English Language Programs Closure - FAQ
Why is Framingham State University closing its English Language Programs?
Framingham State University has made the difficult decision to discontinue its intensive and community-based English Language Programs (ELP), with the program ending on December 31, 2026.
The decision is the result of declining enrollment. While the ELP programs have served an important role in the community for many years, enrollment has declined to a level that makes continuing the programs no longer sustainable.
When will the English Language Programs end?
The final day of the ELP program will be December 31, 2026.
There will be no new ELP sessions offered after that date.
I am currently enrolled in an ELP class. Can I finish my class?
Yes. All students currently enrolled in an ELP class will be able to complete their current course.
Will there be another ELP session after my current class?
No. There will be no additional ELP sessions after December 31, 2026.
What happens to tuition I have already paid?
Tuition that you have paid will apply to the current course in which you are enrolled, and you will be able to complete that course.
I am studying in the United States on an F-1 visa. What should I do?
We understand that the closure may be particularly concerning for students whose immigration status is connected to their studies.
Framingham State is contacting other institutions to identify transfer options for students who need to continue their English-language studies while maintaining their F-1 visa status.
We are currently in touch with Salem State University, Approach International Student Center, Clark University, Boston International Academy and Computer Systems Institute in Worcester, which may be able to accept students as part of the transfer process.
Students studying on F-1 visas should contact Joanne Farley, Director of International Student Services and Study Abroad, as soon as possible to discuss their individual circumstances and next steps. She can be reached at jfarley [at] framingham.edu (jfarley[at]framingham[dot]edu).
Where can I continue studying English?
Framingham State is contacting nearby institutions to help students identify appropriate options for continuing their English-language education.
Potential options include:
- Salem State University
- Clark University
- Approach International Student Center in Marlborough
- Boston International Academy
- MassBay Community College
- Computer Systems Institute in Worcester
The best option will depend on each student's individual circumstances, including whether they require F-1 visa assistance.
Students who do not require F-1 visa assistance may wish to explore programs at MassBay Community College, Keefe at Night, Framingham Adult ESL Plus (FAESL), Framingham Public Library’s Literacy Unlimited or Literacy Volunteers in Worcester.
Will Framingham State help students transition to another program?
Yes. The University is working with nearby colleges and other institutions to identify transfer options and help students understand their choices.
Is this closure related to Framingham State's undergraduate or graduate programs?
No.
The English Language Programs are community-based programs and are separate from Framingham State University's undergraduate and graduate academic programs.
The closure of ELP has no impact on the University's undergraduate or graduate programs, admissions or academic offerings.
Will Framingham State offer English Language Programs again in the future?
At this time, the University does not have plans to offer intensive and community-based English Language Programs in the future.
Why is Framingham State closing the program now?
The University regularly evaluates its programs to ensure that they are sustainable and continue to meet the needs of the communities they serve.
After reviewing enrollment and the sustainability of the ELP programs, the University determined that declining enrollment makes it no longer feasible to continue them.
Does the University still value the role these programs have played in the community?
Absolutely.
The decision to close the programs reflects the sustainability of the program, not its value or the accomplishments of the students and instructors who have been part of it.
Framingham State is grateful to the instructors, staff and students who have contributed to the ELP community over the years and recognizes the important role the programs have played in helping students develop their English-language skills and pursue educational, professional and personal opportunities.
Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
For questions about your current ELP course or the transition to another program, please contact:
Anne Roberti, Executive Director of English Language Programs and Community Education at aroberti [at] framingham.edu (aroberti[at]framingham[dot]edu).
Students attending the ELP program on F1 Visas should contact:
Joanne Farley, Director of International Student Services and Study Abroad at jfarley [at] framingham.edu (jfarley[at]framingham[dot]edu).
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