Language Institute

The Language Institute (LI) extends the academic resources of the university through high-quality and affordable language learning programs to advance language proficiency in people of all age groups. Upon completion of the program, participants will have acquired a language level that will enhance their opportunities for advancement. 

Application Process

Step 1. Review program requirements and course deadlines in the webpage or call the office at (956) 665-2133. 

Step 2. Submit the program application electronically via the webpage.

Step 3. Register for the placement test, $50.00 nonrefundable, and take the test.

 *The Conversation Club does not require the placement test.  

Step 4. Process tuition payment.   

Application Requirements

• Participants must be 18 years or older (or 15 years of age or older for the Summer II Intensive Program) and have completed high school or equivalent (except for Basic English for Adults and the Conversation Club). 
• US Citizens or Resident Aliens should bring their birth certificate, resident alien card, or employment authorization letter. 
• International Students must apply for an F-1 visa. 

Procedure after Admission for International Students

An applicant is considered an International Student if the applicant meets the following condition: 
Not a citizen, permanent resident, or have an application on file to become a permanent resident of the United States.

Issuance of I-20 Form 

UTRGV is an approved Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) school to issue I-20 form. 

• Provide a copy of your valid passport.
• Submit a bank statement showing sufficient financial support for the length of study including tuition and living expenses.

To learn more about how to maintain your F-1 student status, please contact the Language Institute at (956)665-2133 or via e-mail at li@utrgv.edu. 

Medical Insurance Requirement for International Students

As required by Regents’ Rule 50402, students holding nonimmigrant visas are required to maintain approved comprehensive health insurance or coverage while enrolled. Medical insurance is required each session of attendance with required coverage by UT System. Students are required to purchase the medical insurance via Academic Health Plan (AHP) and must be maintained throughout their time at our university unless a waiver has been submitted and approved by AHP. For more information regarding waiver of medical insurance deadlines, the student must contact the Language Institute. Mexican nationals are not required to obtain university medical insurance via AHP as long as they study at UTRGV on campus.

Meningitis Vaccine

All new students under the age of 22 must submit evidence of receiving the meningitis vaccine or booster shot (administered within the past five years) or evidence of exemption before they can enroll. Students must provide proof of vaccination 10 days before the first day of the program.

Refund Policy

• If a participant cannot be placed in an existing level or if a course is cancelled due to insufficient enrollment, a full refund will be given.

• Placement Test fees are non-refundable.

• A written request via email to li@utrgv.edu is required at least 3 business days prior to the start date of the course to get the registration fee refunded in full. Partial refunds are not available. It takes 5 to 7 business days to process refunds for credit/debit card payments.

 In order to meet the needs of the Rio Grande Valley, LI has instructional sites in the UTRGV Edinburg Campus and in the UTRGV Brownsville Campus.