Study English at a top-ranked US university

The ELP is a top English language program with a CEA-accredited Intensive Program. We offer open-enrollment programs in academic, professional, and general English and also provide programs to matriculated Penn students in areas such as business, design, and the sciences. We offer teacher training, cross-cultural training, and testing. Custom programs and consulting services are available for foundations, multinational corporations, universities, and government agencies.

The ELP allows students to experience the US university life while being immersed in the language and culture of a vibrant East Coast city. Each year, students from all around the world study at the ELP as part of the active university community.

How we are different

• Part of the Ivy League: Penn is a top-ranked major research and teaching university with superior faculty and staff and a student body from around the world. The ELP students receive an official University ID and all students can use Penn’s libraries, museums, and computer labs.
• High-quality instruction: The ELP employs highly trained and experienced instructors. All full-time instructors hold graduate degrees in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or similar areas of study, and many contribute to the field as researchers, presenters, and authors.
• Urban location: Penn is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a lively and multifaceted city of 1.5 million people. The city is rich in culture, history, art, nature, shopping, and entertainment. Philadelphia is located between New York and Washington, DC, and within easy travel distance to Boston, Baltimore, and East Coast beaches.
• Comprehensive student services: The ELP provides support services and organizes social and cultural opportunities for students. ELP staff encourage students to get involved at Penn and in Philadelphia; in addition, students receive help adjusting to academic and cultural challenges.
• Unique University Connection services: The ELP has a dedicated counseling team to help students prepare for and apply to US universities. University Connection services include workshops, advising, orientation to US university culture, and networking opportunities with university admissions representatives.
• Availability of University lectures: The ELP students can attend open lectures on campus to practice their English skills. At the advanced levels, students can also apply to take a credit course with Penn undergraduates. Many ELP programs include guest lectures by professors from The Wharton School of Business or other academic departments at Penn.
• Cross-cultural exchange with American students: At the ELP, students can participate in Penn clubs, activities, and events. The ELP’s Conversation Partners Program is another great way to meet Penn students for language and cultural exchange.
• Well-equipped classrooms: Penn is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, free internet access, and modern computer and language labs.
• Smaller class sizes: Class sizes at the ELP range from 12 to 18 students so that each student receives individualized attention based on their language needs.