Learn English

We will help you determine whether you should consider an adult school or community college for your next ESL class based on how you categorize your knowledge of the English language. Choose between Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced ESL classes via our Class Finder Tool.

Should You Take ESL at an Adult School or a Community College?

We can help you choose thee best place for your next English class.

First, think about your English level. How comfortable are you with English?

• Beginner: You are just starting. You need help with the alphabet, numbers, and basic words and sentences.
• Intermediate or Advanced: You can speak, read, and write some English, but you want to improve.

Start at an Adult School

Adult schools are a good choice if you are a beginner or if you want to improve your everyday English.

Choose an adult school if:

• You are a beginner in English.
  You need practice with the alphabet, numbers, and basic conversation.
• You want to improve everyday English.
  You want to communicate at work, at your child’s school, and in your community.
• You did not finish high school and want to earn your GED.
  Many adult schools offer GED preparation classes.

Benefits of Adult School

• Classes are for students at all English levels.
• Materials are free.
• You can attend regardless of immigration status.
• You must be 18 years old or older, or an emancipated minor.

Consider Community College

Community colleges are a good choice if you already have at least an intermediate level of English and want to continue your education or job training.

Choose a community college if:

• You want a certificate for a specific job.
  Community colleges offer career programs in fields such as:
  • Computers
  • Business
  • Aviation
  • Mechanics
  • Healthcare
  • And more
• You want to transfer to a 4-year university.
  Community colleges offer separate classes for speaking, reading, writing, and grammar.

Benefits of Community College

• Career certificates and degree programs
• Transfer opportunities to universities
• ESL classes focused on specific skills
• Academic counseling to help you make an education plan

Cost of Classes

Adult School

• Free for all students, regardless of immigration status
• No charge for books or materials

Community College

Costs vary based on:

• Number of classes you take
• How long you have lived in California
• Family income
• Immigration status

Financial aid may be available. Ask the college’s financial aid office for help.

Do I Need a Social Security Number?

Adult School

• No Social Security number is required

Community College

• You may be asked for a Social Security number, but you do not have to provide one.
• If you do not have one, you may be charged higher tuition as an international student.
• If you attend high school in California, ask about AB 540, which may help you qualify for lower tuition.

Find Classes Near You

If you want to find adult school and community college ESL classes in your area, at times that work for your schedule, use the Class Finder Tool.