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ELI110: Fundamentals of Academic English

ELI 110 is designed for undergraduate students who need additional English language support alongside their degree coursework. The course strengthens academic reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills for success in U.S. university classrooms.

Format & Schedule

  • Delivery: Online (Zoom + Canvas Catalog)
  • Duration: 12 weeks during fall and spring semesters
  • Summer Option: Accelerated 8-week course
  • Meeting Times: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:00–9:00 AM (synchronous)
  • Additional Work: ~2 hours/week asynchronous study

Placement & Eligibility

Placement into ELI 110 is determined by the ELI placement assessment or an approved English proficiency exam. Students may also be recommended based on writing performance or faculty evaluation.

English Proficiency Scores that Require ELI 110:

TOEFL iBT IELTS Cambridge English Duolingo PTE
Total below 85

Or any subscore below 20

6.5 total with 6 or below writing subscore

Or any subscore below 6

Writing subscore below 169  Total ≤125

Or any subscore ≤110

Total below 63

Or writing subscore below 61

Or any sub score below 50

🔗 View the full English Placement Chart

How ELI 110 Fits in a Student’s Plan

  • ELI 110 is non-credit and complements degree coursework.
  • Students typically take ELI 110 alongside undergraduate courses.
  • Advisors should consider students’ total load and time zone.

Course Benefits

  • ✅ Builds academic English proficiency for university coursework
  • 💬 Improves confidence in discussions and presentations
  • ✍️ Strengthens academic writing and reading comprehension
  • 📚 Provides individualized instructor feedback

Contact Us

For questions about placement or enrollment, contact:

English Language Institute (ELI)

📧 eli@utk.edu