English as a Second Language

COVID-19 Update
11/16/2020

Our operational status

Classes for Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 are a mix of in-person, online, and hybrid modalities. We recommend email and/or Canvas as the best way to reach faculty and instructors. Academic departments are minimally staffed.

For more information: UWL's COVID-19 info hub

In case of emergency

UWL's ESL Institute is accepting applications Fall 2021. 

We welcome individuals who want to improve their English proficiency for further education, professional development, or personal enrichment. Our focus is on learning academic English through classroom instruction and interactive activities.

ESL Program

  • 3 levels of instruction from beginning to advanced
  • Classes in speaking, listening, reading, writing
  • Classes are content-based, so you learn English while studying a topic
  • English proficiency test to determine your level of ESL study
  • Classroom activities with American students
  • Bridge program to enroll in one regular university class in addition to ESL classes in your final semester
  • Opportunity to earn General Education credit toward a degree program in some Level 3 classes

La Crosse Community

  • La Crosse, Wisconsin is a mid-sized city (52,000 residents) located in western Wisconsin next to the Mississippi River
  • Unique scenic beauty including Granddad Bluff, nature trails, and parks
  • Wide variety of seasonal recreational activities such as biking, kayaking, hiking, skiing, sledding, and ice skating
  • Regional center for shopping, dining, entertainment, health care, and education
  • La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE) offers daily flights to and from Minneapolis/St. Pau International Airport (MSP), Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), and Detroit Wayne County Airport (DTW).

Support for Students

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Students from the University of Teacher Education Fukuoka meet with Chancellor Joe Gow and Provost Betsy Morgan