ESL and ESOL: English Language Programs

You may be at this level if you:

• know only basic English words and phrases
• understand very slow, simple English
• need repetition often
• use short answers and gestures

You can probably say: “My name is Luis.” “I work nights.” “Please repeat.” “I don’t understand.”

You can probably read simple signs and labels, answer basic questions, and fill out simple forms.

Your writing may look like short phrases and simple sentences.

You may be at this level if you:

• understand simple conversations
• talk about daily life and work
• ask simple questions
• make grammar mistakes, but people understand you

You can probably say: “What time does class start?” “I need help with this.” “Yesterday I worked overtime.”

You can probably have short conversations, follow simple directions, and read simple messages and schedules.

Your writing may look like short paragraphs with some mistakes.

You may be at this level if you:

• communicate in most daily situations
• understand the main idea of conversations
• explain simple problems and opinions
• sometimes struggle with fast speech

You can probably say: “I think there was a mistake.” “Can you explain that again?” “I want a better position.”

You can probably read short articles and workplace documents, give opinions with reasons, and participate in discussions.

Your writing may look like organized paragraphs and short essays.

You may be at this level if you:

• communicate comfortably in most situations
• understand normal-speed English
• explain ideas clearly
• participate actively in discussions

You can probably say:

• “Communication is important at work, because it improves efficiency and allows employees to give and follow instructions with minimal confusion.”
• “I don’t think in-person work is strictly better than remote work, but rather it depends on the situation.”

You can probably understand lectures and presentations, summarize information, and work independently in English.

Your writing may look like multi-paragraph essays and detailed emails.

Yes. Intermediate students often qualify for both programs and benefit from taking both.

That depends on your level. ESOL students may take 1, 2, 3, or even 4 classes. Students can only take one ESL class at a time, but some intermediate and high beginner English speakers qualify for an ESL class and can take ESOL classes at the same time.

Taking multiple classes and retesting as needed can accelerate your progress.

No. Many students go straight to ESOL classes. ESL is not a requirement for ESOL.

ESL classes meet for four hours each week. ESOL classes are shorter but require more homework. Most classes meet Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday.

An ESOL student might take:

See the current ESL schedule and the current ESOL schedule.

ESL classes are free but are not appropriate for all learners.  

ESOL tuition depends on whether you register through Community Education or Credit:

• Community Education: $255 per course
  • Open to all students, regardless of residency status.
  • Out-of-district and out-of-state students can choose this option to save on tuition.
• Credit: $255 per course for in-district students.
  • Out-of-district and out-of-state tuition rates apply based on residency.
  • Financial aid and scholarships are available for eligible credit students.

ACC Free Tuition Program: ESOL classes are included in ACC’s Free Tuition Program for eligible recent local high school graduates and GED recipients. Interested students must apply and register as credit students.

For most ESOL courses, students must also purchase a textbook. (Cost: $30-75).

Yes. Tuition is $255 per course.

• 1 course: $255 (plus textbook)
• 2 courses: $510 (plus textbooks)

Example: If you enroll in both a Grammar class and a Writing class in the same semester, your tuition will be $510.

It depends on where you start and how many courses you take each semester. 

ESL students enroll in one course per term and typically remain enrolled in a specific level for 1-2 semesters before advancing.

Students who enter the ESOL program at Level 1 and attend full time can complete the ESOL program in one year (three semesters).

Both programs have face-to-face and online options, so you can keep studying English around your work and family schedule.

Yes. Our classes are based on your level of English, not your past education experience. ESL and ESOL have no minimum education requirements. Whether you left school early or have a PhD, we have an English class for you.