Frequently Asked Questions
Intensive English Language Program (IELP)
- Does the IELP prepare students for the TOEFL?
- Everything a student does in and with English is preparation for the Paper and Internet-based TOEFL exam. Our teachers provide information on how in-class activities relate to the TOEFL exam. Students can choose a TOEFL preparation elective course on Friday mornings which helps students with testing strategies for the exam. Also, all students are expected to take the Paper TOEFL exam at the end of each semester for additional practice and for placement in the correct level in the program.
- How big are the classes? What is the typical class size?
- Most classes have around 10 students which allows for personal instruction and interaction.
- How long will it take to learn English?
- The IELP offers three levels of English language instruction. Students can move up levels depending on their language proficiency and the overall enrollment in the program. How long it takes to learn English depends on the student. Many improve their English language proficiency quickly.
- When and where are the classes held?
- Classes are held on the main campus of Fresno Pacific University usually in EAH--East Hall. Please look at the daily schedule for general course times.
- Who teaches in the IELP?
- Teachers in the IELP are highly qualified to teach English as a second language. All instructors hold or are working toward master’s degrees in TESOL and applied linguistics. Most have had experience teaching both inside and outside the United States.
- Where do the students come from?
- Students in the IELP and Fresno Pacific University come from all over the world. Some students are from Brazil and Moldova, with other students coming from China, Congo, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, Serbia, Ukraine, Russia, Mexico and Ethiopia.
- When does the program begin and end?
- There are five eight-week sessions offered each academic year: two in the fall, two in the spring, and one in the summer. Please see our calendar page for the exact dates.
Admission
- Do I have to submit a TOEFL score to be admitted to the IELP (Intensive English Language Program)?
- No, the IELP prepares you for this test.
- How long does it take for the IPSO (International Programs & Services Office) to evaluate an application and issue an I-20?
- As soon as we have all the required items, it takes no longer than a week.
- Can students attend the IELP part-time?
- No.
- Is there a waiting list for admission?
- No.
- What are the transfer admission requirements?
- -official college transcripts
- -minimum of 24 transferable units
- -GPA of 2.4
Academics
- What is the core curriculum or general education requirement?
- -biblical literature
- -history
- -mathematics
- -communication
- -foreign languages (for international students the TOEFL fulfills this requirement)
- -humanities
- -natural sciences
- -social sciences
- -PE
- -focus series
- -GE building blocks toward the major
- -declare major after sophomore year
- How many units are considered a full load?
- Twelve to 18 units per semester are considered a full load. The average is 15 to 16 units.
- When must an academic major be declared?
- You must declare a major before the end of the second semester of your sophomore year.
- Does the college offer a tutorial service?
- Yes. There is a Center for Writing and Learning where students can receive tutorial assistance in different subject areas.
- Will “D” grades transfer in from other post-secondary institutions?
- No.
- What academic scholarships are available?
- A variety of scholarships are available. Please see the Financial Aid Awards page for more information.
- How long does it take to graduate?
- The length of time it takes to graduate varies. The average is 4 years.
- Is there a job placement service or career day?
- Yes. The Career Services Center offers a variety of services for students.
