(IELI) is part of Continuing Education Programs at Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY), offering courses in English as a Second Language (ESL) in the heart of Manhattan since 1950. The IELI offers courses ranging from Beginner English to Bridge-to-College Level English. We enroll New York City residents, visitors on tourist visas, diplomats, and international students with the aim of preparing students to enter American college or university and business situations by developing accuracy, fluency, and confidence. We are authorized to issue I-20 forms required to get F1 student visa. View the Catalog (PDF).
IELI Scholarship
Become an IELI student by March 14 and get $1,500 scholarship when you sign up for two consecutive semesters.
ESL for International Students, F1 Student Visa, TOEFL prep, SEVP approved school
International English Language Institute (IELI)

Program Information
- What special offers do you have?At the IELI, we’re dedicated to making your path to mastering English as smooth as possible. To help you get started, we’re offering exclusive financial support options for new students. These limited-time opportunities are designed to make your experience more accessible and affordable. Learn more about how you can take advantage of this offer and start your language learning journey with us.
- Who are IELI students? The IELI is truly international and has students from all over the world. If you are preparing to enter university or graduate school, living and working in New York, or just visiting New York for a short time, we can help you develop fluency, accuracy and confidence in using English. See scholarship opportunities
- Who is our Faculty? All hold a Master's degree in Teaching English as a Second Language or a closely related field. They use multimedia, the internet, Hunter's computer labs and library, and New York City's cultural resources to prepare students for their future academic, social, and professional lives. Meet the IELI Faculty
- Where is the IELI?Hunter College is located in the heart of Manhattan's Upper East Side. We're convenient to public transportation, Central Park, shopping, restaurants, museums and theaters. The IELI's office is on the 10th floor in the East Building, at 68th Street and Lexington Avenue. Explore the Hunter College campus
- When can I study at the IELI?The IELI has weekday morning, afternoon, and evening classes. We also have a Saturday morning and afternoon program. Private lessons can be arranged at your convenience.