students on UA campus with the mascot Zippy

EAP - English for Academic Purposes Program

Students in the EAP program come from all over the world. Many are international students on F-1 student visas; some are U.S. citizens or permanent residents or visitors with a legal status to study at the institute full-time or part-time.

About the program

Full-time students in the EAP Program attend 18 hours of noncredit classes each week for 16 weeks in the fall and spring semesters. Part-time classes are offered during the 8-week summer session. 

The ELI's English for Academic Purposes Program (EAP) serves two groups of people:

  • Students who are preparing to enroll in a university degree program in the United States
  • People who desire an intensive approach to language learning

EAP Courses

Four courses:

  1. Reading
  2. Writing
  3. Speaking and Listening
  4. Grammar

These courses are offered at three different levels:

  1. Intermediate
  2. High intermediate
  3. Advanced

Application Procedures

The University of Akron operates on a rolling admissions basis. You will receive your admission decision after ALL applications materials have been received.

    • Degree Seeking Full-time Students
      • Follow the undergraduate or graduate admission process to submit all application materials including proof of English proficiency (TESOF/ILTES test score).
    • Non-Degree Seeking Full-time or Part-time Students
      • Follow this link to complete the application form to apply for ELI directly.

    Application Deadlines

    If you need to obtain an F-1 student visa, please apply to a degree program. Once you are accepted into a degree program but with no or inadequate proof of English Proficiency, you will be referred to ELI directly. Also see Applying for Admission to Academic Programs: 

    • To begin in the fall semester, apply by May 1
    • To begin in the spring semester, apply by November 15

    If you do not need to apply for an F-1 visa because you are already in the U.S. or who will enter the U.S. in another status, you may apply up to two weeks before the first day of the semester start date listed on The University of Akron’s Academic Calendar.

    For more information about F-1 visas, visit the International Center

    Apply Now

    Tuition, fees and estimated expenses

    The amount for tuition covers instructional costs and fees. We provide you a breakdown of expenses, including estimated living expenses for Akron, Ohio.

    • View tuition and fees details - coming soon

    Applying for admission to academic programs

    Students interested in pursuing a degree following their completion of the EAP program can apply for admission before or after applying for the EAP program. Qualified students that apply to The University of Akron prior to applying to the EAP program will receive conditional admission. Upon successful completion of the EAP program and providing valid proof of English proficiency, students with conditional admission can begin coursework at the start of the next semester. 

    Apply Now