The guidelines presented here consider important questions of English language proficiency for foreign students entering colleges and universities in the United States. Several problems are discussed: admissions, measurement of proficiency, responsibility of the institution, administration of the English-as-a-second-language (ESL) program, ESL and other subjects, follow-up and evaluation, operation of the ESL program, choice of what should be taught, and funding for the program. Appendixes list ESL tests available, services offered by agencies in the international field, and guidelines for intensive English programs. A bibliography is included. (VM)