English Language Skills
Montgomery College offers English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. There are three ESL programs for adult learners whose first language is not English.
Adult ESOL and Basic Skills for College and Careers
These programs are the most basic.
Learn more about Adult ESOL & Basic Skills for College and Careers (AEBSCC)
ESL Noncredit Program
This program is for students at the high beginning to intermediate level in their English language skills.
English Language for Academic Purposes (ELAP)
The ELAP programs offers the most advanced courses in Academic English development.
Learn more about English Language for Academic English (ELAP)
Note: Non-immigrants who need to show enrollment (F and J status) cannot attend the ESOL program. If you need the I-20 for an F-1 student visa, you may be eligible for the ESL Noncredit Program or the ELAP program. For more information, please review English Proficiency Required Testing and Placement new window for more information.
Program Details
This program is for you if you want:
- English for life, work, and the community.
- To learn to read in English.
- Basic Skills development.
- English to prepare for specific jobs or job-training programs in healthcare, customer service, building trades, and technology.
- There are additional programs for computer literacy, citizenship, and Vocational ESOL and job training for refugees and asylees.
Placement test: CASAS tests or other tests. Depending on the class or program there may be additional
entrance requirements.
Locations: Many sites throughout Montgomery County.
Tuition: Most Beginning to Intermediate ESOL level classes are free. This varies by program
and class. Attend Registration or Orientation session to learn more. If you have
a F1 Visa or J1 Visa you may not take these classes.
This program offers:
Students placed into this program will work on:
- Improving reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, listening, and speaking skills.
- Building a strong foundation for academic English for transition into ELAP courses and/or other career and academic programs at MC and beyond.
Placement test:
- Option 1: ESL Noncredit In-Person Placement
- Option 2: MC ESL Placement
Locations: Rockville and Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campuses
Tuition: Yes.
Students placed into this program will:
- Develop intermediate to advanced academic English skills for college and career success.
- Have access to co-enroll in some general education courses.
Placement test: MC ESL Placement
Tuition: Follows MC credit tuition rates.
Locations: Germantown, Rockville, and Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campuses.