English as a Second Language

Adult Basic Education Center - Part Time ESL Program

English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at ECC are for non-native speakers of English. In ESL classes, students practice reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English. Teachers and college support staff help students build skills for work and everyday life. Students from any language, group, or nationality are welcome. All classes are taught in English.

To enroll in ESL classes, you must be at least 16 years old and not currently enrolled in high school. If you are under 18, you must show documents that prove you are not required to attend high school under Illinois law.

Adults who live in Illinois and are not on a limited or temporary visa may enroll in ABEC’s free ESL classes. Adults on temporary visas, such as student, visitor, or au pair visas, cannot enroll in the free program because of federal rules. A tuition-based Intensive English program is available for English language learners on these visas.

To get started, visit Building K or apply online at elgin.edu/adulteducation. All students take a placement test so they can be placed in the right class level. New students also attend an orientation to learn about the program and ask questions.

ESL classes are offered on campus and at other locations in the district. Online classes are also available. These classes do not count toward a college degree or certificate.

Beginning ESL Instruction

Beginning ESL classes help English language learners build basic skills in English. Students practice reading, writing, speaking, and understanding spoken English. Classes also help students improve basic math and computer skills. Students learn about their rights and responsibilities in their community. After finishing the high beginning level, students may leave the program or move on to intermediate ESL classes to prepare for work or further study.

Intermediate ESL Instruction

Intermediate ESL classes help students prepare for college or a career. Students continue to improve their skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, math, and technology. They also learn academic and job-readiness skills. After completing the high intermediate levels, students may choose to earn a high school equivalency certificate, enter career or job training, move into advanced ESL classes, or enter the workforce. An academic advisor is available to help students plan their next step.

Advanced ESL Instruction

Advanced ESL classes prepare students for college-level courses. In these classes, students focus on academic reading, writing, speaking, listening, and technology skills needed to be successful in college classes.

After completing the advanced ESL levels, students are ready to enroll in college degree programs. Students who plan to move into college are encouraged to take the College Transitions for ESL Learners course. To enroll in this course, students must receive a recommendation from ESL faculty or staff. Students in this course must also enroll in a transferable college credit class.

After successfully completing the College Transitions for ESL Learners course, students may receive a tuition waiver for one three-credit-hour college class. To qualify, students must live or work in the district.

Stevens Amendment (FY26): Approximately $620,695 (37%) 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.