Intensive English Program
From English Learning to University Success
The Intensive English Program (IEP) at UMKC helps you improve your English while preparing for real university classes. Start at your level and prepare for a UMKC degree program with confidence.
- Designed for A1-A2 CEFR level (beginning to intermediate) students
- 18 hours of instruction per week
- Build real academic and communication skills in English
- Learn with AI tools and expert instructors
Start Your Journey with the ALI
Our program is designed for students who want more than general English. You will build the skills needed to reach your goal of academic study at a U.S. university.
Your Roadmap to Academic Study
A student's movement through the IEP is determined by their performance/grade in their courses. It typically takes students one semester to complete each level. Learn more about our IEP courses.
A1 Level - build a foundation in English
- Learn to use essential digital tools like Canvas, webmail, and AI-powered language tools
- Master core communication skills in reading, writing, and speaking
- Receive personalized support in labs and workshops to reinforce classroom content
A2 Level - advance your skills
- Enhance your skills through structured paragraphs, inference techniques, and expanded terminology
- Improve pronunciation and oral communication while practicing with diverse speakers and tones
- Utilize personalized instruction in labs and workshops designed to solidify classroom content
Paseo Program - combine English study with undergraduate coursework in the Paseo Program.
Graduate Study - an Individualized Pathway
The ALI works with individual graduate programs at UMKC to help English language learners meet the English requirements needed for graduate study. Students interested in graduate study after English should identify themselves early in the application process so the ALI can begin to build their personalized learning path.
Application Deadlines and Start Dates
The IEP has three start dates each semester: one regular and two late start dates. Only new students are allowed to use the late start dates. Students who come late join the classes that started at the beginning of the semester.
Application deadlines for F-1 visa holders are set six weeks before the start of classes. If you need more time to get your visa, please submit your application before the deadline.
Fall Semester 2026
First application deadline and start date:
- Jul. 10, 2026 (deadline)
- Aug. 24, 2026 (start)
Second application deadline and start date:
- Aug. 7, 2026 (deadline)
- Sep. 14, 2026 (start)
Third application deadline and start date:
- Aug. 28, 2026 (deadline)
- Oct. 5, 2026 (start)
Program Costs
The majority of the ALI's IEP students are F-1 visa holders. These students receive an I-20 document from UMKC to apply for their F-1 student visa. F-1 visa holders are charged the following items.
- Base tuition
- Undergraduate non-resident tuition
- Student Life Fee
- ISAO Fee
- International Student Health Insurance (required)
- Orientation Fee (new students only)
All F-1 visa holders at the ALI receive a partial scholarship. The AY 25/26 scholarship rate is $661.50 per credit hour.
The after-scholarship costs for Spring 2026 are
- Jan. 20-May 8 = $7,478.10
- Feb. 16-May 8 = $6,235.50
- Mar. 9-May 8 = $4,605.00
Community Members and Other Students
Non-F-1 (and J-1) visa holders can also study in the Intensive English Program. These students can study full- or part-time. Their costs and deadlines are different than F-1 costs and deadlines.