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Basic and Transitional Studies

English as a Second Language (ESL)

ESL classes help non-native English speakers improve their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Class Schedule

Classes are held Monday–Thursday, and students choose either:

  • Morning classes: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM (some levels end at 12:00 PM)
  • Evening classes: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

All ESL classes are primarily in-person. We do not currently offer online-only ESL classes.

Levels of ESL

There are 8 levels of ESL at Seattle Central:   
Level 1, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, 5, 81A, 81B

  • Beginning levels focus on listening, vocabulary, and basic grammar.
  • Higher levels include note-taking, writing, oral presentations, and class discussions. See the ESL Pathway Map for more details on the levels and progression.

Cost

Classes cost $25 per quarter. Students who cannot pay can apply for a class fee waiver. 

Eligibility

This program is for U.S. residents, immigrants, and refugees. 

We cannot enroll individuals with F, M, B, Student, or J visas.    
If you have one of these visas, please contact International Programs for options.

Students under 19 years old who have not earned a high school diploma or equivalent (in the U.S. or another country) will need to provide a release from their school district (following State Board requirements). 

Welcome New Students

All new students must attend an orientation. We offer morning and evening orientations before each quarter. At orientation, new students will: learn about the ESL program, take assessments to determine their English level, set learning goals, and register for classes (if there is space in their level).

Get Started

Fall ESL classes:

The application form for Fall  ESL classes is now closed.
We are not accepting new ESL students.  

Winter 2026 Classes: 
Check this website on November 10, 2025. 
We will post the application if space is available. 
New student orientations will be in December 2025. Winter classes will begin January 5, 2026.

Please note: We cannot guarantee there will be space for new students. 

Steps for New Students:

APPLY NOW

  1. After completing the application, please wait for an email about New Student Orientation.
  2. Attend New Student Orientation (all four days).
  3. Register for classes at Orientation.
  4. Pay the $25 class fee in the first week of classes (or request a fee waiver if you cannot pay).

*Please note that space is limited for our classes. Apply as early as possible. You may need to wait several quarters until you can attend an orientation.

Contact

btsinfo@seattlecolleges.edu                             
206.934.4180