The ESL Academy
The ESL Academy | Northeastern State University
Welcome to the ESL Academy at Northeastern State University (NSU). The ESL Academy offers high-quality English language instruction for non-native speakers who wish to improve their English for academic, professional, and personal goals.
Our program prepares students for successful study at NSU or other American institutions of higher education while helping them build confidence in communication, academic skills, and intercultural understanding.
Mission Statement
The ESL Academy at Northeastern State University provides comprehensive postsecondary-level English language and cultural instruction to non-native speakers. In alignment with the mission of Northeastern State University, the Academy prepares students for successful admission to and academic achievement at NSU or other American institutions of higher education. The program supports students’ academic and professional goals by fostering high proficiency in English, familiarity with American academic culture and processes, and continuous development through systematic assessment and student support.
Faculty
Our faculty have advanced degrees in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, or closely related fields and have experience teaching English for Academic Purposes at the postsecondary level.
Programs
English Language Fundamentals program
This program is offered to individuals living in the Northeastern portion of Oklahoma (Tulsa, Tahlequah, etc.) who are not seeking a university degree but are interested in enhancing their English skills. This course focuses on the four core language skills (speaking, listening, writing and reading), and is often tailored to meet the immediate needs of the students. Lessons are contextualized within a professional or social setting as dictated by the students’ preferences . This is a short-term course that meets for 3 hours a week.
For more information on the Program, Click Here
Intercultural Support Program
This program is designed for full-time international students on the main campus. We offer various workshops every semester to support our international students.
Depending on student need, we offer a free one-hour workshop for which students should sign-up. The ESL Academy usually offers two workshops per semester. We have offered the following workshops: “Writing Professional Emails: Tips and Strategies” and “Creating a compelling marketing campaign.”
Interested in a workshop? Complete the following questionnaire.
Follow us on our social media for updates on our workshops. Facebook & Instagram
Intensive English Program (IEP)
The Intensive English Program is a non-credit university-based English program designed for students who need to improve their English before entering academic degree programs.
Students develop skills in:
- Academic reading
- Academic writing
- Listening and note-taking
- Speaking and presentations
- Grammar and vocabulary
- Pronunciation
- Study skills
- American academic culture
The program follows the NSU academic calendar and is typically offered during Fall and Spring semesters.
Program Structure at a Glance
|
Feature |
Information |
|
Program type |
Intensive English Program (IEP) |
|
Credit-bearing |
No |
|
Format |
In-person |
|
Length of semester |
16 weeks |
|
Hours per week |
Approximately 20 hours |
|
Typical terms |
Fall and Spring |
|
Number of levels |
3 (elementary, intermediate, intermediate High) |
|
Core skill areas |
Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking |
|
Other instructional focus |
Grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, academic skills, American academic culture |
|
Placement tool |
TOEFL ITP |
LEVELS
|
Level |
CEFR Band |
TOEFL ITP Score Range |
|
Elementary |
A1–A2 |
337 and below |
|
Intermediate |
B1 |
338–460 |
|
Intermediate High |
B2 |
461–543 |
Students normally complete one level per semester.
A student beginning at the Elementary level typically completes the full program in
three semesters.
Placement Testing
All newly admitted IEP students take the TOEFL ITP for placement.
Placement Process
|
Step |
Description |
|
1 |
Student is admitted |
|
2 |
Student receives orientation instructions |
|
3 |
Student takes TOEFL ITP |
|
4 |
ESL Academy reviews results |
|
5 |
Student is placed into correct level |
Courses
Students take courses in:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
Elective courses may be offered based on need, such as:
- English Grammar
- TOEFL Preparation
- Academic Culture and Conversation
Pricing Structure
ONE-TIME COSTS
|
Item |
Cost |
|
International Student Application Fee |
$25 (currently waived) |
|
International Student Orientation |
$50 |
|
Subtotal |
$50 |
ESTIMATED COSTS (PER SEMESTER)
|
Item |
Cost |
|
Tuition |
$4,280 |
|
Placement Testing |
$80 (subject to change) |
|
Books and Materials |
$560 (subject to change) |
|
Medical Insurance |
$550 (subject to change) |
|
Subtotal |
$5,470 |
OPTIONAL ON-CAMPUS HOUSING
|
Item |
Cost |
|
Room |
$1,990 (and up) |
|
Meal Plan |
$2,580 (and up) |
|
Subtotal |
$4,570 |
Total Estimated Costs
$10,040 (per semester)
$20,130 (per year)
Housing
Students may choose:
- On-campus residence halls
- Off-campus apartments
The ESL Academy provides guidance, but students arrange housing independently.
