Loyola University Chicago

English Language Learning Program

Loyola’s ESL program

Conditional Admission

Loyola University Chicago offers admission through the international conditional admission program (ICAP) for students who have demonstrated academic achievement, but who may need additional English language preparation and academic support in order to succeed in their English-taught courses. 
As part of the conditional admission program, Loyola pairs English as a second language coursework with specialized tutoring, the support of the University Writing Center, and personalized advising to help students refine the communication skills they need to be successful in their degree program.
The conditional admission program also provides students with pre-arrival advising, on-site orientation, cross-cultural events, and access to all university facilities, resources, and organizations to help make the transition to the U.S. and to academic life at Loyola as smooth as possible.
 
The International Conditional Admission Program is available for most degree programs, including*:
  • Undergraduate Studies (All Majors)
  • Department of Computer Science
  • Institute of Pastoral Studies
  • Quinlan School of Business
  • School of Communication
  • School of Law
If a student meets all other admissions requirements but does not meet the minimum English language proficiency score required for direct admission (as evidenced by their recent official TOEFL or IELTS score), they will be granted admission through the international conditional admission program (ICAP).  This type of conditional admission requires students to successfully complete one or more semesters of full-time enrollment (18 hours) in the English Language Learning Program (ELLP).  Students are placed in a set level of courses appropriate to their level of English at the time of application.  Initial level placement is determined by a required English language placement exam administered by the ELLP, along with any past TOEFL or IELTS scores a student may have.  Students must successfully complete all required ESL courses within the ELLP before being fully admitted to the University to begin degree coursework.
 
In order to successfully complete the ELLP, students must possess both of the following:
  • A minimum final grade of "B+" (87%) in all "Advanced" level ELLP classes
Students who have been admitted through the international conditional admission program (ICAP) and who have successfully completed the ELLP will not be required to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score for full admission into their degree-seeking program of study.
  
» Transition from ESL to Graduate Degree Programs
Programs available:
No TOEFL or IELTS score is required for graduate admission upon completing the following requirements within the English Language Learning Program (ELLP) at Loyola:
  • Completion of the ESL Advanced/Bridge-level classes with a minimum final grade of B+ (87%)