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Zero cost classes
ESL classes are provided at no cost to eligible students.
Student resources
Access many of the same amenities as full-time Central Piedmont students, such as libraries, fitness centers, Career Services, and the Wellness Center.
Flexible scheduling
Classes are offered during the day and evening at Cato, Central, Harper and Levine campuses, as well as several community sites.
Comprehensive support
Access personalized academic advising, career counseling, and digital literacy training.
Your journey to fluency and a brighter career starts here — join a community that speaks your language of success.
About the English as a Second Language program
Central Piedmont Community College provides comprehensive English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction designed to help non-native speakers improve their reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in a supportive, community-focused environment.
The curriculum will move you from foundational literacy to advanced communication. By focusing on practical applications, the program ensures that every lesson can be used immediately for daily life, better jobs or educational opportunities.
Eligibility
To be eligible for ESL, you must:
- be 16 years or older
- be officially withdrawn from your last K-12 public, private, or home school (if you are under the age of 18)
- not be in the U.S. on an F-1 or J-1 visa
If you are an international student with an F-1 visa or in the U.S. as an “au pair” with a J-1 visa, you are not eligible to take Adult ESL. Instead, consider exploring the English as a Foreign Language course if you have an F-1 or J-1 visa or if you want to earn college credit for English courses.
Frequently asked questions
After submitting your application, you will attend an orientation session. During orientation, you will take a placement test, meet with your academic advisor and register for classes. Orientation will require several hours. You may either attend one daytime orientation session, or split orientation across two evening sessions.
Yes, hybrid learning options are available for students who prefer a mix of classroom instruction and digital coursework.