FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Application & Classes

1. If I miss the Application Deadline, can I still apply?
   
   
2. When will I receive my I-20?
   
   
3. I am a U.S. Resident. How do I enroll in English language (ESL /
   IELP) classes?
   
   
4. Can I take classes part-time?
   
   
5. Can I take regular university courses at PSU while in the IELP?
   
   
6. Can I automatically be accepted to PSU after completing IELP courses?
   
   
7. Can spouses of international students or of visiting scholars take IELP classes?
   
   
8. FAQs about TOEFL score and English language proficiency requirements for PSU admission

Q1. If I miss the application deadline, can I still apply?

A: Yes, we will accept a late application, but late applicants may not have enough time to get a student visa or make travel arrangements. In some countries it takes longer to get a visa interview. We recommend that you apply about 3 months before the term begins.

Transfer students, who are already in the U.S., should apply at least 2 weeks before the term begins.

Q2. When will I receive my I-20?

A: The IELP Office can issue an I-20 Form about 2 weeks after we receive your complete application. A complete application includes: application form:

• application fee
• proof of high school completion
• financial documentation (if you need an F-1 visa)
• a copy of your passport

Q3. I am a U.S. Resident. How do I enroll in English language
(ESL / IELP) classes?

A: It is easy! If you want to take one or two ESL courses per term ("part-time"), simply submit the following items to PSU's Office of Admissions and Records in Neuberger Hall (NH).

• Quick Entry Form
• $10 Quick Entry Application Fee

Then contact the IELP office to reserve your place at the next IELP
placement test.

If you are a U.S. Resident who wants to be a full-time student in the IELP, please contact the IELP Office for more information and special instructions.

Q4. Can I take classes part-time?

A: If you are NOT on a student F-1 or f J-1 visa, you CAN study part-time.

All international students with F-1 and J-1 student visas are required by US Immigration to enroll as full-time students.

Q5. Can I take regular university courses at PSU while in the IELP?

A: Sometimes. Most IELP students do not take other PSU courses. You need to get special permission from the IELP Academic Coordinator. Full-time IELP students do not have time for extra classes. Sometimes students can take a physical education class (such as tennis or swimming) if it does not conflict with the IELP class schedule. Also, students who have finished an advanced level IELP course can take a PSU course with the permission of the IELP Academic Coordinator.

Q6. Can I automatically be accepted to PSU after completing IELP courses?

A: No, not automatically. To apply for admission to PSU, you must submit a separate application to PSU's Admissions Office.

The IELP staff can help you apply to PSU. IELP students who want to apply to PSU must go to an "IELP-PSU roll-over meeting." A "roll-over meeting" is held every term. This meeting is for IELP students who want to apply for admission to PSU. The meeting date/time will be announced in your IELP classes. Please check the IELP News & Events or Activities Calendar for more information about this meeting.

Students with a TOEFL score of over 500 who successfully complete IELP level 5 courses with A or B grades and who have already been admitted or "conditionally" admitted to PSU can enroll in regular PSU courses the following term. Students must make an appointment with the IELP Academic Coordinator to discuss this plan and request release from the Intensive English Language Program.

Q7. Can spouses of international students or of visiting scholars take IELP classes?

A: F-2 and J-2 visa holders can take some IELP courses, but there are specific rules about how many classes F-2 or J-2 visa holders can take. Please check with the PSU International Student Office or IELP International Student Advisor for more information.

FAQs about TOEFL score and English language proficiency requirements for PSU admission

If you have any questions about your IELP application or ESL classes, please visit or write to the IELP office.

Back to Main FAQ page