You may find the answer to a specific question you have about the ESL Transition Program and entry to Pacific Lutheran University on this page.
- ESL Transition Program
- Your university degree
- Entry requirements
- English language level
- Fees
- Dates
- Applying for PLU
- Pre-arrival (insurance, visas, travel, etc)
- Contacting us
About the ESL Transition Program
Who is the course designed for?
The English Transition Program is a pathway for international students who want to study at University in the USA. You must meet all the University's requirements for degree admission, except the undergraduate or graduate TOEFL requirement. The English Transition Program will improve your language proficiency to the level required for a Pacific Lutheran University degree.
How long is the English Transition Program?
This depends on how quickly you make progress, and your level of English on entry. Most students reach the appropriate level of English proficiency in one or two semesters.
What will I study on the English Transition Program?
As well as English language (listening and speaking, reading and vocabulary, writing and grammar,) you will also develop practical study skills, and learn about American Culture. As your English improves, you can take one University academic credit class alongside your Transition Program, with permission from your student advisor.
Where is the English Transition Program taught?
Transition classes are taught on the Pacific Lutheran University campus, at the International Study Center (ISC). You will study alongside American and other international students at the University.
How will I be assessed during the English Transition Program?
Small class sizes mean your instructors are able to monitor your progress carefully and know when you are ready for academic courses. You will create an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) to ensure maximum success within the program. This includes monthly grade reports and active advising coordinated with the staff at Pacific Lutheran University.
How will I know when I'm ready to transition to a degree?
At the end of the semester, you will be recommended for full-time study on your degree program if you have:
- passed all of your Transition courses
- completed your academic portfolio
- reached the target English Language level (equivalent of TOEFL iBT 79 for undergraduate, or iBT 88 for the MBA program)
The Academic Affairs office at Pacific Lutheran University makes the final decision of when you are allowed to transition into your degree program.
Who runs the PLU English Transition Program?
The English Transition Program is run and operated by Study Group, global experts in university preparation and international education, in partnership with Pacific Lutheran University .
How many hours of study are there per week?
This will vary depending on how many credit classes you can take and your level of English, but you will be on a full timetable with approximately 18-26 academic hours of class time per week.
Can I use campus facilities while on the Transition Program?
Yes! You will be a fully enrolled Pacific Lutheran University student, and have full access to all campus facilities including borrowing rights at the library, entry to student clubs and organizations and the ability to apply for a job on campus. Note that Phase I students may be restricted from certain activities due to English language and safety requirements.
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Your University degree
Am I guaranteed progression to a degree at Pacific Lutheran University?
Yes. On entering the English Transition Program, you have the peace of mind of knowing that you have met the academic entry requirement for a Pacific Lutheran University degree. You will receive a n offer for a degree that is conditional upon your English language proficiency increasing to the standard required by PLU, by completion of the English Transition Program. Your visa is issued for the entire duration of your studies.
Which degrees can I study at the university?
After the Transition Program undergraduate students can choose from a range of 4-year Bachelors' degrees. Graduate students progress to an MBA degree.
How can I find out about the degree courses?
Links to more information about all of Pacific Lutheran University's degrees can be found on the college's online Undergraduate Catalog and MBA pages.
How long are undergraduate University degrees in the USA?
Baccalaureate programs in the United States generally take four years to complete. Read more about the structure of undergraduate degrees in America.
How long is the MBA program at PLU?
PLU's MBA is a part-time evening program that is designed to be completed in five terms (20-22 months).
When can I begin studying my Pacific Lutheran University degree?
During phase 2 of the Transition Program, you can take one class (for 4 credits) towards your degree. You will move into full-time degree study when you have reached the language level required for degree entry (see English Language FAQ).
When do I have to choose the degree I want to study?
You must indicate your preferred degree when you apply for the ESL Transition Program. Your English Transition Program application form is also your Pacific Lutheran University degree application. However, there will be opportunities to change your major once you have started studying at Pacific Lutheran University.