Orientation and Student Support
Before Arrival
Students receive information about admissions, placement, and program expectations.
Orientation
- ESL Academy orientation (placement, expectations, program requirements)
- Office of International Programs International Student Orientation (immigration, university policies, campus adjustment)
Ongoing Support
- Academic advising (placement and course progression)
- Program guidance and communication
- Cultural and academic activities
When needed, students are referred to appropriate university services.
ADVISING
- Academic advising: ESL Academy
- Immigration advising: Office of International Programs
- Additional support: Referral to university services
Note: As a non-credit program, services are primarily program-specific, with additional support provided through university offices.
Health Insurance
All international students must have valid health insurance.
Students must:
- Provide proof at orientation
- Maintain coverage during enrollment
- Purchase insurance if they arrive without coverage
Admission Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- ESL Academy application
- High school transcripts (translated)
- WES evaluation (if applicable)
- Financial document
- Passport copy
Immigration Documents
The Office of International Programs issues the I-20 after reviewing admission documents. Email: international@nsuok.edu
If you have further questions, contact us at esl@nsuok.edu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about IEP
The ESL Academy Intensive English Program is a non-credit, university-based English program for non-native speakers who want to improve their English for academic study and professional goals.
The IEP has three levels: Elementary (A1–A2), Intermediate (B1), and Intermediate High (B2).
Students are placed using the TOEFL ITP, which is administered through the NSU Testing Center.
The IEP follows NSU’s academic calendar. Each semester is 16 weeks long.
Students making normal and satisfactory progress usually complete one level per semester. A student beginning at the first level would normally complete the program in about three academic semesters.
Students take courses in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Elective courses may also be offered based on student need, interest, and enrollment.
Yes. Health insurance is required for international students, including ESL Academy students.
Academic advising is provided by the ESL Academy.
Applicants generally need the ESL Academy application, translated high school transcripts, a WES evaluation if applicable, a financial document, and a passport copy.
The ESL Academy is located in Wilson Hall 352 on the Tahlequah campus.
For all other inquiries, contact:
Dr. Svetlana Koltovskaia
Director, ESL Academy
Wilson Hall 352
Northeastern State University
Phone: 918-444-3613
Email: esl@nsuok.edu / koltovsk@nsuok.edu
$20,130
ESL Academy Contact Info
ESL Academy
Wilson 352
Northeastern State University
Phone: 918-444-3613
Email: esl@nsuok.edu
Required Admission Documents
Thank you for choosing the ESL Academy at Northeastern State University!
To apply to the ESL Academy Intensive English Program, please prepare the following documents:
- A copy of high school transcripts with an official English translation
- WES Credential Evaluation for transfer or graduate students who have earned college credit outside the United States
- Bank document showing a minimum balance of $20,130 (USD)
- A copy of your passport
The ESL Academy will review your documents and forward them to the Office of International Programs, which is responsible for issuing immigration documents.
Please note that Northeastern State University may require additional financial certification or advance payment of tuition and fees for students whose financial support originates in countries with significant currency restrictions.
Why Choose Northeastern State University?
Northeastern State University is recognized for providing high-quality education at an affordable cost. NSU offers a supportive learning environment, experienced faculty, and a welcoming campus community that helps international students succeed academically and personally. Learn more about NSU here
The City of Tahlequah
Tahlequah is located in the scenic foothills of the Ozark Mountains and serves as the capital of the Cherokee Nation. The city offers a safe and friendly environment with many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, kayaking, and exploring natural parks.
Tahlequah is also conveniently located about one hour from Tulsa and Northwest Arkansas, giving students access to larger metropolitan areas while enjoying a peaceful college-town atmosphere. Learn more about Tahlequah here.
Program Resources
To support transparency and provide access to important program information, the ESL Academy provides online resource folders for both faculty and students.
Faculty Resources
Access program policies, instructional resources, and administrative documentation
here:
ESL Academy Faculty Resource Folder
Student Resources
Access important student information, forms, and academic support materials here:
ESL Academy Student Resource Folder