Student Life

What is student life like for those enrolled in University of Bridgeport’s English Language Institute? With students from more than 80 countries comprising our student body year-round, the ELI program in Bridgeport, Connecticut offers an everyday, full-immersion, global learning environment that is truly unique in our picturesque New England location. Our international students connect, communicate, and transform through and with each other, in the classroom and out, on a daily basis.

Housing

On-campus housing is available for all and required for students under 21 years of age. Undergraduate housing includes meals during the fall and spring semesters. Graduate housing on campus does not include a meal plan and is available for students over 25 or accepted into a graduate program after ELI.

On-campus housing reservations are made through the ELI office. Many students also live off-campus. You can learn more at:

• Jump Off Campus
• Sara Homestay

Activities

At UB’s ELI, students enjoy a full range of program activities that help orient them to the American culture and enrich their stay in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Participating in these activities teach students about the local region, help them practice their English-speaking skills, and invite social engagement with American and other international students for a memorable, life-affirming experience.

As University of Bridgeport students, ELI students can join in all trips, clubs, and events organized by the UB Student Programming office.

In addition, the following activities are designed specifically for our international students:

• UBuddies is a program that matches native English speaking students with ELI students for conversation and cultural exchange.
• Thursday Conversation Group meets after class to play word games and have relaxed conversation with American students.
• Trips are organized every session to New York City, sports events, New Haven, and interesting cultural destinations.

Getting around

In downtown Bridgeport, UB students can use the UB Shuttle or ride for free on city buses in and around the greater Bridgeport area, and can connect with buses and trains that will whisk them to New York City, New Haven, and Boston. Metro North trains leave every half hour for New York City or New Haven, while Amtrak trains take passengers to near-by Boston or Washington, DC.

Medical care and health insurance

ELI students can visit the UB Health Center at any time during the week for immediate medical attention. Referrals are made to specialists as needed. All international students are automatically enrolled in health insurance that covers routine and emergency medical care at a reasonable cost.