English Language Academy
Welcome to the English Language Academy (ELA) at the Continuing Education Institute (CEI). At ELA, we believe that mastering the English language opens doors to countless opportunities, academically, professionally and personally. Our dedicated team of native English-speaking international instructors is committed to providing you with first class language education that will empower you to achieve your goals.
Explore Our Programs
Quality Educational Programs
Leading institute for English-language
As a critical part of AUIB, the English Language Academy (ELA) aims to be the leading institute for English-language education in Baghdad and is staffed by a team of qualified, dedicated and experienced native speaking teachers from all around the world, including United States, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and other countries where English is the primary tongue.
Our communicative approach not only encourages students to speak English but also to develop reading and writing skills in the language, so they are prepared to enter into the academic world at the university level, or improve their chances for a promotion within international companies. The ELA overlooks the AUIB campus’s largest lake and hosts state-of-the-art classrooms. As a vital part of the American University of Iraq-Baghdad, students will have access to all university facilities and be given support and guidance from our friendly faculty and staff.
At the ELA, we take pride in delivering quality educational programs, using a dynamic approach that responds to students’ interests. In all of our program offerings, we encourage students to be active participants in their educational experience. We teach fundamental skills in a way that engages students encouraging them to learn and that inspires the kind of creativity and confidence students need to succeed at the university and in the workplace.
Skills Students Will Need For Success
Community Education Program
Explore an enriching linguistic journey with the Community Education Program (CEP) at the Continuing Education Institute (CEI) at AUIB. Tailored for professionals, recent graduates, and anyone with an interest in business, CEP ensures a personalized learning experience with meticulous level assessments and placement. Benefit from the expertise of native English-speaking faculty and instructors, aligning your progress with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
The program’s flexibility, spanning 140 hours over 15 weeks, accommodates diverse schedules. The esteemed AUIB campus provides a conducive educational atmosphere. Upon completion, each participant receives a certification, marking their language proficiency achievements.
CEP also provides a course specially adapted for the holy month of Ramadhan, which consists of 90 hours, over nine weeks only, as an intensive course to learn English language basics including the first three levels out of six (Fundamentals, Beginner, and Elementary)
CEP at CEI goes beyond language acquisition. It is a platform where you can refine grammar, expand vocabulary, gain confidence in English communication, and prepare for academic or professional pursuits. Experience language education that prioritizes your individual growth and success. Join CEP to embark on a comprehensive language proficiency journey, enhancing both the personal and professional dimensions of your life.
Apply NowFor those who are already proficient in English and wish to refine their skills further.
Ideal for learners who have a strong grasp of English but want to enhance their fluency.
Perfect for those with a good foundation in English looking to bridge the gap to advanced proficiency.
Designed for learners who are comfortable with basic English and want to become more confident speakers and writers.
Suitable for beginners who are taking their first steps in learning English.
Tailored for false beginners, with a very basic familiarity with the language providing the essential building blocks of the English language.
Designed for absolute beginners, emphasizing basic vocabulary and foundational language structures.
Skills Students Will Need For Success
Academic Success Program
The Academic Success Program (ASP) is designed for students who have been conditionally admitted to AUIB for university studies. It has five levels of study, but students will be given a placement test first to determine the level at which they will begin. Qualifying for study at AUIB may only require one level for an advanced student, whereas a beginner may require all six levels. Students who test at the required level of proficiency can start academic studies at AUIB immediately. The ELA follows the common European framework of reference for languages (CEFR) which is used as a guide toward setting the standards for language proficiency internationally.
In addition to academic English, we offer math instruction, test preparation, study skills, and other skills students will need for success at AUIB or universities abroad. Throughout the program, information technology (IT) skills are integrated into the curriculum to ensure the student is “computer literate” when the academic program begins. Students are strongly recommended to buy a computer laptop to be able to complete their studies successfully at AUIB.
Here is what we offer:
- Small class sizes of 20 students or less
- State of the art classrooms with Smartboards, student laptops and other technology
- Qualified native English speakers with master’s degrees and higher
- An engaging and interesting curriculum
- Safe and comfortable classrooms in a beautiful and highly secure campus setting
- Student activities and clubs for students to join on campus
- Free tutoring for enrolled students
- Access to all on-campus facilities
- High Intermediate
- (Reading/Writing only)
- 3 UG classes
- High Intermediate
- 2 UG classes
- Intermediate
- 1 UG classes
- Low Intermediate
- No UG classes
- Low Intermediate
- No UG classes
- High Elementary
- No UG classes
All ASP courses are 7 weeks of class instruction with 1 additional week for final assessments. Level 3 is taught over 16 weeks, Part A and Part B, which are taught consecutively, with Part B commencing after the completion of Part A.