Entry requirements
How do I qualify for the English Transition Program?
You must meet all the entry requirements for your chosen degree program except the standard Pacific Lutheran University TOEFL requirement (see English Language FAQ).
What are the academic entry requirements for a PLU bachelor's degree?
A minimum academic background of high school graduation with the equivalent of 3.0 GPA (Grade Point Average). Contact us to find out if your qualification is accepted.
What are the academic entry requirements for PLU's MBA degree?
Minimum Grade Point Average of 3.0, completion of a Bachelor's degree program from an accredited university, GMAT score of 500 (or GRE 1000). Contact us to find out if your qualification is accepted.
How old do I have to be to start the program?
Students must be at least 17 years-of-age on commencement of the Transition Program.
Can international students apply?
Yes, the ESL Transition Program at PLU is designed for international students who need to improve their English before a degree. You must be a non-American citizen, ordinarily resident outside the USA.
Can US students apply?
Unfortunately we do not accept applications from US citizens.
English Language level
What level of English language do I need to enter the English Transition Program?
You must have a minimum English level of the equivalent of TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) 32, PBT (paper-based test) 400 or CBT (computer-based test) 97.
Do I need to take an IELTS or TOEFL exam?
No. An official TOEFL or IELTS score is not required.
How can I find out my English Language level?
If you have not taken the TOEFL or IELTS exam, we will determine your English level with our test before you arrive at Pacific Lutheran University. We can assess your approximate English Language level from this test.
What level of English language do I need for a PLU degree?
For entry to an undergraduate PLU degree, you need to show you have the equivalent English level of TOEFL iBT 79 (CBT 213, PBT 550). For entry to the MBA, you need to show you have the equivalent English level of TOEFL iBT 88 (CBT 230, PBT 570).
Fees
What are the fees for Pacific Lutheran University?
Tuition fees in US dollars (USD) are shown on the fees page for both the English Transition Program, and for your degree program. Tuition fees are likely to rise each intake. An additional $500 service fee is incurred if you wish to pay your fees in two installments.
Can I get a scholarship?
We do not offer scholarships for the English Transition Program. The prices listed already include our international student discount which we extend to all international applicants. Unfortunately Study Group cannot offer you any further discounts on our price. We encourage you to contact:
- the Financial Aid Office of Pacific Lutheran University to enquire about the financial aid available to international students.
- your relevant government agency to inquire about international study scholarships or student loans.
- the US embassy in your home country.
What bank account should fees be paid into?
Bank name: Bank of America
Bank address: 1185 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036 (USA)
Account name: Study Group
Account number: 9417-201482
ABA Routing number: 0260-0959-3
SWIFT code: BOFAUS3N
More information on payment of fees can be found in our Terms and Conditions.
What is included in the fees?
Information about what the all-inclusive fee covers can be found on the fees page.
When are the fees payable?
Once you accept your offer of a place, we require a deposit of $500 in order to release your immigration documents. The remaining fees can either be paid in two installments, one month prior to the start of semester, or in full in advance if preferred. Delayed payments incur a $500 late fee.
How can fees be paid?
We accept payment by Bank transfer, check or Bank Draft drawn in US dollars, or by the following credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Payments made by credit card after the due date will be subject to a fee of 2% of the total program value unless you have paid for an optional payment plan.
Do I get a refund if I cancel my place?
If you do not meet visa entry requirements, a full refund will be given. A cancellation fee is charged if visa entry requirements have been met. For details see our Terms and Conditions.
Dates
When can I start the English Transition Program?
In spring semester (February) or fall semester (September) each year.
What is the Pacific Lutheran University academic calendar?
| Semester | Start date | End date |
| Fall 2010 | September 7 | December 17 |
| Spring 2011 | February 8 | May 27 |
| Fall 2011 | September 6 | December 16 |
| Spring 2012 | February 8 | May 25 |
When can I start my Pacific Lutheran University degree?
