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TSU-IEC Frequently Asked Questions
1. Application and Admission
What is the Intensive English Center (IEC)?
The IEC at Tennessee 福利影院最新网址 helps non-native speakers improve their English for school, work, or personal goals.
Who can apply to the IEC program?
Anyone age 17 or older can apply. The program is open to international students, U.S. residents, and professionals.
Is the IEC part of Tennessee 福利影院最新网址?
Yes. The IEC is an official TSU program. Students can use university services and enjoy campus life.
Is admission to the Intensive English Center (IEC) the same as admission to TSU?
No, they are separate processes. The IEC teaches English to international students. Many students attend the IEC to meet the university's English requirement (TOEFL minimums: 61 UG, 71 Grad). Contact us for details.
Can I transfer to a TSU degree program after the IEC?
Yes. Many students continue at TSU for undergraduate or graduate programs. Finishing the IEC can meet TSU鈥檚 English requirement.
Do I need an English test score (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo)?
No. Test scores are not required for admission to the IEC program. If you already have a score, submitting it can help us better assess your current English level and place you in the right class.
How do I apply to the Intensive English Center (IEC)?
Applying is a two-part process: Application and Enrollment. Please read and follow the steps on the APPLY NOW page.
Is the application fee refundable?
No. The $40 fee is non-refundable.
What are the required documents for my application?听
Photo ID, diploma, and mailing address requirements.
When will I receive my Letter of Admission?
5-7 working days after all documents and payments are submitted.
2. Tuition, Fees, and Discounts
How much does the program cost?
Tuition and fees depend on the program and amount of hours you register for. Please check our fees page.
Are scholarships or financial aid available?
financial aid is not available. We do offer flexible payment options. And we have an In-state tuition discount for local students.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept online credit card payments and wire transfers from international institutions.
What is the full-time tuition for the IEP program?
$2,650
What is the cost of the part-time English program?
The cost of the part-time program depends entirely on the number of hours per week you enroll in (up to 18 hours maximum). We offer a General English Package (12 hours/week) for $1,450 per session. For all other part-time courses, please refer to the Part-Time Course Tuition Rate Card on the Tuition & Fees page.
What fees do all students have to pay?
$30 Activity Fee.
How do I qualify for the In-State Tuition Discount (Up to 50%)?
This discount is available to all accepted students at the IEC who meet the following criteria: they must be U.S. Citizens, Green Card Holders, Asylum Seekers, or Refugees; have a valid and active status with USCIS; and have resided in Tennessee for at least 1 year. All students with the In-State Discount must pay the course materials fee and the activity fee in addition to the tuition fee ($50 to $180).
When is the tuition payment deadline?
Friday before the session begins deadline. There is a $100 late fee if paid late.
3. Visa and Financial Requirements (F-1 Students)
Does the IEC help students obtain an F-1 Visa?
Yes, we provide guidance. We can guide you through the process to obtain your F-1 Visa for our Intensive English Program. For B, J, or H Visas, we can provide general guidance on that process as well.
What additional documents do F-1 visa students need to submit?
Bank statement/affidavit and health forms.
When will I receive my Form I-20?
The I-20 is sent after the application and financial documents are approved.
Can I transfer my I-20 from another school?
Yes. Ask your current school's DSO to release your I-20. Then the IEC must accept it before we give you a new I-20.
What is the difference between visa expiration and I-20 expiration?
Your visa is for entering the U.S. Your I-20 is for staying as a student. If your visa expires, you can still stay in the U.S. if your I-20 is valid.
What are the steps to apply for my F-1 student visa after acceptance?
After you receive your I-20, you must pay your SEVIS fee. Once paid, you will contact the U.S. Embassy to make your visa appointment. We will send you a complete list of steps to continue your visa process. Feel free to contact us with any questions.
What should I do after my F-1 visa is approved?
Instruct the student to email the IEC to confirm their Placement Test appointment.
Can I take a vacation? When am I eligible?
Yes, after studying full-time for one year (four sessions). You must ask for approval first.
What happens if I fall out of status?
Talk to your DSO right away. You may apply for reinstatement or you may need to leave the U.S. Staying out of status can cause problems for studying or returning later.
4. Enrollment, Placement, and Attendance
How do I apply?
Apply online in our web page. You will need to complete the application form, pay the $40.00 application fee, a copy of your passport, a copy of your high school diploma or higher, and a financial statement (for F-1 visa students).
Is there an application deadline?
Yes. Deadlines are different for each session. Apply at least 6-8 weeks before your start date, especially if you need a visa. If you are applying for the In-state discount, you must complete your documents before the placement test date.
When can I begin the Intensive English Program?
We offer continuous enrollment. Students can join classes at any time. After you take the placement test, we will place you in a class that fits your level and schedule. If a class is not available, we can offer private tutoring or place you on a waiting list.
When does the session officially begin?
The session begins with the Orientation Session.
How is my starting English level determined?听 What is the IEC Placement Test?
If you are enrolling in our Intensive English Program, you must make an appointment for a placement test (unless you are at the introductory course). The test evaluates your English skills and guides us to the appropriate course for your enrollment.
Can I choose my own courses?
F-1 and Full-Time students must take all classes at their assigned level.
Can I enroll as a part-time student?
Only if you're a U.S. resident or citizen.听F-1 visa holders are required by U.S. immigration regulations to be full-time students. Some other visa types may allow for part-time enrollment. Please contact our office if you have questions regarding your specific visa type.
How long will it take me to learn English?
Learning speed depends on your individual effort and commitment. We provide the high-quality classes and also guide you to activities in and around Nashville to promote full English immersion and accelerate your learning process.
What is the refund policy if I need to withdraw?
100% before Day 1, 75% Day 1-5, 25% Day 6-10, No refund after day 10.
What levels of English are offered?
We offer classes from beginner to advanced, including academic English.
How long is each session?
Each session lasts 7 weeks. Students can take as many sessions as they need.
How many hours are classes each week?
Full time students will have 22 hours of class per week; part-time students could have between 4 and 18 hours of class per week.
What skills are taught?
We teach speaking, listening, reading, writing, grammar, and academic English.
5. Student Life and Campus Logistics (Support)
Do IEC students have access to campus facilities?
Yes. You can use the library, dining hall, computer labs, Wi-Fi, and student clubs. You can also attend all events offered to TSU students as football games and our amazing Grammy Award winner, Aristocrat of Bands presentations.
Do you have a student activities program?
Yes! We are constantly planning trips and activities both on and off campus. Our goal is to help students learn about American culture and interact with native English speakers in a safe, fun environment.
What support is available for IEC students?
We offer academic advising, immigration help, counseling, and health services through TSU.
Does the IEC at TSU provide computers or Wi-Fi for student use?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for all TSU students. Students may use the computers at the Library and other locations on campus. We do encourage students to bring their own laptop to school.
Can I park my car on campus?
Yes, but you will need to purchase a TSU student parking permit beforehand. Parking without the proper permit may result in an expensive ticket or towing charge.
Should I bring my medication prescriptions?
Yes. Students taking prescription medication should bring enough to last through the entire program. Medication must be transported in its original packaging along with a copy of the prescription.
Do you have any other questions?听Contact Us