English as a Second Language (ESL)

• Full-time, intensive instruction (5 classes - 20 hours per week, for 16 weeks, each semester) accelerates the language acquisition and learning experience.
• Advanced level ESL classes count toward a bachelor degree at MU (up to 19 credits).
• Students do not need TOEFL scores to be admitted. 
• Students have an opportunity to test out of the Intensive ESL Program at the end of each semester based on qualifying exit scores.
• Small classes provide one-on-one teacher-student interaction and support.
• Academic support including free ESL tutoring and supplemental instruction support students’ specific language needs
• Reduced tuition for low intermediate and high intermediate level classes makes studying ESL at MU very affordable.
• Students live on campus in newly built Residence Halls. No need to worry about finding a place to live off campus.
• American culture and language immersion opportunities on and off campus provide ESL students unique experiences in exploring area attractions such as Greenfield Village, Broadway in Detroit, Cedar, Renaissance Festival, Detroit Auto Show, and major leagues sport events.
• Award winning ESL Conversation Partners Program (campus program of the year) provides language practice and promotes inter-cultural understanding and awareness.  
• Community service opportunities.   

Students with no TOEFL scores can take an English placement test upon arrival on campus to determine their English proficiency skills. 

The following dates are available for the placement test for fall 2024-2025 term:

ESL Placement Testing | Fall 2024-25
Date	Day	Time	Location
Week of August 19, 2024 or by arrangement	TBD	TBD	TBD

- Registration required in advance. To register, email hbetti@madonna.edu.

- Fee: $25. 

Do I need TOEFL to be admitted to Madonna University?

No, but in that case you must take M.U.’s institutional English Placement Test on campus to demonstrate your proficiency in the English language. Based on the test results, you are placed in courses commensurate with your English proficiency levels.

Are ESL courses offered year round?

ESL courses are part of the academic calendar. They meet during fall and winter semesters for 16 weeks. Each class meets twice a week for 2 hours. American Culture and Language Immersion meets for 4 hours on Fridays.

Are ESL courses “for credit”?

The credits of 4000 advanced level ESL courses (a total of 19 semester hours of ESL course work) may count as electives toward the 120 hours necessary for a baccalaureate degree. ALL ESL course grades are calculated into the overall Madonna University grade point average.

How many ESL courses do I have to take?

It depends on the placement test results. Students have an opportunity to test out of the Intensive ESL Program at the end of each semester. Occasionally, students are exempted from ESL courses because their level is equal to a TOEFL iBT score of 70/120 (undergraduate) or 80/120 (graduate) and a TWE of 5.

Are ESL classes Pass/Fail?

No, the same grading policy applies to ESL as to other courses.

Do you provide tutoring?

Yes, the Writing Center and the Center for Personalized Instruction provide individual tutoring.

Do I need a writing test?

Yes. If you plan to take the TOEFL, you must also register for the TWE (Test of Written English). If you take the M.U. placement test, a written test will be included. If you take the TOEFL without the TWE, you will be tested for your writing proficiency at Madonna University.