The ELS Experience
Learn what you can expect from the leader in English language instruction
For over 50 years, students have chosen ELS to achieve their English language goals. With 12 class levels, state-of-the-art language technology centers, multiple testing services and university admission assistance, ELS ensures success through our personalized approach and commitment to student achievement.
More Than Just English… Have fun and make friends!
You'll learn so much more than just English with ELS. Your time at ELS will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. Learn English and American culture both inside and outside of the classroom.ELS Students Speak - About Traveling & Shopping in NYC
I love ELS school. They are very professional, very well organized. They have many programs you can choose. Nice teachers and good friends make me feel like home. I love the people here in New York. They are nice and friendly very where you go.
Kamonrat Ladseeta
The teachers and classes at ELS Portland are very good. The teachers correct my work and help me with my mistakes. The communication classes help me with my everyday conversation. The Chinese restaurants in Portland are delicious, especially the Sushi!
Kyung Mi Jung, South Korea
ELS Students Speak - About Visiting the Statue of Liberty
Because NY is a multicultural city, you can meet people from a lot of different counties and you can learn many things about their cultures. My favorite thing about studying English in NY is that this city gives you a lot of topics to discuss in class. I love ELS because I can make friends from other countries and learn English.
Victoria González Graells
My host family at ELS Portland is so nice. They help me improve my English everyday. I’m able to use new grammar in my daily life. There’s no tax in Portland, so the shopping is really good too! I’ve been to many places in Oregon. The ocean and mountains are beautiful!
Hsueh-Chen Wang, Taiwan
Read about each of our one-of-a-kind offerings below. More detailed information is available in the section devoted exclusively to that topic:
Quality of Instruction
ELS educators are recognized throughout the world for their active participation in the global learning community. With continued training and advanced graduate degrees, our instructors hold high standards to ensure student success. Read more here.
Classes & Levels
Twelve class levels, ranging from beginner to advanced, help students learn all aspects of English including listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation. Discover how ELS teaches you English at the pace you need in our classes and levels section.
Language Technology Centers
Students in any ELS program experience computer-supported learning through our Language technology centers (LTCs). LTCs combine an individualized learning plan with computer-based instruction through state-of-the-art personal computers. Discover more about LTCs here.
Testing Services
Any student who begins a program with ELS is required to take our Pre-Arrival test. ELS offers this test through many of its international locations. Test preparation and assistance is also available for the TOEFL® iBT, IELTSTM and TOEIC® exams. Learn more about ELS testing services including the prestigious CELTA certificate, a designation awarded to adults looking to teach English anywhere in the world.
University Admissions
Each year ELS helps thousands of students gain admission to US colleges and universities. Learn how you can gain acceptance to a US university through successful completion of ELS' English for Academic Purposes program.

