ESL

Virginia Christian University (VACU) offers a structured English as a Second Language (ESL) program designed to develop students’ proficiency across six core levels.

1. Program Completion Timeline

Students typically complete the program over two years, engaging in three consecutive 10-week quarters of study per year, followed by a one-quarter break. Continuous enrollment without breaks allows for completion in approximately 1.5 years (six quarters).
Completion duration may vary based on individual progress:

• Slower Progress: Students needing additional time to meet skill requirements may repeat courses, extending their program duration.
• Accelerated Progress: Students with advanced English skills may begin at higher levels, potentially completing the program in about one year.

Elective Courses for Advanced Proficiency
After completing Level 6, students can enhance their English skills through specialized elective courses:

• EAP/ESP 070 Proficiency: Focuses on career-related language proficiency, cross-cultural communication, and workplace technology, building confidence in business situations, including presentations.
• EAP/ESP 080 Fluency: Allows students to master the language of international affairs, engaging in debates on politics, economics, law, and other issues.
• TFL TOEFL Preparation: Prepares students for the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), training them in test-taking strategies across reading, listening, speaking, and writing.

2. Method of Learning

The program employs a comprehensive approach, integrating speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Instruction includes grammar exercises, vocabulary building, listening and speaking activities, reading comprehension, writing workshops, and discussions on cultural differences. Assessments consist of quizzes, homework, mid-term and final exams, and class participation.

5. International Students

•Full Course Load: F-1 visa holders must enroll in a minimum of 225 hours per quarter.
•Reduced Course Load: Requires prior approval from the Academic Dean and Registrar. Without approval, students dropping below a full course load will be deemed “out of status.”
•Petition for Reduced Course Load: Must be filed for exceptions.

6. Grading Scale (ESL Program)

•Graded on a Pass/Fail basis.
•Minimum passing score: 70% (C).
•Advancement to higher levels occurs only upon passing the course.

Grade Appeal

• Process:
  1. Submit a written appeal to the instructor.
  2. If unresolved, escalate to the Chief Academic Officer in writing.
  3. Only faculty members may change grades unless they are unavailable (e.g., due to resignation or incapacity).
• Final Decision: Determined by the Chief Academic Officer under exceptional circumstances.

Repeat Courses

• Reasons for repeating include meeting graduation requirements, improving grades, or gaining better subject understanding.
• Tuition: Charged for each repeat.
• Academic Impact: Multiple failures may result in warnings, probation, or dismissal.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

• Purpose: Ensure timely academic progression.
• Evaluation: Conducted at the end of every quarter.
• Maximum Timeframe: Completion allowed within 1.5 times the program length.

ESL Certificate Program Requirements:

Quarter	Minimum Clock Hours Completed (%)	Minimum CGPA
1	60%	N/A
2	70%	N/A
3+	80%	N/A

7. SAP Warning, Probation, and Appeals

•Warning: Issued for failure to meet SAP standards.
•Probation: Imposed if SAP is not regained after the warning.
•Appeals: Must include:
1.Explanation of failure to meet SAP.
2.Description of changes enabling compliance.
3.Supporting documents (if applicable).
•Final Decision: Determined by the Academic Dean within 24 hours.

8. ESL Level Change Policy

New Students: Level changes allowed during the first three days of the quarter with written recommendations from the teacher and program director.

Attendance Policy

• Requirement: Minimum of 80% attendance (180 clock hours) per quarter.
• International Students: Non-compliance may result in status termination.
• Absences: Excused only with official documentation (e.g., medical or legal).

Leave of Absence Policy

• International Students:
  • Eligibility: Requires one academic year of attendance and compliance with government/college regulations.
  • Maximum Period: 150 days, including the summer quarter.
• Exceeding Leave Period: Results in automatic program withdrawal. Reapplication is required for re-enrollment.

9. I-20 Program Extension Policy

To qualify for an I-20 program extension, students must demonstrate they have consistently maintained their status and that the extension is required due to compelling academic or medical reasons, supported by documentation. Delays caused by academic probation or suspension are not valid reasons for an extension.

Eligibility Criteria for Extension

You may be eligible for an I-20 extension if:

• The delay in completing your program is due to documented academic or medical circumstances.
• You can provide evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover your studies and living expenses.
• The extension request is submitted before the current I-20 expiration date, allowing sufficient time for processing.

10. Important Note for International Students

• If your I-20 end date (Section #5) has already expired or you do not meet eligibility criteria for an extension, you must file for reinstatement to F-1 status with USCIS. This process involves substantial fees.
• Failure to apply for an extension in a timely manner violates F-1 regulations, which can result in severe penalties.

Required Documentation for I-20 Program Extension

The following forms and documents must be completed and submitted during an appointment with the Academic Dean:

Steps to Request an Extension

1. Complete the Program Extension Request Form: Meet with the Academic Dean to obtain a recommendation.
2. Prepare and Submit Required Documents:
   • Gather all necessary extension request materials.
   • Submit the documents in person to an international student advisor.
   • An appointment is required for submission.
3. Submit Early: It is strongly recommended to submit your extension request 1–2 months prior to your current I-20 expiration date to allow sufficient processing time.

Important Considerations

• Retain All I-20 Forms: Keep the new I-20 form, along with all previously issued forms, for future use.
• Immigration Requirements: These forms may be required by immigration officers during international travel or for future petitions.