English as a Second Language (ESL)

If you are interested in Adult Basic Education classes, please complete our form to start the process and we will contact you with details. If you have additional questions, call 847-214-6904 or email ABECRegistration@elgin.edu.

Texto en español.

English as second language instruction can benefit any non-native English speaker, regardless of language group or nationality. Gaining confidence in written and spoken English skills can be critical to your college and workforce success.

ECC’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program focuses on reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Courses are offered day and evening at the Elgin Community College  Campus and satellite locations.

  • As a student, you will be supported as you gain English language fluency for success in school and at work. 
  • Courses are offered day and evening at several locations, including the Elgin, Carpentersville, Streamwood, and the Hanover Park Education and Work Center.
  • All classes are provided free of charge to eligible immigrant students.
  • A placement test is required.

Part-Time ESL Programs

  • Beginning Level

    Courses offered at the beginning literacy, low beginning, and high beginning levels equip students with basic survival English skills. Upon completing the high beginning level, students can function in familiar social situations, make inquiries related to everyday activities, express opinions, write simple sentences, and read familiar texts.

    • Who should attend: Non-native English speakers from any language group or nationality.
  • Intermediate Level

    Courses offered at the low and high intermediate levels prepare students for higher-level education or employment opportunities. Upon completing the high intermediate level, students may exit the program, continue to advanced ESL, enroll in the intensive ESL program, or transition into other college courses, as appropriate. An academic advisor is available to help students make the transition. Classes are offered free of charge to qualifying students.

    • Who should attend: Non-native English speakers from any language group or nationality who wish to prepare for higher-level education or employment opportunities.
  • Advanced Level

    Courses offered at the advanced level prepare students for entrance into college-level classes. Upon completing the advanced level, students can read and write at a level that ensures success in college-level English courses. They can receive free in-district tuition for one, three-credit-hour college classes to help them achieve their educational and career-related goals. A student services specialist is available to help students make the transition to college-level English.

    • Who should attend: Non-native English speakers from any language group or nationality who wish to prepare for entrance into college-level classes.

  • If you currently hold a student visa, you may not enroll in the ESL Program, but should consider our Intensive English Program for students who would like to begin a degree or certificate program at ECC. All other students on certain types of visas are not permitted to join the free adult education program.

Online Registration

Sign-up for classes using our online form, and we will contact you to complete the process.

Email ABECRegistration@elgin.edu or call 847-214-6904 for more information.

How to register

Sign-up for classes

FAQ

Stevens Amendment
Approximately $612,638 (36%) of the Illinois Adult Education and Literacy Program cost at Elgin Community College is federally funded under Title II, Adult Education and Family Literacy of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014.

Improve Your English with ESL Classes

Improve Your English with ESL Classes

Learn about our English as a Second Language (ESL) program. These free classes help students improve their English language skills. Learn about the program, scheduling, and how to sign up for classes.

Watch Video