Application Interest List
The ESL Program has an application interest list. See instructions below to add your name.
Build Confidence in your English Skills
Adult Education English as a Second Language (ESL) classes help students who have another primary language learn basic and beginning-level English language skills. Classes are limited, and students must join the interest list.
Who Can Enroll
The U.S. Department of Education updated the eligibility requirements for Adult Education services to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and certain other eligible non-citizens.
To enroll in ESL classes, you must:
- Upload an acceptable eligibility ID document (examples: Texas Driver’s License with Real ID, U.S. Passport or Birth Certificate, Permanent Resident Card)
- Be at least 17 years old
- Students 17-18 years old must upload a Parental Consent Form AND a withdrawal form if your last attended High School was in Texas
- Live in the Austin Community College service area.
- Not hold an F1 or F2 (International Student), J1 or J2 (Exchange Visitor), or B1/B2 (business/tourism) visa
Join the Interest List
New applicants:
- Click the “Join Interest List” button and click “First time user click here” to create your account.
- Once you are logged in, click on the purple button “Apply Now!” under “Adult Education.”
- Click one time on the red button “Join Interest List” under ESL.
Returning applicants:
- Click the “Join Interest List” button and login using your email address and password.
- Once you are logged in, click on the purple button “Apply Now!” under “Adult Education.”
- Click one time on the red button “Join Interest List” under ESL.
Need help? Contact the Adult Education office.
I’m on the interest list—now what?
The ESL program enrolls new students five times each year. Remember to check your email! Once you are selected, you only have a few days to respond to enroll.
Choose Your Classes
After you apply, you will take a placement test to help place you in a class best suited for your abilities. An ESL specialist will help you choose and register for classes that work with your schedule. You must attend class 75 percent of the time to stay enrolled, so make sure you choose a class that works with your schedule.
Student Support and Resources
View Adult Education Student Support for information about tutoring, disability accommodations, Capital Metro passes, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
If English is not my native language, but my goal is to pass my high school equivalency (HSE) exam (such as the GED®), should I take ESL classes or HSE classes first?
This is best addressed on a case-by-case basis. Lower-level English speakers might want to start in ESL classes. HSE classes do not focus on many of the skills ESL students need to learn. Often students who start with ESL classes progress through the levels faster than students who started in an HSE class. ACC offers a transition class for higher-level ESL students who want to get their HSE certificate. Contact the Adult Education office to discuss options.
What if I need accommodations to participate in the classroom?
Classroom and testing accommodations are available for eligible students. You must provide official documentation about your disability. If you don’t have documentation, ACC’s Student Accessibility Services or Adult Education staff can help you identify strategies to help you succeed. Contact an Adult Education office if you have questions.