English Language Institute/China (ELIC), a U.S. based non-profit organization, is one of the first and largest organizations placing Christians in China to teach the English language.  

ELIC traces its history to 1979, a few brief months after contact with the State Bureau of Foreign Experts was established and relations between China and the U.S. were normalized.  In 1982, the first six ELIC teachers taught English in China.  In 2002, over 1000 Christians served with ELIC in six different Asian countries providing English training for the summer throughout the academic year.

In 1985 ELIC introduced the China Summer Teaching Program and the first 60 participants left North America  and gave their lives to the people of China.  Since then over 4000 people have dedicated their summer to answer the call -- possibly the very same call you are hearing today.

The China Summer Teaching Program has become a strategic component to the success of all ELIC Asia-based teaching programs.  The Chinese government views this program as a key initiative:  to bring the English language to young students through the training of Chinese school teachers.   These teachers need on-going training to master the elements of the English language, and that’s where the Summer Teaching Program comes in.  This ELIC program provides intensive English training to the Chinese English teachers through a well-written curriculum.  Once the Chinese teachers complete the summer course, they are officially certified to continue teaching English for four years.

ELIC teachers have distinguished themselves in their personal and professional conduct to such an extent that Chinese officials have repeatedly requested increases in personnel and programs.   Currently our China Summer Teaching Program is the only foreign program recognized across China for continuing education credit for Chinese teachers.

Commitment to excellence in the classroom is the first and most visible aspect of ELIC’s service.   This sincere commitment to excellence in preparation and presentation of English lessons communicates a love and concern for students, which is much more powerful than any words can express.  One's best effort in teaching is the manifestation of true humble service.  ELIC teachers go to Asia as servants to the people there.


ELIC has a firm commitment to every North American who participates in one of the summer programs to do everything possible to ensure a positive experience in Asia.  A major component of this commitment is in preparation.  ELIC is convinced that adequate and proper training of teachers is key to meeting Asian educational objectives.  ELIC Candidate Mobilizers are also available to answer your questions, help you raise the needed financial support, arrange your travel and acquire your visa, and place you on a team where your gifts will contribute to the success of the team as a whole.   On-site care is also a priority.  ELIC staff are available in-country for the duration of each program; to provide assistance and encouragement, and meet whatever needs that should arise.
Others agree, ELIC's Summer Teaching Programs bring hope and change lives.

  • A Recent Teacher in China
  • Mobilizing Dir. - Summer Teaching Programs
  • VP - Summer Teaching Programs
  • Teachers Sent
    From 1985 through today, each year has provided promising results abroad.   And although total teacher numbers have fluctuated from year to year as shown here over a select grouping of years, our primary purpose remains:  to send more Christians to Asia to teach English and change lives.

    Percentage of Returning Participants
    ELIC considers its returning teachers to be a driving force behind the continued success of the summer programs from year to year.  These returning teachers have been so impacted by the organization and their experience, that over fifty percent of them come back each year!  Will you join us again?