For international students whose English is not yet strong enough for a full college-preparatory course load, a comprehensive English Immersion with Support (EIS) Program is available. Depending on their previous coursework and English proficiency, students enter the program at either 9th or 10th grade and are immersed in mainstream classes and support classes for English language and content-specific instruction. There are limited options available for entering 11th graders as English language learners.
Prior to admission, international students are evaluated using an English proficiency test such as the TOEFL iBT or Duolingo and their academic history to determine their proficiency level in English. In order to meet individual needs and promote successful outcomes, student progress is carefully monitored by the EIS Program Coordinator. Students are evaluated continuously to ensure progress and may be "exited" from the EIS Program when they meet a variety of criteria* to determine their English proficiency. With a long history of educating international students, Villanova makes English language learning a top priority. Additional support is in place for EIS students, including a Resident Life Academic Support Coordinator, English Immersion with Support Coordinator, four full-time resident staff, and teacher-led study halls with additional tutors available.
*The criteria for exiting the EIS Program are: A score of 550 or higher on the Villanova institutional TOEFL, a score of 5 on the Villanova-administered TWE, above-average grades in all academic subjects, evidence of effective use of spoken English, and approval of the ESL Coordinator and the Assistant Headmaster for Academics.