You move onto your degree program in February or September following completion of all Transition courses and having reached the required English level for degree study. The timing depends on the rate of your progress but most students start full-time degree study one or two semesters after they join the English Transition Program. However, you may be able to take one credit class towards your degree in Phase 2 of the Transition Program.
Applying
How do I apply to Pacific Lutheran University?
You can apply for the Transition Program, or for direct entry to a PLU degree, through Study Group. You can submit your application in two ways:
- Download the application form, complete it electronically, and fax or email it back to us.
- Contact our Student Enrollment Advisors using the online form to ask a question first
What happens after I submit my application?
You will be required to submit supporting documents including all relevant academic transcripts and certificates of English language qualifications. Read about the steps in the admissions process.
Who will help me with my application?
One of our team of expert Student Enrollment Advisors will support you with your application and with the visa process right up until you arrive at the College. Read more in the Contacting us FAQs.
When will I receive the documentation required for visa application?
If your application is successful, we will offer you a place at the University. To accept your place, you must sent us a $500 deposit. Once we have received your deposit payment we will send you an I-20 document. You will need to submit this with your visa application.
How long does it take to apply to the University?
Applying through Study Group is much faster than applying directly to the University. If your application is successful, we can issue an offer within 3 to 4 weeks once we have all your relevant documentation.
What is the deadline for applications?
There is no deadline - we offer rolling admissions. However, we do recommend that you apply as early as possible for the Transition Program, and at least ten weeks before it starts, because the visa application process may cause delays to your admission.
Pre-Arrival
Is there an insurance policy offered to international students?
Yes, comprehensive insurance is included in the fee while you study on the English Transition program and throughout your degree. The insurance has been developed specifically for international students. View more information about StudyCare insurance.
Do I need a visa to study in the US?
Yes, you will most likely need an F-1 student visa. See our visas page for more information. Visas will be issued for the entire duration of your studies at Pacific Lutheran University.
Can I work while I am a student in the US?
You are legally allowed to work in positions on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during University semesters, and up to 40 hours per week during vacation breaks. Further advice can be found on the PLU International Student Services website.
Will I be picked-up at the airport?
Yes – a one-way transfer on arrival at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is included in the price of your Transition Program. This means that a private car service will pick you up on arrival and take you to campus.
When should I arrive at the University?
You should aim to arrive at the University in time for international student orientation. The exact dates for the next intake are given on the key facts page.
What will happen when I arrive in the US?
Specific pre-arrival information will be provided once we receive your flight details and due fees. You will receive expert care and support from Study Group's staff on campus.
Contacting us
How do I find out more about the English Transition course or the University?
If you have a question and cannot find the answer on this website, please contact us. We will be pleased to help you with any questions you have.
How can I contact the International Study Center at Pacific Lutheran University?
You can contact us using the online inquiry form, by telephone, by fax or by post. Details are on the How to Contact us page.
Who will answer my questions?
The English Transition Program is run by Study Group. Our team of expert Student Enrollment Advisers will assist you with any questions you have, and will help and support you through the application process, until you arrive at the University. Our advisers speak 14 languages between them including English, Spanish, Japanese, French and Danish.
What if my English isn't very good?
To make it as easy as possible for you, our Advisers speak a variety of languages and understand several more. Do not worry if your English is not very good - we are experienced in communicating with non-native English speakers, and we will do our best to understand you.
How can I get in contact with other students at PLU?
Join the Class of 2014 Facebook Group to connect with other students joining PLU in Fall 2010.
I am trying to use your inquiry form but it does not work.
Apologies! We try to avoid errors on our enquiry form but sometimes they can occur. You can contact us by email instead on iscusa@studygroup.com.
Can't find an answer?
If your question is not answered in our FAQs, our Student Enrollment Advisors will be happy to help you.
They are experts in US University admission and entry requirements for international students.
Ask your question now