English as a Second Language (ESL)

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Welcome, English Language Learners!

If your primary language is not English, you’re not alone! Students at Maricopa Community Colleges come from more than 100 countries and speak over 50 languages—making our language learning programs among the most diverse in Arizona. Welcome! We’re glad you’re here.

The English as a Second Language (ESL) programs at Maricopa Community Colleges can help you learn English, improve your English speaking and writing skills, gain confidence as an English speaker, and grow personally and professionally.

Our classes are small, so you can get extra help, with daytime and evening classes offered. All classes are taught in English and speakers of all languages are welcome!

Select Your College

Find the program you need at the college that is most convenient for you!

 

 

 

Estrella Mountain Community College

ESL non-credit classes

GateWay Community College

ESL non-credit classes

Mesa Community College

ESL credit classes

ESL non-credit classes

ESL certificate

ESL conversation circles

Paradise Valley Community College

ESL credit classes

ESL certificate

ESL conversation circles

Rio Salado College

South Mountain Community College

ESL credit classes

ESL certificate

Explore ESL Classes

We offer a variety of ESL classes on listening and speaking, grammar, writing, and reading—for all levels. We also provide non-credit community ESL classes. Classes are anywhere from 10 to 16 weeks in length. See all ESL classes or explore our certificate offerings.

 

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Listening and Speaking

Learn how to ask and respond to questions, express opinions, give presentations, take notes in class, and practice conversational skills.

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Grammar

Enhance your understanding and use of English grammar in speaking and writing. Topics include vocabulary, parts of speech, verb tenses, and punctuation.

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Reading

Improve your vocabulary and pronunciation of English words and vowel sounds.

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Writing

Learn how to write papers and presentations for classes, and gain a better understanding of the writing process.

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Skill Levels

ESL classes include all levels: (1) Beginner, (2) Early Intermediate, (3) Intermediate, and (4) Advanced. Levels are determined by advisor recommendation or testing.

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Other ESL Classes

In addition to our traditional ESL classes, we also offer vocational classes, conversation circles, and classes in pronunciation and vocabulary.

Student Testimonials

 

 

Determining Your Skill Level

If you don’t know your level of English proficiency, that’s OK. We invite you to take the CELSA test—a free exam—to determine your skill level. The CELSA test is a timed exam (45 minutes) with 75 multiple-choice questions, and does not include a listening or speaking portion. Whatever college you select for your ESL classes, they will help you sign up for the CELSA test.

Explore ESL Placement Options

 

Resources

Before taking ESL courses at Maricopa Community Colleges, you will first need to become a student.

See Our Enrollment Steps

Applied English Language Skills

Communication Skills for Non-Native English Speakers

Oral Communication Fluency for Non-Native English Speakers

International students who want to enroll in one of our ESL programs should refer to the additional enrollment steps for visa and documentation verification.

View Requirements

If you are interested in teaching ESL at Maricopa Community Colleges, check our hiring qualifications and apply by contacting the ESL Coordinator at the school where you would like to work.

See Our ESL Faculty Credentials

Once you register for classes, you will need to pay your tuition.

Learn More

Many students use financial aid such as student loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study positions to fund their education.

Explore Financial Aid

Many Maricopa Community Colleges offer free Rosetta Stone accounts for ESL students. Check with your college to see if this is available.