ESL programs offer focused classroom and computer-based English as a Second Language training. Programs are divided into three subject areas:

1. Vocabulary and conversation
2. Writing and grammar
3. Reading strategies

By improving writing, listening, and reading comprehension skills, all ESL programs are designed to help prepare students for participation in U.S. college and university courses.

ESL offers instructor-led lectures, instructor-led labs, computer-based materials, and project-based learning sessions. This method allows students to learn English and reach their goals more efficiently.

Learning Levels

ESL programs consist of three progressive level programs:

• Beginner ESL
• Intermediate ESL
• Advanced ESL

Each level is three academic quarters (30 academic weeks) in length. These programs are not eligible for Title IV funding (financial aid).

Beginner ESL – 1 Year/30 weeks/3 quarters

Tuition – $3,600 per year or $1,200 per quarter
Book and Supply Fee – $90 per quarter

In Beginner ESL, students learn the basics of communicating in English.  Students are guided by instructors while practicing fundamental language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  In lecture and lab classes, students are taught how to use new grammar and vocabulary to describe simple, “everyday” topics and to become comfortable interacting with classmates, teachers, and native English speakers.  Students with placement exam scores of 0-50 are placed in Beginner ESL.

Beginner Vocabulary and Conversation
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

Beginner Writing and Grammar
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

Beginner Reading Strategies
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

Intermediate ESL – 1 Year/30 weeks/3 quarters

Tuition – $3,600 per year or $1,200 per quarter
Book and Supply Fee – $90 per quarter

English learners at the Intermediate level build on their existing language skills in reading and listening, and focus on more accurately expressing themselves in writing and conversation.   In lecture and lab classes, students gain knowledge that will help them become more confident interacting in a variety of situations at a proficient level. After successfully completing Intermediate ESL, students have further program options, such as the Academic and Skill Building Programs.  Students with placement exam scores of 51-76 are placed in Intermediate ESL.

Intermediate Vocabulary and Conversation
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

Intermediate Writing and Grammar
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

Intermediate Reading Strategies
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

Advanced ESL – 1 Year/30 weeks/3 quarters

Tuition – $3,600 per year or $1,200 per quarter
Book and Supply Fee – $90 per quarter

Advanced-level students are taught how to use higher level vocabulary in writing and conversation and are able to discuss complex topics. Advanced ESL students use critical thinking skills to engage in in-depth discussions on a wide range of subjects; they also learn conversational and idiomatic language that allows them to interact more naturally with native speakers. Upon completing this class, students are prepared to enter a variety of courses. Students with placement exam scores of 77-90 are placed in Advanced ESL.

Advanced Vocabulary and Conversation
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

Advanced Writing and Grammar
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

Advanced Reading Strategies
Course Length: 1 Quarter or 10 academic weeks

We offers ESL programs in Charlestown/Boston, Worcester, Lombard/Dupage, Skokie, and Chicago.