ESL at GCC

CREDIT ESL	NONCREDIT ESL
Receive grades and college credit units for transfer or a degree	Receive California certificate but no college credit
Join classes at the beginning of the term and stay until the end	Join or leave classes at any time during the term
Pay fees by units; lower fees after one-year California residency (F-1 visa students do not qualify for resident tuition)	Classes are free and no documentation is required
5 levels of focused skills: classes in grammar and writing, reading and composition, reading and vocabulary, listening and speaking, and spelling	6 levels of integrated skills: learn reading, writing, grammar, listening, and speaking all in one class; also Citizenship, conversation, job and transfer to Credit ESL classes
All courses will prepare you to be successful in other college classes.	All classes will prepare you to succeed in your life in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about ESL

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I just came to the United States less than one year ago. What ESL classes can I take?

We recommend that you start with Noncredit ESL.

Can I take credit and Noncredit ESL together?

Yes, you can take classes in both programs at the same time, but you need to apply to credit and noncredit separately.

Can I receive financial aid if I take Noncredit ESL?

Because noncredit classes are free, students do not qualify for financial aid.

Can I start taking other credit classes while I am taking ESL?

You can take other credit courses while in credit ESL depending on the other course requirements. Speaking to a counselor can help you with this.