Intensive English Program

The intensive English program of English Programs for Internationals (EPI) of the University of South Carolina combines high-quality instruction with friendly, personalized service. EPI's intensive English program provides an opportunity for international students to improve their English language skills before entering a university in the United States. It is also appropriate for individuals who need English skills for professional reasons. EPI is designed to help international students feel comfortable and succeed in their new environment.

EPI offers five terms per year beginning in January, March, May, August, and October. Each term is nine weeks long, and each week students receive 20 hours of supervised English instruction. Classes are held Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 3:10 pm and Friday from 9:00 am to 12:10. There are three classes each day: grammar/writing, reading/vocabulary, and speaking/listening.

Typical Week at EPI

	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
9:00	Grammar / Writing	Grammar / Writing	Grammar / Writing	Grammar / Writing	Grammar / Writing
10:20	break
10:50	Reading / Vocabulary	Reading / Vocabulary	Reading / Vocabulary	Reading / Vocabulary	Reading / Vocabulary
12:10	lunch
1:30	Speaking / Listening	Speaking / Listening	Speaking / Listening	Speaking / Listening	Free Time / Optional Community Service, Sports, etc.
3:10	break
3:30	Shopping Trip	TOEFL Prep*	Faculty Office Hours	TOEFL Prep*

*TOEFL preparation provides 24 hours of instruction each term. This is an optional class offered for an additional fee every term.

Class size averages from 12 to 15 students of similar English level. Six levels of proficiency are offered, from beginning to advanced. Low levels are sometimes blended (for example, Reading/Vocabulary 1 & 2). EPI teachers have the experience and training needed to teach blended levels effectively. In a blended class, the lower level students are also given extra instruction if they need it.

Students are placed in their classes based on the results of tests administered at the beginning of each term. In addition to scheduled classes, students have access to EPI's three computer labs (also the university's labs) during the week. All students have an e-mail account and access to the internet. TOEFL preparation is part of the regular curriculum. Because classes are held on campus, EPI students are able to interact with American students and to learn about student life.

EPI accepts students who are interested in a full-time language program. An applicant must be at least 17 years old and a graduate of a secondary school.

EPI offers short-term study options for people who cannot study in EPI for nine weeks. The tuition and campus fee for a short-term program is $285 per week. If you have questions, please send a message to epi-info@epi.sc.edu or call our office at (803) 777-3867.

See dates of the upcoming terms.

Application for Intensive English Program