Frequently Asked Questions

  

How much does ELI cost?

	Fall/Spring	Summer
Tuition	$3675	$2650
Student Fees1	$800	$600
Textbook/Supplies1	$150 - 200	$150 - 200
Health Insurance1, 2	$852	N/A
Residence Halls3	$1275-1875	$17.00/day
Meal Plans4	$1335-1600	None Available

Important Information:

1. These costs are approximate and vary from semester to semester.
2. All students MUST have their own insurance or buy student health insurance when they come to the English Language Institute (ELI).
3. Costs vary according to the type of room you request.
4. Costs vary according to the meal plan you choose. Students MUST have a meal plan if they live in the residence halls.

When do classes begin and end?

ELI classes meet for 20 hours per week. Classes are usually scheduled between 9:10 in the morning and 5:00 in the afternoon, Monday through Friday. This schedule is subject to change. 

• Fall Semester: late August to mid December (16-week semester)
• Spring Semester: mid January to early May (16-week semester)
• Summer Semester: late May to late July (10-week semester)

How many students are in ELI classes?

Classes at the ELI are usually between 5 and 15 students.

How can I apply to The University of Montana?

Students who are academically qualified can be Conditionally Admitted to The University of Montana (UM) even if they do not meet the English Language Proficiency requirement (i.e.: TOEFL score). The Priority Processing Deadline for Conditional Admission is two months before the start of the semester. For example, if the semester begins August 21, the Priority Processing Deadline would be June 21. Students who apply after the Priority Processing Deadline may be accepted on a space available basis. Otherwise, they may be accepted for a future semester.

All students admitted conditionally will be required to attend the ELI until they achieve one of the following:

• A TOEFL score (500 Paper-based TOEFL /173 Computer-based TOEFL/61 Internet-based TOEFL)
• An ELI Recommendation based on academic readiness.

If you are interested in Conditional Admission Status, please follow the instructions on UM's Admissions Page.

When can I get my I-20 and student visa?

The ELI will issue your form I-20 (which you will use to get your visa) as soon as we have received ALL of your forms and fees. These forms include:

1. Signed and completed ELI Application
2. Original financial statement with a specific dollar amount of at least $18,000
3. $100 Application Fee
4. Copy of Passport

Once you receive your I-20 form, you will need to pay the SEVIS fee online. You will receive instructions on how to do this. Then you need to contact the Consulate Office near you and make an appointment for a student visa interview. They will inform you what you will need to bring with you to the interview.

Where can I live on campus?

Through the Residence Life Office, UM offers rooms in student dormitories (dorms) or apartments. The price varies depending on the size and layout of the room. Go to the Residence Life Page to learn more about campus living.

To apply for the dormitories, please complete the Residence Halls Application and return this to the Residence Life Office with the $225 application fee. You need to complete the application and pay the fee as soon as possible. Space is limited and the rooms fill up quickly. Students are not guaranteed housing if they have not completed the application and paid the fee.

For housing questions please contact the Residence Life Office at rtucker@mso.umt.edu.