Welcome to the University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Programs (ELP)

The ELP offers unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in the language and culture of the US

The University of Pennsylvania's English Language Programs (ELP)

Welcome to the University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Programs (ELP)

The ELP offers unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in the language and culture of the US

Announcing our new Global Workplace Programs for Professionals

Two programs designed to improve your intercultural competence and interpersonal effectiveness in international work environments. Get more details »

Photo of the LOVE statue on Penn Campus

Why study at Penn?

  • Philadelphia is the 6th largest city in the US
  • Penn is 1 of the 8 Ivy League universities in US
  • The University was founded in 1740 
  • #7 US university, according to U.S. News & World Report
  • 299 acres of beautiful urban campus
  • 28,000+ students, including 6,900+ international students at Penn
ELP Students in class

Why study at the ELP?

  • 35 countries represented by students across ELP programs
  • Exposure to the US university system 
  • Small class sizes (average of 8–14 students) 
  • Cross-cultural exchange with Penn students
  • Experienced and dedicated faculty
Global Workplace Programs for Professionals student
FEATURED PROGRAM

Global Workplace Programs for Professionals

New for summer 2025, the programs Professional Communication and Intercultural and Interpersonal Interactions, are designed for those hoping to improve their intercultural competence and interpersonal effectiveness in international work environments. Get more details »

Explore everything about the ELP
ELP students on campus
About ELP
Learn about Penn, our history, and the ELP mission.
ELP students in the classroom
Programs
See how the ELP can help you advance your English language skills.
Student life
Student life 
Discover the experiences that await you at Penn and in Philadelphia!
People at ELP
People at ELP
Meet our distinguished instructors and accomplished students.
Meet The ELP Community
Sayaka K.

"Through my experience here, I was able to figure out my own subtle prejudices and biases against another culture. I made a lot of mistakes during my stay, but it has become my nourishment. Not only have I been able to improve my English skills, but I have also grown as a person, so now I can go back to Japan with my head held high."

Sayaka K., Japan, Intensive Program

Photo of Ammar B.

"As an ELP student, I had the opportunity to take part in Penn classes, which was a great challenge to prepare myself for my upcoming undergraduate studies. Through these courses, I was able to connect with many Penn students; I even worked in a laboratory with some of them!"

Ammar B., Saudi Arabia, University Connection Program

Photo of Jessica Keating Whitney

"As an ELP student, you will be able to use the wonderful resources that Penn's campus has to offer and experience the vibrant culture of Philadelphia. At the ELP, we believe that your English learning experience extends beyond the classroom."

Jessica Keating Whitney, Student Services and Programs Manager

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University of Pennsylvania
English Language Programs
110 Fisher-Bennett Hall
3340 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104-6274 USA

elp@sas.upenn.edu
Phone: 1 (215) 898-8681