All students whose primary language is not English need to take a language placement test. The score that you receive on this test will help us figure out which classes would be most helpful for you in reaching your goals. According to your scores you may be placed in Foundations level, Intermediate level or Advanced level. You may be placed in the Adult Education ESL program if your scores do not show you are ready to be at the academic level yet. If your scores show that you do not need ESL, you will get a waiver from the ESL program.
Total testing time: < 2 hours
Placement and Course Selection
After you take the placement test, you will meet with the Academic ESL Program Coordinator. You will discuss your scores and your personal background and pick your courses. You will either be placed in the Foundations (Level 5), Intermediate (Level 6) or Advanced (Level 7) class.
Classes include face-to-face instruction and online instruction. You meet your teacher in-person two days a week for 100 minutes each class, and also attend some classes online. You work with your teacher and classmates in groups and pairs. Activities include presentations, discussions, debates and research. You can also participate in conversation groups and projects with American students. Classrooms have internet, Smartboards and digital video/audio tools. The ESL computer lab has programs that help you with listening, pronunciation, reading and writing. Tutors also are available to help you.
All F-1 student visa holders must be full-time students. Citizens or permanent residents can be either full-time or part-time students.
FOUNDATION – LEVEL 5
ESL 051/051A – Foundations I
ESL 053/053A – Foundations II
INTERMEDIATE – LEVEL 6
* Sections marked with A are the online classes.
ESL 062/062A Intermediate Grammar
ESL 064/064A Intermediate Reading
ESL 066/ 066A Intermediate Writing
ESL 068/ESL 068A Intermediate Listening/Speaking
ESL 070/070A Intermediate Communication Skills
ADVANCED – LEVEL 7
* Sections marked with A are the 1 credit/hour online component of the courses that students have to complete virtually during weekends.
* Students receive college credit for the COMM 100/105.
ESL 072/072A/COMM105 Advanced Grammar
ESL 074/074A Advanced Reading
ESL 076/076A Advanced Writing
ESL 078/078A/COMM 100 Advanced Communication Skills