FAQ

Program Information

We offer two comprehensive English language programs:

More Information can be found in our website.
Program schedules and fees vary. Please refer to our website for specific details.
  • The Intensive English Program offers levels from Low Beginning to Advanced.
  • The Semi-Intensive Program offers levels from Basic II to Advanced.

Levels and electives availability depend on enrollment. We recommend early application to explore available options.

No, each session is designed for a specific proficiency level.

Learning outcomes vary. English language proficiency acquisition depends on individual learning styles and efforts. We recommend six months to a year for effective language learning.

The duration depends on the learner; however, we recommend considering anywhere from 6 months to a year for effective language acquisition.

There are no set minimum or maximum sessions. Students can enroll in multiple sessions based on their language learning goals.

Class sizes vary based on the program and level. Each class accommodates a maximum of 25 participants, ensuring smaller class sizes that facilitate personalized attention.

Transfers are subject to availability and program requirements. Contact our team for guidance.

Application Process

  1. Review program requirements and course deadlines on the webpage or email us at pewd@utrgv.edu for more information. 
  2. Submit the online application.
  3. Register for the English Placement Test (EPT) and take the test. (Intensive English Placement test: $100.00; Semi-Intensive English Placement test: $75.00). The English Placement Test is valid for 6 months.
  4. Process tuition payment based on the selected program.

Application deadlines vary by session. Check our website for specific deadlines and important dates.

No, an application is only required for new or returning students but not for continuing participants.

Intensive and Semi-Intensive English programs require a High School diploma or equivalent. Contact us for guidance if you do not meet the standard high school completion criteria.

Participants need to be 18 or older. Contact us for specific age-related inquiries.

All participants enrolled in English Language Programs under the age of 22 must submit evidence of receiving the meningitis vaccine or booster shot (administered within the past five years) or evidence of exemption before they can enroll.

After completing your application process, our team will share the link to process your online tuition payment.

  • Participants must be 18 years or older and have completed high school or its equivalent to register for a program.
  • U.S. Citizens or Resident Aliens should provide a copy of their birth certificate, resident alien card, or employment authorization letter.
  • International Students must apply for an F-1 visa.
  • Participants under specific visa categories may enroll in our program without requiring an F-1 visa. For further details on eligible visa categories, please contact our office at pewd@utrgv.edu.

International Students - F-1 Visa (Intensive and Semi-Intensive English Programs Only)

  • Must provide a recent Bank statement of account with sufficient funds to cover at least 6 months of expenses, including: tuition, books, housing, and health insurance; must be 30-45 days (about 1 and a half months) old from the application date.
  • Copy of passport (must be valid for at least 6 months).
  • If requirements are met, an email with your I-20 form will be sent by one of our Designated School Officials.
  • The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement requires all foreign students to complete an I-901 fee before making an appointment at the U.S. Consulate.
  • Fee $350
  • Please save and print your payment receipt.

Visa processing times vary. We recommend submitting your English Language Program application at least 4-6 months in advance of your intended program start date to complete the Visa process by the desired program start date. You can learn more about the Visa Appointment Wait Times here.

F-1 visa applicants may need to meet certain English language proficiency requirements. The English Placement Test is a requirement to identify whether you meet our program proficiency requirements. Email our office for specific details.

If your visa is denied, contact our office for guidance on the next steps.

Visa regulations can be complex. Contact our team for guidance on your specific situation.

International students on an F-1 visa have limited work options. You can learn more about employment regulations for F-1 students here.  Check with our office staff for details.

Consider making initial arrangements in a local hotel while you explore permanent housing options. For on-campus housing, visit UTRGV Residence Life. Additionally, there are various apartment options available near our locations to suit your preferences and needs.

Costs depend on the program's length. Plan for tuition, living expenses, books, supplies, and additional allowances.

We recommend bringing the tuition amount along with an additional $1,000 to $2,000 in U.S. currency. This does not include living expenses.

The Board of Regents of the UT-System schools requires international students enrolled in the Intensive English Program have medical insurance every session. The Board of Regents has granted an exception for Mexican Nationals attending our program. * Fee varies by session.

Important: You must complete purchase of your medical insurance at least three business days before the first day of class.

Once you are approved for your F-1 visa, UTRGV PEWD will send an email with detailed information to purchase your medical insurance or submit a waiver.

Health Care Coverage for International Students must be provided through a Patient Protection and the Affordable Care Act (PPACA) compliant individual or employer health plan that meets the minimum federal requirements for coverage for certain foreign exchange visitors set forth in 22 CFR 62.14 (b) and (c) and (d). You can review the information here.

Important: The submission of a waiver does not guarantee approval. Your medical insurance waiver must receive approval at least three business days before the first day of class.

Program Assistance

Our programs have an Early Bird Deadline with a discount for early tuition payment. Check program-specific webpage to learn more about this.

Programs do not have payment plans, financial aid, or scholarships available.

Program Logistics

The Program is in the UTRGV Community Engagement & Student Success Building in Edinburg. The Brownsville Program is in Saint Joseph Academy. Both are not on main campuses. You can access detailed maps for our locations here.

We are currently accepting registrations for Semi-Intensive in Brownsville. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply. For more information, contact us at pewd@utrgv.edu.

While there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to dress comfortably and modestly for classes. Classrooms are typically cold; a light sweater is recommended.

Student Services

Transportation is not included in the program cost. Intensive Program participants are required to have a V OneCard Student ID and can ride the UTRGV Vaquero bus.

Note: There is no direct stop at the CESS location or Saint Joseph Academy location. Explore Valley Metro or UTRGV Vaquero Express route options. You can also access the UTRGV Bus Tracker site here. Download Ride Systems mobile app.

Yes, a Zone 2 parking permit is required. For permit costs, please contact UTRGV Parking and Transportation at 956-665-2738. Mention that you are enrolled in an English Language Program located at UTRGV Community Engagement & Student Success (CESS) Building in Edinburg.

Yes, a separate membership must be purchased.

Yes, once enrolled in the program, you will be assigned UTRGV credentials to access the University’s Wi-Fi on your preferred device.

Yes, a device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop) is required for online quizzes and exams on Teams. You can use your UTRGV credentials to access the University’s Wi-Fi.

Students requiring academic accommodation should contact our office to learn about the process.

Yes, all students, employees and nonpaid affiliates of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley are required to have a V OneCard at all times while on university property. Please visit UTRGV Campus Card Services to learn how to obtain your V OneCard.

Yes, upon successful completion of the program, participants receive a digital certificate via Accredible. The certificate can be downloaded, saved, printed, or shared on social media platforms.

Library resources/services are only available to enrolled academic students.

Explore on-campus job opportunities through UTRGV Career Center. We encourage participants to prioritize their learning and development during their enrollment in English Language Programs.

*International students: refer to International Students: F-1 Visa section of this document.

Life in the Rio Grande Valley

With campuses in Brownsville, Edinburg, and Harlingen, UTRGV serves a dynamic region that is one of the fastest growing in Texas. Explore the Rio Grande Valley’s feature destinations here.