Why Iowa?

Achieve fluency in speaking, writing, listening, and reading with tailored courses that fit your needs and academic goals.

Study here

Explore coursework in English as a second language

ESL courses

Enrich your academic journey

Join a welcoming, supportive community that offers language instruction and cultural orientation to help you thrive at the University of Iowa. You'll benefit from expert teaching assistants and professors who specialize in linguistics and are committed to your academic and cultural success.

English Language Center

ESL Programs provides individual tutoring for the University of Iowa in its English Language Center. ESL faculty and teaching assistants offer 30-minute or 45-minute sessions for English language support.

Teaching Assistant Preparation in English

The Teaching Assistant Preparation in English (TAPE) program is designed for prospective teaching assistants whose first language is not English.

ESL Credit Program

English as a Second Language (ESL) credit classes are available to UI students whose first language is not English—U.S. as well as international students.

Campus Conversation Partners

ESL tutoring

Why study at Iowa?

The University of Iowa's ESL programs empower international students to succeed academically, socially, and culturally.

With a rich history of supporting non-native English speakers, the University of Iowa offers a comprehensive suite of ESL programs tailored to meet the unique needs of international students. Whether you're improving your language proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening through the ESL Credit Program, or preparing to teach in the U.S. with the TAPE program, you'll receive high-quality instruction that ensures success in both academic and social settings. Every course is designed with your personal and professional growth in mind, offering valuable credits while building your English skills.

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First year English language instruction and support were offered

Two students talk to one another in English
ESL student working on an assignment
Students conversing in English in front of a window
Two people conversing over a sheet of paper

English as a second language resources

International Programs

Writing Center

Division of Student Life events

Write your story

Build knowledge. Conduct research. Create new work. Stand out among your peers. You're going places, and it all starts here.

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English as a second language faculty

Portrait of Sue Almen-Whittaker, Associate Professor of Instruction

Sue Almén-Whittaker, MA

Associate Professor of Instruction, English as a Second Language
Portrait of Melissa Meisterheim

Melissa Meisterheim, PhD

Associate Professor of Instruction, English as a Second Language
Associate Professor of Instruction, Linguistics
Rebecca Yeager

Rebecca Yeager

Associate Professor of Instruction, English as a Second Language
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