Who We Are
The English Language Support Program (ELSP) is an innovative, research-based program that serves as Duke’s primary resource for the teaching and learning of English as an additional language. Previously called English for International Students, the program adopted the new ELSP name in 2025.
What We Do
ELSP serves Duke’s educational mission by supporting multilingual graduate and professional students in becoming confident, independent users of academic and professional English. The program provides effective, individualized English-language instruction, advising, and assessment centered on students’ dynamic, field-specific communication needs.
Note: ELSP plays no role in the admissions process, and we do not administer the TOEFL. Rather, our contact with international graduate and professional students begins once they arrive at Duke. Please see the admissions section of the website for Graduate School application requirements, including those for international students.
The EIS Program is Now ELSP
In October 2025, the EIS Program adopted a new name: the English Language Support Program (ELSP). This new name is more inclusive, recognizing the program’s services beyond international students to anyone who would benefit from English language support. The new name is also more consistent with the names of similar programs at peer institutions.
Contact
Brad L. Teague, Ph.D.
Assistant Dean and Director
English Language Support Program
North Building, Room 406
304 Research Drive (map)
Campus Box 103960
Durham, NC 27708
919-613-8129
brad.teague@duke.edu
English Language Placement Exams
International graduate students whose first language is not English are required to take oral and written English placement exams administered by the ELSP program upon matriculation. See this video for three quick tips, and the exam information page for more details.