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ESL Institute

Supporting the Unique Needs of Every English Learner

Welcome to the Oakland University ESL (English as a Second Language) Institute! The ESL Institute offers English language courses to local residents, small businesses, international employees, students and their families to develop the confidence in their language skills to succeed in their personal and professional lives. With English learning tailored to your specific needs, the ESL Institute will support your individual aspirations. As a Golden Grizzly, you will immerse yourself in an American university experience with a strong sense of community on a campus with state-of-the-art facilities, multicultural organizations and events, and world-class academic and recreational opportunities. 

Future Students, there are several pathways to pursue English learning at Oakland University:

  1. ESL Institute: Improve your skills in English while becoming familiar with studying in the United States.
  2. Global Achievement Pathways Program (GAPP): Get started on your degree program while taking ESL support classes.
  3. American Semester Abroad Program (ASAP): Challenge yourself! Spend a semester or two in the United States and develop your entrepreneurial passion.
  4. Fully admitted academic student: Follow your dreams and earn a degree, and if you want to continue to improve your skills in English, you can still take an ESL class!

请前往Youku的视频了解关于ESL中心的详情。

The ESL Institute is a member of the American Association of Intensive English Programs.

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An ESL student smiling at the camera

Future Students

OU’s ESL Institute provides local and international students with an inspiring classroom and campus setting to experience living, working and studying at a U.S. university. Just like ESL student Jiayi, who found support and connection in the classroom and beyond, building her confidence to elevate her academic writing skills while forging friendships and immersing herself in American culture. Learn what you can expect on our Future Students page and hear about student experiences on the ESL Student Voices page.

Two ESL students looking at a laptop together

International Employers, Employees, Expatriates and Dependents

As a recognized international employer resource, the ESL Institute is committed to supporting employee development and career advancement through our Intensive English language and American culture program (I-ACE). Employees and their adult dependents can enroll individually or visit our custom programs page for customized employee group options.

At OU, we prepare English learners like Ahmed for success. With the expert support of the ESL Institute, Ahmed set the stage for his career, transforming his love for higher education into a future in the field.

Students walking on Oakland University's campus

Your Pathway to a Degree

Your future starts now. The ESL Institute provides a direct pathway to pursue your undergraduate or graduate degree. ESL students provide diverse and valued perspectives to OU's campus classrooms and community.

To learn more about our Global Achievement Pathways Program (GAPP), visit the Office of Undergraduate Admissions or Graduate School pages for international students.

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