The English Language Institute (ELI) at Florida International University (FIU) in Miami, Florida is a fully equipped, state-of-the-art language training center that is part of the University's College of Arts and Sciences. Since 1978, the ELI has taught close to 20,000 international students and professionals from more than 45 countries to master the English language through the use of proven education methods and the most up-to-date learning facilities.

Beginning or advanced, full-time or part-time, academic or vocationally-oriented, students can choose from different ELI programs that cater to their particular demands. In each program, experienced faculty members, many with overseas teaching or business experience, emphasize intensive learning in intimate classroom settings. Lectures, workshops and social events at FIU's lively campuses, and field trips to attractions in cosmopolitan, multi-cultural Miami and its environs augment classroom learning. Along with language training, each student acquires a comprehensive introduction to American life.

Vision
To become one of the leading institutes in the U.S. by setting standards of excellence in innovative curriculum design, teaching, professional development, and cross-cultural understanding.

Mission
To provide quality English language instruction to all individuals who have chosen English as their medium of communication for academic or professional pursuits and to promote international and intercultural understanding.

The ELI incorporates the use of three types of learning laboratories, each located in the Institute's main building, into the ELI curriculum.

AudioVisual Lab: Interactive video facilities that help students achieve English proficiency through the use of multimedia feedback

Language Lab: An interactive audio facility that is used as an integral part of all language classes

Computer Lab: A facility featuring a wide range of up-to-date computer terminals, each equipped with easy-to-use language learning software that enhances English language learning.

Studying at the ELI would not be complete without savoring the excitement of culturally rich Miami. At the southeastern tip of the United States, just north of Latin America and on the threshold of the Caribbean, in recent years Miami has become a global crossroads for business and entertainment from banking and shipping industries to the world of film and fashion. From the city's multi-ethnic population comes a cross-cultural blend of restaurants, festivals, art institutions, and historical sites. The region's subtropical climate and an average temperature of 77 degrees encourage an outdoor lifestyle, including leisure activities and sports.

The ELI schedules regular field trips to area attractions for all its students. Cultural and historical activities include the Florida Philharmonic, the Center for the Fine Arts, the Coconut Grove Playhouse, the Jackie Gleason Center for the Performing Arts, the Miami City Ballet, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Museum of Science, Seaquarium, Metro Zoo, Parrot Jungle, Bayside Market Place, the South Beach Art Deco District, the Miami Book Fair International, the Calle Ocho Festival, the Miami Film Festival, and the Coconut Grove Arts Festival.

Sports and leisure activities include Miami Dolphins (football), Miami Heat (basketball), Miami Marlins (baseball), Miami Panthers (hockey), scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, golf, jai-alai, horse racing, and fabulous beaches.

Nearby attractions: the city of Key West and the Florida Keys; Disney World, Epcot Center and MGM Studios in Orlando; Busch Gardens in Tampa; Lion Country Safari in West Palm Beach; the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral; and Everglades National Park.