Intensive English Language Institute (IELI)

International students who do not meet the required English language requirement can be admitted to the Buffalo State's Intensive English Language Institute (IELI) - subject to availability.

1. Complete and return the Application Form.

2. Complete the required International Student Supplemental form FSA-4 (Student Financial Statement).

3. A separate bank statement on bank letterhead should be submitted along with the FSA-4 form showing funds of at least $35,000 USD available for the student. This number is based on the cost of one year's tuition, fees and housing since we issue your I-20 for a whole academic year. 

4. Submit a copy of your passport biographical page or green card.

5. Submit the non-refundable application fee of $50. Upon receiving your complete application, details on how to pay this fee will be provided.

**Please make sure to include all items in your application packet; an incomplete application will not be considered for admission. A $50 application processing fee applies to all incoming applications.

**A student must prove they have access to a year’s worth of funds before an I-20 can be issued. Your bank statement must show access to $35,000 USD  (include conversion if not in USD). Contact our office before filling out the FSA-4 if you have a sponsor in the US that will provide housing and meals for you while studying. 

Admissions are accepted throughout the year, but to ensure you have the most time to acquire a student Visa, please submit your completed application no later than July 1 for fall admission or December 1 for spring admission. 

* If you are already in the U.S. on an F2 visa or plan to transfer your F1 visa you can be accepted a week prior to classes beginning based on space in the class.

To apply via email: Complete each item on the checklist above and attach all required documents to an email and send to ieli@buffalostate.edu with the subject line “ESL Application”.

To Apply via mail or courier: Complete each item on the checklist above and mail a complete packet to the following address:

SUNY Buffalo State

Intensive English Language Institute

1300 Elmwood Ave

South Wing 410

Buffalo, NY 14222

If you have questions about Buffalo State or are interested in learning more about admission to the Intensive English Language Institute, please e-mail the IELI, or call +1 (716) 878-5331.

The International Student and Scholar Services Office helps students make a successful transition to Buffalo State and the United States. To learn more about services for our international students, visit their web site.

Classes in the IELI program are held four times a week (20 hours total) for fifteen weeks every fall and spring semester during the regular academic year.

Admission into an academic program is based on the ability to meet multiple criteria, including your english proficiency score. Please consult the International Admissions websites below for the most up-to-date information.

Undergrad: TOEFL score of 480 or above (paper-based)

Graduate: TOEFL score of 550 or above (paper-based)

A student may study in the Intensive English Language Insitute at Buffalo State up to two semesters (1 academic year). After which, they may apply for an academic program if they meet the english language proficiency requirements. 

Currently, the IELI is only holding ESL classes during the spring and fall semesters.

If you are interested in bringing a group for private ESL instruction over the summer, please contact our office to discuss your options.  

The IELI staff will register students for all ESL courses. Please ensure you have no holds on your account that may prevent registering. Common holds are immunization record missing and meningitis waiver or vaccine needed.