A world-class institute of changemakers in the deaf and signing community.
Since 1864, we have been investing in and creating resources for deaf and hard of hearing children, their families, and the professionals who work with them.
Over 50 degree programs, with online and continuing education for personal and professional development.
Innovating solutions to break down barriers, and using science to prove what does and doesn’t work.
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Hall Memorial Building (HMB) E253
(202) 250-2606 (videophone) (202) 651-5721 (voice)
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The mission of the Gallaudet University's English Language Institute (ELI) is to provide an intensive English as a Second Language program for American and international deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Bilingual instruction in both American Sign Language and written English provides a multicultural environment for ELI students to achieve academic, professional, and personal language goals.
The English Language Institute (ELI) is a sub-unit of the Department of World Languages and Cultures. ELI provides full-time instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL), American Sign Language (ASL), and cross cultural studies to international and American deaf and hard of hearing adults. Intensive study, throughout the academic year (late August to mid-May), helps students become proficient in English in order to qualify for admission to Gallaudet or another university in the United States. This program also enhances their employment potential.
Gallaudet University is the world's only liberal arts university serving primarily deaf and hard of hearing students. Established in 1864, Gallaudet has grown from a small college to a multifaceted university and the world's greatest resource on deafness. Located in the heart of Washington DC, Gallaudet offers academic programs leading to undergraduate and graduate degrees in many fields.
Gallaudet University is an equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, hearing status, disability, covered veteran status, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, source of income, place of business or residence, pregnancy, childbirth, or any other unlawful basis.
The English Language Institute at Gallaudet University is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA) for the period December 2019 through December 2029 and agrees to uphold the CEA Standards for English Language Programs and Institutions. CEA is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency for English language programs and institutions in the U.S. For further information about this accreditation, please contact the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation, 1001 N. Fairfax St., Suite 630, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 665-3400, www.cea-accredit.org.
Below are links to the standards and complaint policy of the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA), which is the accreditation agency for the English Language Institute:
https://cea-accredit.org/about-cea/standards
https://cea-accredit.org/about-cea/complaints
https://cea-accredit.org/about-cea/policies-and-procedures
https://cea-accredit.org/images/2020_docs_and_handbooks/Section_15_Complaints.pdf
If you are interested in applying to the English Language Institute, we would like you to contact us. We can communicate with you about your potential educational future. For example, when you complete your language studies at the English Language Institute, you could apply to the undergraduate or the graduate school here at Gallaudet University.
Admissions Requirements
Spring 2021 – Dec 12Fall 2021 – May 15