take the test. The ESL Institute does not offer the iBT TOEFL or the cbt TOEFL
Will I receive a certificate of completion when I leave the ESL program?
Yes. You will receive a certificate of attendance or certificate of completion at our graduation ceremony at the end of the session.
Can I transfer to another school?
Yes. You can transfer to another school after you have paid your fees and notified the director of your intent to transfer. We hope you will not transfer to another school, but you have the right to do so.
