Intensive English Institute

Our Mission

To provide students the language support and cultural knowledge needed to be successful in achieving their educational and career goals.

IEI Discovery Scholarship

All international applicants to the Intensive English Institute are considered at the time of application for this international scholarship valued up to US$2,000 per academic year. Students who are conditionally admitted to UMaine are also eligible for this scholarship. Apply for the Discovery Scholarship now!

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Academic Programs

Core Intensive English Program

This program offers 18-20 hours of English instruction a week paired with social and cultural activities. Each IEI session is 8 weeks which provides you, the learner with up to 160 hours to improve your English language skills. To maximize learning, we recommend that students apply for two IEI sessions which is one full university semester. 

Maine Bridge Program

The Maine Bridge program is for students who have received conditional admission to the University of Maine. It is available for both undergraduate and graduate students. Students who have achieved 71 TOEFL (IBT) or 5.5 IELTS can enroll in UMaine academic classes and continue taking IEI classes part-time.

Learn more about the IEI Bridge Scholarship

Hybrid Course Delivery

All of our courses are offered with hybrid instruction to integrate learners who are attending IEI from somewhere else in Maine, another U.S. state, or from another country.  Students who have enrolled as an F-1 visa holder are required to attend all of their IEI classes in person. 

Custom Short-term Programs

We offer custom short-term program to suit the needs and budget of your school, business or organization featuring custom curriculum, flexible schedule, customizable cultural activities, and partnerships with other departments at the University of Maine.

Campus Life

The University of Maine campus offers comfortable  housing and healthy meals. Students can apply for housing and a dining plan once admitted. Students exercise in the New Balance Recreation Center and participate in many campus activities.

Cultural trips

At IEI, we want students to integrate their knowledge of the English language into more than just an academic setting.

To achieve this goal, we offer students trips around Maine to learn about the history and culture of the State. Students will have the opportunity to apply their communication skills in real time while creating lasting memories and friendships with their classmates.