About Us

The Institute for English Language (IEL) Programs can help you gain the English skills to succeed in a variety of careers and courses of study. Courses are available at five levels of proficiency.

Student-centered approach to learning

Instructors guide, monitor, and provide feedback on your use of the language as you lead discussions, make oral presentations, critique fellow classmates, and write and revise papers.

A common theme

Every course uses a common reading that establishes the theme for the term. Novels and other texts read for class build on the theme. You examine educational, political, and environmental issues. This in-depth study offers numerous opportunities to use English in an intellectually challenging and culturally enlightening environment.

Learn from fellow students

IEL students come from several cultures and backgrounds. You discuss and write about multicultural and global issues in English. You and your classmates are encouraged to consider various perspectives, develop an appreciation for each other’s differences, and arrive at measured conclusions.

Enjoy campus resources

As an IEL student, you have access to several campus computer facilities and the Grossman Library.

At the lower levels of proficiency, conversational practice is offered with members of the Harvard Institute for Learning in Retirement (HILR).

Each term, IEL students compete for scholarships and book prizes awarded by the Emanuel and Lilly Shinagel Essay Prize Fund, and they also nominate instructors for awards in excellence in teaching and the promotion of IEL’s mission.