English language teaching in Iran has usually been considered an EFL model. This position, though common and widespread, seems to need revision on several grounds. Through comparing EFL, ESL and EIL (English as an international language) models based on Smith's (1978) comparative study, the present article reveals that the ELT in Iran no longer follows the EFL tradition. The comparative evaluation makes it clear that in terms of most categories; ELT in Iran shows the characteristics of EIL. Therefore, through characterizing it as a developmental process along a continuum towards EIL, the present study argues for instances of paradigm shift and thus claims that the ELT context in Iran is ripe for revision.
