CELCIS

3 students sitting at an outdoor table in downtown Kalamazoo — CELCIS

The Center for English Language and Culture for International Students (CELCIS) offers intensive English language courses in-person at Western Michigan University.

Apply Now Study in a Pathway Program (Dual Enrollment)

The mission of the Center for English Language and Culture for International Students at Western Michigan University, established in 1975, is to provide instruction in English as a second language for non-native speakers who will use English to study at an American college or university or in their workplaces.

CELCIS at WMU

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About CELCIS

CELCIS provides comprehensive language instruction and cultural orientation through a year-round, intensive English language program. English as a Second Language support courses for WMU students and specialized training and consultation for international teaching assistants. Through these offerings, CELCIS supports three key areas of service: international students, Western Michigan University and the broader southwestern Michigan community, helping learners build the language skills and cultural understanding needed for academic, professional and personal success.

CELCIS Program Options

Study English as a Second Language

CELCIS offers an intensive English language program for non-native speakers who will use English to study at a college or university or in their workplaces.

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Study in a Pathway Program (Dual Enrollment)

The Pathway Program (Dual Enrollment) enables international students to take English as a second language courses while also taking academic courses that count toward an academic degree program.

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Short ESL Programs (American University Experience)

Explore the exciting short-term study opportunities available at WMU. Our non-degree programs offer international students the chance to experience American culture, improve their English skills and engage in academic pursuits.

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Why study at CELCIS?

Benefits of Studying English at CELCIS

CELCIS is an established program – helping students succeed for over 40 years!
CELCIS was accredited by the Commission on English Language Programs (CEA) in 2000, 2005, and 2015, and is accredited through 2025 (one of the few programs in the world to receive CEA accreditation three times!).
Completing the CELCIS Advanced level satisfies WMU’s language requirements for admission; CELCIS graduates do not need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores for admission to most programs.
The CELCIS Curriculum teaches you valuable skills (presentation, research, etc.) to help you succeed in the university.
All full-time CELCIS faculty have master’s degrees in TESL or related fields and have many years of teaching experience. Most faculty have lived and taught overseas.
CELCIS can accommodate students with varying levels of language ability, including those at the beginner level, as well as students with disabilities.
CELCIS offers a direct route to admission to Western Michigan University, with no additional English language proficiency exams required.
Route Option 1: completion of a Pathway Program II (effective Summer 2021 students are eligible to enter the Pathway Program after completing the CELCIS Intermediate Level).
Route Option 2: completion of the CELCIS Advanced level.

Benefits of Participating in Activities at CELCIS

Help the local community by volunteering at a retirement home, serving meals at a soup kitchen, or assisting at an animal shelter.
Participate in recreational and cultural activities such as visits to Lake Michigan, music festivals, sporting events, museums, and sledding.
Join a student organization—over 350 to choose from!
Have fun while practicing your conversation skills by participating in the Conversation Circles program.

Benefits of Studying in Kalamazoo

Live in Kalamazoo — a vibrant, friendly, and safe community with a population of 75,000.
Kalamazoo is the best of both worlds – many of the dining and cultural events of a large city, with the safety, beauty, and affordability of a small town.
Enjoy the benefits of living in a state with four very distinct seasons. Winters are snowy and summers are sunny!
Visit big cities such as Chicago or Detroit – only 2 hours away. Train transportation is available, with an AMTRAK train station downtown.
Visit beautiful Lake Michigan --- enjoy the beaches and the scenery!
Multiple housing options are available: on-campus residence halls, on-campus apartments, off-campus housing, and homestay.
Students can receive free airport pick-up upon arrival to the Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport.
There is free bus transportation on campus and in Kalamazoo for WMU students.

CELCIS Academics and Policies

Academic Curriculum, Schedule and Resources

CELCIS classes emphasize a holistic approach to language learning. Students participate in activities that simulate those that they will experience in their future academic or professional environments.

Policies

To be successful in the Western Michigan University CELCIS program, it is important that students understand the policies and expectations of the program. CELCIS policies are outlined here and in the CELCIS student handbook.

About the Haenicke Institute for Global Education

Your journey at Western Michigan University is a global one. Through transformative events, immersive classes and Experience-Driven Learning, the Haenicke Institute for Global Education connects Kalamazoo to the world—and the world to Kalamazoo. We assist more than 2,000 international students and alumni at home and abroad with admissions, immigration support, student success and post-graduation job training. We host 80+ study abroad programs and bring students, faculty and staff to 30 countries, on average, each year. From fostering academic opportunities to showcasing cultural events and providing K-12 outreach, the Haenicke Institute promotes learning that transcends borders and takes you wherever you want to go.

International Student and Scholar Services

International Student and Scholar Services is responsible for international student recruitment, admissions and immigration support.

A student holding a WMU flag at a foreign location.

Study Abroad

WMU Study Abroad supports more than 80 programs around the world, sending students, faculty and staff to 30 countries, on average, each year.

Global Engagement Program

The Global Engagement Program provides opportunities for all students at Western Michigan University to become globally engaged.

English Language Learning

The Center for English Language and Culture for International Students offers short- and long-term intensive English language study.

WMU staff helping young children learn about Asia.

Asian Initiatives

WMU Asian Initiatives enhances scholarship and knowledge of East Asia on campus and throughout southwest Michigan.

A student and teacher in a WMU classroom.

Faculty Enrichment

The Haenicke Institute supports partnerships with more than 100 international institutions, offering options to faculty who are interested in collaboration and exchange.

More about Global Education at WMU