Welcome to UW-Madison’s English as a Second Language Program. Our mission is to support the University’s international students. We provide a wide range of ESL courses for undergraduate and graduate students. We train international teaching assistants to become more effective teachers and prospective ESL teachers who desire TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification. Our program supports the University’s community and international outreach goals. We look forward to meeting you and answering any questions you may have.
Welcome from the Director
Hello, and welcome to the UW-Madison Program in English as a Second Language (ESL). We have a wide range of courses to suit your needs. Our highly talented and dedicated instructors have many years of teaching experience here and abroad.
Degree Students
Any non-native English speaker admitted to the university may take ESL courses.
TESOL Certificate
A Certificate in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is offered as a Graduate version and Undergraduate version (including Special students who have completed an undergraduate degree) to those who wish to teach English as a foreign or second language, normally in positions abroad.
International TA Training
The ITA training course helps non-native English speaking TAs to improve their classroom teaching skills and oral communication.
The MSN-ESLAT (Madison English as a Second Language Assessment Test)
The University of Wisconsin-Madison ESL assessment test (MSN-ESLAT) test is conducted online through Canvas, the University’s online learning platform. Please note that the exam given through Canvas includes only Reading & Writing, not Listening.
