Since 1965 the Texas Intensive English Program (TIEP) has provided the highest quality English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction. TIEP has helped more than 30,000 students and professionals from 127 countries to achieve their goals. The program accepts individuals who are 17 years of age or older (except for customized group programs). TOEFL is not required for admission. TIEP is authorized under Federal law to issue Form I-20 to nonimmigrant students. TIEP is a nonprofit educational organization and is a division of the Texas International Education Consortium (TIEC), an association of 32 Texas public universities for international education. TIEC assists educators and students worldwide to strengthen instructional programs, build effective management and administrative structures, and develop a foundation for active, life-long learning. Founded in 1985 this independent, self-funded, non-profit corporation delivers a full range of services by utilizing the extensive resource base of 32 public universities in the State of Texas along with other institutions in the United States.