Students in Level 4, 5 and 6 are allowed to take UG classes while still in ASP. Students should choose subjects that allow ample time to study ASP along with UG classes. Taking UG courses are optional until they successfully pass their ASP courses.
English Fundamentals Program
In 2024, the English Language Academy proudly launched the English Fundamentals Program designed to assist university students who test at the complete and false beginner level in English.
With a combination of bi-lingual and international faculty, students develop their English abilities step-by-step with the assistance of Arabic as needed.
The EFP courses focus on university students entering AUIB. However, EFP courses are open to the public in Fall Semester from 16- 18 years of age who are planning to enter AUIB and would like to get a “jump-start” on their English.
Levels and Duration:
| Beginners 1 | Starter | 4 hours per day |
| Beginners 2 | Beginner | 4 hours per day |
To complete both parts of the EFP beginner courses, it will take 16 weeks. Each part is 7 weeks of class instruction and 1 week of final exams.
IELTS Preparation Course
In addition to our existing programs, ELA is thrilled to introduce the IELTS Preparation Course. This specialized course is designed to help you prepare for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination, a globally recognized certification of English language proficiency.
Whether you’re planning to study abroad, immigrate, or pursue an international career, achieving a high score on the IELTS exam is crucial. Our IELTS Preparation Course will equip you with the skills and strategies needed to improve your chances of excelling in this exam, ensuring that you can confidently take the next step in your international journey.
English for Specific Purposes Workshops
At the Continuing Education Institute, we understand that English proficiency is essential for success in various professional areas. That’s why we offer specialized English for Specific Purposes (ESP) workshops tailored to meet the unique communication needs of different industries and sectors. Whether you’re looking to enhance your business communication skills or develop proficiency in technical or academic English, our ESP workshops cater to diverse interests and career objectives. From the Business Communication Workshop and Business Skills Workshop under our Business English Program to industry-specific courses in healthcare, engineering, and hospitality, our ESP workshops are designed to equip learners with the language skills and confidence needed to excel in their respective fields. Led by experienced instructors and incorporating practical, real-world scenarios, these workshops provide a dynamic learning environment where participants can hone their English language abilities while gaining insights relevant to their professional aspirations.
Skills Students Will Need For Success
Corporate Training Program
In the dynamic landscape of today’s globalized environment, proficient communication stands as a cornerstone for businesses and institutions and other bodies. CEI’s Corporate Training Program (CTP) takes the lead in providing meticulously tailored language solutions crafted for corporations and other organizations who operate globally. Our specialized courses are designed to elevate the language proficiency of employees, fostering a culture of effective international collaboration and contributing to the overall success of businesses. At CEI, we understand the nuanced language needs of each organizations and offer a comprehensive program that aligns language education with the strategic goals and global communication requirements of the corporate world.
In addition to academic English, we offer math instruction, test preparation, study skills, and other skills students will need for success at AUIB or universities abroad. Throughout the program, information technology (IT) skills are integrated into the curriculum to ensure the student is “computer literate” when the academic program begins. Students are strongly recommended to buy a computer laptop to be able to complete their studies successfully at AUIB
Apply NowTailor your language training to meet the specific needs of your business with CEI’s Corporate Training Program (CTP). Choose between our General English courses for a broad language skill enhancement or opt for Business English courses designed to refine communication within the corporate context. Whichever path you select, CTP ensures that your employees develop language proficiency that aligns seamlessly with your organizational objectives.
CTP stands at the forefront of providing essential language solutions for corporations. Our key offerings encompass a range of courses designed to enhance language skills across various business areas. From general language improvement to specialized business communication, our programs are crafted to empower your workforce with the linguistic tools necessary for effective collaboration, international engagement, and professional success.
CTP’s streamlined approach ensures a seamless integration of language training into your corporate environment. Upon consultation, we assess the language needs of your organization, customize a tailored curriculum, and deliver training through flexible schedules that suit your business operations. Whether on-site or online, our experienced instructors guide your employees through a structured program, fostering language proficiency in a manner that aligns with your corporate objectives.
CTP caters to employees at various proficiency levels, from beginners to advanced speakers. Our courses are designed to accommodate diverse language backgrounds and experiences. Additionally, we offer proficiency (Accuplacer) tests to assess the language skills of your workforce accurately. These tests help identify strengths and areas for improvement and guide the customization of training programs to ensure targeted language development.
Recognizing the unique language requirements across industries, CTP offers specialized training modules. These programs focus on industry-specific terminology, communication norms, and language nuances essential for success in various business sectors. Elevate your workforce’s language skills with specialized training that directly addresses the linguistic demands of your industry.