Student Experience

The Intensive English Program offers everything you need to prepare for your future. Classes are small, interactive, and have a flexible schedule, so students have plenty of time to enjoy life in Bellingham. You will improve your English while making friends, sharing your culture, and exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

Academic Excellence

The IEP helps students reach the highest levels of academic success. Friendly faculty and staff give students skills and confidence to complete their studies.

  • Learn advanced skills including research analysis, critical writing, and professional presentation techniques.
  • Gain conditional admission to any undergraduate program at WWU. After finishing level 6, students meet the English language requirement. They can apply to degree programs without submitting any English test scores.
  • Earn credits toward an undergraduate degree at Western in levels 5 and 6. This can shorten your degree study time and save you over $10,000 in tuition and fees!
  • Official transcripts available.

Join the WWU Community

Studying English on a university campus gives you many opportunities to meet friends and learn about American culture. In addition to a first-class English education, we offer:

  • On-campus and community housing options to help you engage with U.S. and other international students.
  • Over 200 student-led clubs to join and connect with students who share your interests.
  • Activity coordinators who plan activities in the local community and natural environment.
  • Our conversation partner program matches IEP students with WWU students. This helps you make campus connections and practice English outside the classroom.
  • World-class outdoor activity options led through the on-campus Outdoor Center. 
  • A welcoming and friendly community who are eager to get to know you and share this beautiful place we call home.

Get to Know Bellingham

Bellingham is a safe and welcoming place to learn and study in an area of the United States called the Pacific Northwest. It's a small city with a friendly local community. It's also near bigger cities with tourist attractions (like the very first Starbucks, in Seattle) and large cultural events.