Student Resources

The Intensive English Center (IEC) at St. Cloud State University (SCSU) offers five (5) levels of English instruction for international students. Students who successfully complete Level 4 may matriculate to an undergraduate degree program. Students who successfully complete Level 5 may matriculate to a graduate degree program at St. Cloud State University.

Arrival: On arrival, students attend orientation, complete check-in, receive student ID cards, pay tuition and health insurance, and learn about campus services and immigration regulations. They also learn about different activities and student organizations that are designed for student success. Finally, students take an English Language Placement Test. The test helps determine the English language proficiency of the students, allowing the IEC to place the students in the level where they will be most successful.
English Language Placement Test: The English Language Placement Test is in two parts. The first part is an essay. Students are given 40 minutes to write an essay on a given topic. The second part of the test is a 45-minute multiple choice section which evaluates listening, grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension skills.
Classes: Fall and spring semesters are 15 weeks. The summer semester is 11 weeks. Every semester includes 300+ hours of instruction. Students study English 5 days a week, Monday through Friday. They take classes in Reading, Writing, Listening & Speaking, Grammar, Vocabulary, and Conversation. Depending on their level, they may also have classes in American Culture, Pronunciation, Oral Presentation, and Computer Technology. Some of the classes may have a language laboratory component for additional practice in pronunciation and spoken grammar. Students register for their classes after the required international student health insurance has been paid.
End of Semester: At the end of the semester, students take an Exit Test. This test measures the progress each student has made over the semester. It is similar to the English Language Placement Test given during orientation week.
Awards Ceremony: At the end of each semester, the IEC holds an Awards Ceremony. During the Awards Ceremony, students are encouraged to give speeches, perform a short skit, sing a song, or do something else as a way of showing others how much English they have learned. At the Awards Ceremony, students receive IEC transcripts. Students who pass their level receive certificates of attendance and letters of success.
Activities and Student Organizations: IEC students are encouraged to get involved with campus life. This is one of the best ways for students to improve their English skills and to learn more about American culture. Also, students who get involved in campus life are often more successful in their classes. The IEC offers several trips a year to points of interest in Minnesota, such as the Mall of America, the State Capitol, Native American museums, and more. The Center for International Studies (CIS) also offers cultural programs and activities. Students should check with the IEC and CIS for announcements about upcoming activities and trips.

IEC Resource Links

What happens after IEC?

Students who have completed the IEC program and enrolled on an F-1 visa, may follow this decision tree to figure out your next steps. Students are encouraged to contact the IEC office, International Admissions, or the Center for International Studies to discuss options.

Scenario 1: I do not want to continue my studies in the United States.
1. Notify your DSO in International Studies (CIS).There is a 60-day grace period after you complete your program to leave the country, change your visa status, or apply to a new program.
Scenario 2: I want to continue my studies at St. Cloud State University.
1. If you are conditionally admitted to a program, you will be contacted by International Admissions about a new I-20 for your degree program. If everything is up to date, you will get your new I-20 after the IEC Awards Ceremony. Contact International Admissions if you have questions. You will be required to attend International Student Orientation.
2. If you are not conditionally admitted to a program:
  - Undergraduate students should contact International Admissions as soon as possible. You will need to provide your degree program choice, original transcripts and diploma, and updated financial documents.
  - Graduate students should schedule a meeting with an advisor in the Graduate School office to discuss admission and next steps.
Scenario 3: I want to continue my studies in the United States, but at a different school.
1. If you are not admitted to another school, apply as soon as possible. Once admitted, you have a 60-day grace period after you complete your program to leave the country, change your visa status, or apply to a new program.
2. If/when you are admitted to another school, the following items must be completed within 60 days of the completion of the SCSU IEC program:
  - Contact your DSO at the Center for International Studies (CIS) at SCSU.
  - Complete SCSU's International Student and Scholar Services' transfer out form. You will need to upload your new school’s admission letter to this form. CIS will review your submission. This can take up to 7 days. You will be notified of your transfer out application status by e-mail. Once your SEVIS record is transferred, your new school will create your new I-20.