Welcome to the ELS Chicago Campus!
Here you’ll find all of the resources you may need to enjoy an amazing English learning experience at ELS Chicago!
Bookmark this page so that you can easily find it any time.
Use the Language button to translate to your preferred language.
ELS Chicago Campus Tour
Set up your digital account and your personal ILSC Education email account. This will give you access to Microsoft 365 and your myELS application.
Visit the Digital Setup Guide for step-by-step instructions.
Six weeks before your Start Date, you will receive an invitation to complete the ELS Academic English Placement Test. This online test will assess your English reading, writing, vocabulary, listening, grammar and speaking skills and will take about 60-75 minutes to complete. We use these test results so we can make sure to place you in a class that is appropriate for your level.
If you are coming from an international or a domestic flight, you will be arriving at one of two Chicago airports, although O’Hare is the larger of the two.
Here are some transport options from the airport.
If you have requested Airport Pickup (APU), a private transport company staff member will meet you at the airport and take you to your accommodation. For international flights, your driver will be in the International Lobby. For domestic flights, the driver will be in the Baggage Claim area. Look for your name. Remember to provide your flight details in advance.
On your Start Date (usually a Monday), you are required to attend your school for registration and an Orientation Session. You will be able to meet other new students, the academic team and the campus support. You can ask questions and get all the information you need for a successful study experience. If you have not completed a placement test, you will take it then.
What to Bring on your first day:
- Your Passport.
- A copy of your Form I-20 (if applicable).
- Funds to pay all remaining fees at ELS if they have not already been paid.
- Your completed Important Forms, which will be needed on your first day of class.
- Proof of medical insurance (if not purchased through ELS).
See the Arrival Information Page to download your Important Forms
Have you completed all your pre-arrival tasks? Do you have all your required documents? Are you ready to start studying? Check the list for your campus so that you can start as soon as you arrive.
Reception and Facilities
ELS Chicago is found at Dominican University, 7900 West Division St, Lewis Hall, River Forest, IL 60305
All ELS students can use all on-campus libraries and sports facilities as well as the student union and dining facilities. Students can also use the health center if they are in need of medical attention or routine medical assistance.
First Day of Class
On the Tuesday morning of your first week, find your classroom and teacher’s name in your timetable in the myELS app. Join your class on campus and meet your new classmates. Remember to bring your school supplies and your lunch.
Check out the Activities Calendar to join in, have fun and meet new people, all while practising your English.
What to Bring
Bring any school supplies you need, such as pens, notebook, phone/tablet/laptop. Bring your lunch or dinner, snacks, and water bottle, especially in summer. There are restaurants and convenience stores very close to the campus too.