DigiPen’s Intensive English Preparation (IEP) courses are designed for international students who wish to attend DigiPen but whose language skills are insufficient to pass a standardized proof of English language test at the time of application. IEP courses help students improve their English language proficiency so they can be successful in their chosen degree program at DigiPen.

When you enroll in IEP courses, you will learn and practice a broad range of skills, including oral communication, industry-specific vocabulary, and advanced reading and writing. These courses will equip you to communicate effectively in complex work and social situations. IEP courses will also help you adjust to DigiPen’s culture and our rigorous academic programs. You will interact with faculty, staff, and other students as you become familiar with this unique learning environment.

By taking IEP courses, you will also gain knowledge of American cultural practices through immersion in both the DigiPen community and the local area. You can improve your English language skills by engaging in conversations with people from many different cultures. You may also participate in the full range of clubs and activities at DigiPen, such as playtesting groups, esports, study clubs, and more.

Credits earned from IEP courses do not count toward any DigiPen degree programs.

IEP Enrollment

Applicants who meet all of the admission requirements for their chosen degree program but lack English proficiency will automatically be considered for IEP courses and may be asked to provide the score sheet from their standardized English test. To qualify for IEP courses, you must have achieved one of the following minimum test scores but not met the score requirement to prove proficiency in the English language:

  • TOEFL (paper exam): 450
  • TOEFL (computer exam): 133
  • TOEFL (internet-based test): 45
  • IELTS (paper exam): 4.0
  • Cambridge English (paper exam): PET (level B1)

We will notify you if you qualify to participate in IEP courses and you will receive a conditional acceptance to your degree program. After completing the IEP courses, you will still be required to submit a passing proof of English test score before you can matriculate into your degree program.

IEP Course Requirements

At the start of IEP courses, you will be placed at a specific level based on the outcome of a placement test. Each level of IEP coursework takes one semester (15 weeks) to complete. To complete the level, you must earn the indicated number of credits for that level by completing the required courses.

  • IEP Placement Level I requires completion of at least 14 credits.
  • IEP Placement Level II requires completion of at least 14 credits.
  • IEP Placement Level III requires completion of at least 14 credits.
  • IEP Placement Level IV requires completion of at least 16 credits.

You must remain enrolled with a course load of at least 12 credits to maintain full-time status.

IEP Course Sequence

Level 1 (Semester 1)

Level 2 (Semester 2)

Level 3 (Semester 3)

Level 4 (Semester 4/College Bridge)

Electives

Completion of IEP Levels

Upon completion of each level of IEP courses, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion in Intensive English Preparation specifying the level completed.

Exam Requirement

After completing the required IEP coursework, you must fulfill your admission condition by taking one of the following tests and earning the minimum passing score or greater:

  • TOEFL (paper exam): 550 minimum passing score
  • TOEFL (computer exam): 233 minimum passing score
  • TOEFL (Internet-Based Test): 80 minimum passing score
  • IELTS (paper exam): 6.5 minimum passing score