ELSP Language Assessment

ELSP Mission

The mission of the English Language Support Program (ELSP) is to support and enrich the experience of international students who use English as an Additional Language (EAL). In line with Laney Graduate School’s mission to support the success of all students through the fostering of diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim to offer high-quality language instruction that advances the communicative skills of our EAL graduate students. We work with diverse scholars in the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences, helping them succeed in their fields, communicate across disciplines, and connect to their local and global communities. 

ELSP Support Offerings

The ELSP recognizes that students enter Emory’s Laney Graduate School (LGS) with multifaceted language and cultural backgrounds.

For users of English as an Additional Language (EALs), we provide coursework, workshop series, and individual consultations. Knowing your current functional proficiency can help us find the level of support that is right for you.

For students new to the US culture, regardless of language background, some offerings include workshops “Small Talk in the US Context” and “Serving as Teaching Assistant in the US Context”.

Language Diagnostics of Incoming Students

ELSP language diagnostics are not used in the admissions process; instead, they are used to determine students’ functional proficiencies and current strengths in English and to identify offerings that may help them thrive in graduate school.

ELSP language diagnostics are conducted online unless a student prefers an in-person experience. The assessment consists of a 20-25 minute interview with a trained examiner. The student’s speech sample is scored by two raters who assess patterns of strengths and weaknesses, thereby establishing the student’s level of consistent functional ability. A ranking system of Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, and Superior (with low, mid, and high sub-categories) is used to describe the student's oral proficiency.

ELSP Timeline for new LGS students (Fall 2025)

  • ELSP language diagnostics are conducted online unless a student prefers an in-person experience.
  • Some programs will refer international students who speak English as an Additional Language (EAL) for diagnostic, setting aside particular dates to complete the online diagnostics. The results will be used to recommend coursework or other appropriate support.
  • All other EALs can request an diagnostic and then, if desired, elect to enroll in ELSP coursework to further advance their English communication skills.
  • Students will receive more details, including how to sign up for an ELSP diagnostic in June.
  • The main dates available for language diagnostics:
    • June 9-10
    • June 14-20
    • June 23-27
    • August 7-8
    • August 11-12
  • If you are interested in a diagnostic/English language support but do not receive an email from your program or the ELSP, or if you have questions please contact us (see below).

Current International Students

If you are a current international student seeking English language support, please see the For Graduate Students section of the ELSP website.

Contact

Heather Boldt, ELSP Director, hboldt@emory.edu