English as a Second Language (ESL)

Noncredit ESL offers two programs: the Free ESL program and the Supplemental Tuition ESL program.

Free ESL and Citizenship Classes*:

General Information:

Our free ESL program is designed for adults 16 years and older whose native language is not English.  This summer all classes will be in-person.  Fall classes will be offered both online or in-person.

     ONLINE classes: Online (virtual) classes are led by an ESL teacher via Zoom using ESL textbooks and online materials.

     IN-PERSON classes: Classes are at one of our local sites or one of our campuses.

Course Information:

• Levels: beginning through advanced
• Integrated skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing, conversation, grammar, career readiness, critical thinking
• Students may be admitted until registration cut-off date if space is available
• Times: morning, afternoon, and evening
• Semesters: classes are offered in spring, summer, and fall

Citizenship classes prepare students for the USCIS citizenship exam. Citizenship classes are ideal for post beginning and intermediate ESL students.

New Students: View and Pre-register for Free ESL and Citizenship Classes

Note: Per ICCB (Illinois Community College Board) regulations, au pairs are required to take post-secondary classes and cannot enroll in Oakton’s free ESL classes. They may, however, enroll in the College’s low-cost tuition classes. ESL classes are not intended for tourists, but rather for those who have come to live in the United States.

Supplemental Tuition ESL Classes:

General Information:
Classes focus on developing a specific skill. They supplement the free ESL classes. Classes are designed for students who are at an intermediate or advanced level. Tuition fees are subject to change. Register before the first day of class.

Course Information:

• Specific skills: conversation, pronunciation, grammar, idioms, reading and writing, and TOEFL Prep
• Levels: low-intermediate through advanced levels
• Locations: Classes may be offered in-person (Skokie or Des Plaines campus) or online
• Times: morning, afternoon, evening, and Saturdays
• Semesters: classes are offered in spring, summer, and fall

View and Register for Supplemental Tuition ESL Classes

*Free classes are funded by the Illinois Community College Board. In compliance with Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the Stevens Amendment), approximately 33 percent of the adult education program is federally funded.