Intensive English Program (IEP)

Program Overview

The Intensive English Program at North Seattle College (NSC) is designed for adult learners who need to improve their English language proficiency for collegelevel coursework, professional advancement, or personal enrichment. Classes are offered yearround, with flexible start dates and multiple instructional levels ranging from beginner to advanced (CEFR A1C1).

Curriculum & Courses

Students progress through a sequence of courses that build academic language skills while exposing them to U.S. college culture.

Core Academic English

• Academic Reading & Research Strategies for understanding textbooks, articles, and online resources.
• Academic Writing Paragraph development, essay structure, citation formats, and research papers.
• Listening & NoteTaking Comprehension of lectures, podcasts, and multimedia material.
• Speaking & Presentation Classroom discussion, group projects, and oral presentations.

Elective Modules (optional)

• Business English
• English for Healthcare Professionals
• Academic Success Workshops (study skills, time management)
• U.S. Culture & Campus Life

Each semester culminates in a proficiency assessment that determines placement for the next level or eligibility for transfer to a creditbearing program.

Admission Requirements & Process

Prospective students must meet the following basic criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old (or have a high school diploma/GED)
• Demonstrate a genuine need to improve English for academic or professional reasons
• Submit a completed online application
• Provide proof of identity (passport or state ID)
• Complete the placement test (online or oncampus)

Application Steps

1. Create an account on the NSC admissions portal.
2. Fill out the IEP application form and upload required documents.
3. Pay the nonrefundable application fee ($50).
4. Schedule your placement test (available in English, Spanish, and Mandarin).
5. Receive your placement results and register for courses.

International students must also submit a copy of their visa (F1, J1, or other) and proof of health insurance. The program accepts both domestic and international learners, and financial aid options are available for eligible U.S. residents.

Student Support Services

NSC is committed to helping IEP students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

• Academic Advising Oneonone guidance on course selection and transfer pathways.
• Library Resources Access to digital journals, ebooks, and research databases.
• English Labs Selfstudy stations equipped with language software.
• Career Center Resume writing workshops, interview practice, and jobsearch strategies.
• Counseling Services Confidential mentalhealth support and stressmanagement resources.
• Student Clubs & Events Language exchange meetups, cultural festivals, and community volunteering.

Contact Information

For more details, program schedules, or to speak with an advisor, please use the contact options below.

Or fill out the online inquiry form and we will reply within one business day.