How can I get an I-20 from outside the United States?
If you are coming from outside the United States you need to send us the Application to the Program, the Application for the I-20, the application fee and original proof of finances (bank letter). After we receive the materials, please allow at least five to ten working days to process the application and prepare the I-20.
The I-20 can be mailed to someone inside the United States or picked up in person. If you wish us to send the package overseas, please contact Barbara Chapman (bchapman@fau.edu) with the following information: exact address where the package is being sent; whether it is a residential or business address; telephone number. She will email you the cost and you should include that amount with your application fee.
How can I get an I-20 for transfer if I am already in the United States studying?
Fill out the Application to the Program, the Application for the I-20 and follow the instructions on the Transfer Form. Send them to us along with the application fee, original proof of finances (bank letter) and a copy of your current I-20 and I-94.
If you will travel OUTSIDE the United States before arriving at the IEI, please let us know.
Can I fax my application?
Yes. However, we cannot release any papers until the application fee is paid and originals are here.
Can I bring my family?
Students who will be attending with F-1 status can bring their spouse (husband or wife) and their children as long as there is enough financial support for them. They would apply for F-2 status.
Who will the other students be?
Our students come from all over the world with over 50 countries being represented. Ages range from late teens to older students. Many are preparing for entrance into a U.S. university degree program or are taking time off from studies in their home country to improve their English.
How many hours a week will I attend class?
23 hours. Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m, Friday 9 a.m. to noon.
What about immunizations, health care and insurance?
Anyone born after 1956 must provide proof of immunization to measles and rubella (German measles). If documentation is not available, after you are here, you may have your blood drawn by Student Health Services for a fee to test for immunity.
Non-emergency health issues such as treatment for colds and flu may be handled at a local walk-in clinic. In case of life threatening emergencies or accidents, there are nearby hospitals.
All non-immigrant students must be covered by health insurance. You can purchase coverage through the University. If you wish private insurance, the Alternate Insurance Compliance form must be completed by your insurance company to see if its coverage is as good as or better than the minimum requirements on the Compliance form.
Where can I see a map to the campus and of the campus?
We offer six levels of English: Beginning, High Beginning, Low Intermediate, High Intermediate, Advanced I and Advanced II. Students with varying abilities might be given a "split" placement, meaning that they might have one level for some courses and another level for other courses.
How do you determine my level?
On the day of orientation, testing is also done. You will have an oral interview and your reading, writing, grammar and listening will also be tested.
What is the average class size?
Class size is 15 to 20.
Will I do any activities outside of class?
Our students participate in cultural events highlighting typical holidays in the U.S. such as Thanksgiving, field trips to local places of interest, and sporting events. These activities are designed to give our students the opportunity to use their new language in a more natural setting and to give them the chance to interact with students from many different cultures.
What is the difference between the Intensive English Institute and the PAR program?
The IEI accepts students of all levels (beginning to advanced) who wish to learn academic English in a university environment for personal, business, and/or university preparation purposes. One important distinction between the IEI and PAR is the fact that students who attend the PAR program have committed to enroll at FAU; in fact, PAR students must meet all university admission requirements for enrollment before entering the program.
Who can I contact with more questions?
Barbara Chapman, email: bchapman@fau.edu, or phone 561-297-0179.
