English Language Students (Non-Degree)

Study English at a research university with an active student community, in a region filled with scenic lakes and waterfalls.

Courses

Inside the classroom, we offer personalized attention from instructors, allowing for tailored feedback and support to individual student needs. Students are matched with an RIT conversation partner, allowing for scheduled time to practice speaking and conversation skills. Learn more

Outside the Classroom

Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom.

The English Language Center provides you with opportunities to practice your English in a variety of real-life situations and be immersed in American culture.

Conversation Partner Program
One-on-one or small group experiences for students of different linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Weekly Activities and Events
Co-hosted events with other RIT students and Rochester community groups. Bowling parties, soccer matches, tickets to RIT sporting events.

RIT-led Day Trips
Niagara Falls, state parks, museums, sports events, and other local attractions.

Seasonal Activities
Summer picnics, barbecues in beautiful local parks, winter sports such as skiing and ice-skating.

Sports and Exercise
Access to a fitness center, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor tracks, and swimming pools.

Dates and Costs

Non-degree English language students can join the program during any of our three semesters: Fall (August-December), Spring (January-May), or the short summer semester (July).

Students may study for one term, one year, or more! Students who are applying for an F-1 study visa must be able to show funding (in a bank statement or sponsorship letter) for their planned length of study. Review the dates and costs below to determine the overall cost of your planned length of stay.

Summer 2026 Dates:

Deadline for F-1 visa holders to submit English test scores and complete pre-arrival checklist, May 25, 2026
ELC Orientation (optional): July 2, 2026
ELC classes begin: July 6, 2026
Classes end: July 31, 2026

Fall 2026 Dates:

Deadline for F-1 visa holders to submit English test scores and complete pre-arrival checklist: July 17, 2026
ELC Orientation: August 21, 2026
ELC classes begin: August 24, 2026
ELC classes end: December 7, 2026

Spring 2027 Dates:

Deadline F-1 visa to submit English test scores and complete pre-arrival checklist: December 4, 2026.
ELC Orientation: January 8, 2027
ELC classes begin: January 11, 2027
Classes end: April 26, 2027

English language study expenses for one semester:

Full-time English language program tuition:	$8,736
Housing and meals:	$8,375 est.
Health Center fee:	$300 est
Health insurance:	$1,916 est.
Books and materials:	$350 est.
Total:	$19,677

English language study expenses for one academic year:

Full-time English language program tuition:	$17,472
Housing and meals:	$16,570 est.
Health Center fee:	$600 est.
Health insurance:	$3,094 est.
Books and materials:	$700 est.
Total:	$38,616

English language study expenses for in-person summer program:

View Summer Study dates and information

Full-time English language program tuition:	$6,552
Housing and meals:	$2,100 est.
Health Center fee:	$300 est.
Health insurance:	$750 est.
Books and materials:	$350
Total:	$10,052
Total estimated costs for a full year of study One academic year (fall and spring only): One full calendar year (fall, spring, and summer):	$38,616 - fall start only $47,981 - can start any term

Placement and Testing

ELC accepts students at all English levels. Students must take an English exam in advance as part of the ELC application process.

ELC students are placed into levels according to international English exams. Especially for beginner and intermediate students, the DET (Duolingo English Test) is recommended. Students may also take the RIT English Language Exam online.

Learn more about the RIT English Language Exam