FAQs for Credit ESL Students

The classes have different purposes. To better understand the differences, take a look at

CREDIT ESL VS NONCREDIT ESL, what is the difference?

After you apply, you can take the Credit ESL Self Placement Survey (SPS). It is not a test. It is a guide that will help you decide which level is the best for you. Choosing the right level will increase your chances of success. Follow the instructions carefully. After you choose your level, you will talk to a counselor and discuss your choices. To take the Credit ESL SPS, go to MyGCC>Other Services>my Credit ESL SPS. Here is a short video and a handout to help you access the Credit ESL SPS.

After you enroll in your classes, you have the first two weeks to add or drop classes if you want to make changes. Usually, the teachers will give a test at the beginning of the semester to check if you chose the right level. If the teacher does not give a test, but you feel that you cannot keep up with the lessons, talk to the teacher or a counselor before you make a decision.

You can bring your transcript from other colleges and talk to a GCC counselor to have the courses evaluated. Visit Counseling

Credit ESL classes are not free, but you may qualify for financial aid.

Helpful Links

• Admissions and Records Enrollment Fees
• Financial Aid

There are five levels of Credit ESL for the main courses. A better way to understand the sequence is to look at the course sequence chart. See Credit ESL course sequence chart.

You do not have to take all courses in the level at the same time, but it is highly recommended that you take them together. You will learn English better this way because you will be reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English using all materials appropriate for the level. For example, if you place yourself in level 3, you can take ESL 133 (Grammar and Writing), ESL 136 (Reading and Vocabulary), ESL 135 (Listening and Speaking), and ESL 137 (Spelling). There is also the possibility of taking different levels in different skills. For example, you could be in ESL 133 (Grammar and Writing level 3) and take a different Listening/Speaking class like ESL 145.

If you finished College Prep 5 (former CRESL 5) in Noncredit ESL, you can register into ESL 141 (Grammar and Writing level 4) without taking the Credit ESL Self Placement Survey (SPS). However, if you completed any other Noncredit ESL class, you still have to take the SPS.

It is highly recommended that you take all the courses for your level because they will work together to improve your English language skills. The listening and speaking classes will prepare you to give presentations that follow approximately the same format as the writing for the same level. The spelling classes will help you with spelling patterns using the academic vocabulary you need for writing.

If you fail a class two times (receive a grade of D or F), you will need permission to repeat this class, and you will lose priority registration for that course. You will need to have a form signed by the Division Chair and an instructor who will add you to his or her class.