Center for International & English Learning

Intensive English Language Program

IELP students standing by the Portland State University campus sign


Portland State University (PSU) continues to admit academically qualified international students who have sufficient English language proficiency. See our international admissions webpage for details. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Does PSU still have the IELP pathway program?

    No. Students can no longer be admitted to PSU unless they have met the minimum English language proficiency requirements.

  2. My goal is to get a degree from PSU, but I don't have evidence of English language proficiency. What can I do?

    PSU accepts a variety of tests that prove English language proficiency. 

  3. My goal is to get a degree from PSU, but I don't have sufficient English language proficiency yet. Where can I go in the Portland area to learn academic English?

    Beginning Spring 2025, two local schools will have agreements with Portland State University. Completion of their English programs will be accepted by PSU as evidence of language proficiency. These schools are:

    Portland Community College (PCC) - Portland Community College is a multi-campus college in the Portland metro area. They offer an 8-level ESOL program. 

    Community colleges are very common American institutions. They are like universities, but they only offer classes for first- and second-year college students. Many American students study at community colleges and then transfer to universities.  

    Pacific International Academy (PIA) - This language school is on the campus of the University of Portland. They offer a 6-level intensive English program. 

  4. I want to take classes in English at PSU, but I don't yet have language proficiency sufficient for admission. Are there any options for me?

    OR 

    I want to take classes in English at PSU but I'm not interested in admission. Are there any options for me?

    Yes. There are two options available. 

    The Portland Center offers an opportunity to earn academic credit. Students enroll in PSU classes and, simultaneously, in academic English support classes taught by university faculty. If you have intermediate English language skills, you can start in either Fall (September), Winter (January), or Spring (March) Term.

    Note: Students in this program are admitted to the Portland Center. They are not admitted to Portland State University. Students who wish to transition to Portland State University must apply and meet the institution's admissions requirements to gain entry. 

    International Special Programs (ISP) offers non-credit English language classes delivered by experienced teachers. There are an array of short-term programs appropriate for learners at a range of levels. Programs start at various times throughout the calendar year. 

  5. I have other questions or need further information. Who should I contact?

    You can connect with Eowyn Ferey, outgoing Director of the Intensive English Language Program and member of the Multilingual Student Support Taskforce, at eowynb@pdx.edu. 

  6. I have feedback to give regarding the elimination of the Intensive English Language Program. Who should I contact?

    You can connect with Eowyn Ferey, outgoing Director of the Intensive English Language Program and member of the Multilingual Student Support Taskforce at eowynb@pdx.edu or Dr. Lynn Santelmann, Chair/Professor of Applied Linguistics and Head of the Multilingual Student Support Taskforce at santelmannl@pdx.edu.