International Admission > Resources > English Language Academy (ELA) > English Language Programs > Intensive English Program (IEP) > Apply for IEP

Apply for IEP

Ready to ​apply to the English Language Academy?

Read more below about admission requirements and your next steps to apply.

Admission Requirements

Admission to ELA is open to all international students who have studied some English and completed their secondary school education. Minimum age for the Intensive English Program (IEP) is 17 years old.

Application Deadlines

Application deadlines are:

  • Seven (7) weeks for students outside the U.S.
  • Two (2) weeks for F-1 transfer students within the U.S.
  • Rolling deadline for students who do not need a visa to study in the U.S.
  • See ELA Calendar for deadlines for each term.

How to Apply

Step 1. Apply online:

Create your application account (Blue Demon Domain) and select "English Language Academy" Application. If you cannot complete an online application, please contact ELA by phone +1(312/362-6455) or email. We can help you complete the application.

Apply Here

Step 2. Submit application fee:

Pay a one-time $80 online application fee (non-refundable). You can pay with credit/debit card at the end of the online application.

Step 3. Download and complete the Application Essay and send to ELA:

  • Download and complete the Application Essay Form.
  • Scan and upload the completed handwritten Application Essay. If you are unable to upload your essay, you may send it to ela@depaul.edu.

Once you complete these three steps, ELA will review your application and give an admission decision, usually within 5 business days.

Do you have questions? Make an appointment with ELA staff.

Make an Appointment

Part-time Enrollment

The English Language Academy's curriculum is designed primarily as academic preparation for full-time students seeking enrollment in degree programs. Limited numbers of placements are available for applicants who wish to study part-time (less than four classes) or whose status limits enrollment (principally F-2 visa holders). Applicants with little or no English language who are limited to part-time study should plan to develop their basic English skills before applying to ELA.

To enroll in classes, all applicants who seek part-time enrollment must place at or above the intermediate level of the program as determined by ELA administration.

ELA's elective courses are open-enrollment courses available both to students in DePaul's Intensive English Program (IEP)​ and those taking electives only.