English as a Second Language
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English as a Second Language (ESL) classes teach how to read, write, listen, and speak English. The classes offer students support and many opportunities to practice. Our classes are taught by experienced ESL teachers who care about their students.
You are welcome here! No documents are needed.
If you need help, please call our office at (510) 886-1000.
Or send an email to [email protected] and write "I want to learn English" in the email.
REGISTRATION FOR FALL 2024 IS OPEN NOW!
All students must first take a placement test so that you are in the correct class level.
Click on the blue button to the right to sign up for an appointment to take the placement test and to register for class.
Use the arrows next to each question below to see the answers to Frequently Asked Questions about our program.
What do I need to do first before I start class?
Before you start class, you must take a test so that we can place you in the correct class level. You can find information about signing up for the test lower down on this page.
Testing does not guarantee placement in a class; students may be placed on a waiting list if their level or preferred class is full.
What is the placement test?
The test is a placement test that shows how well you already know English. It will take about 90 minutes. You must have an appointment to take the test. Please do not bring children with you to the test.
How do I sign up for the test?
Students who were in good standing in Spring 2024 are CURRENT STUDENTS.
Students who have never taken ESL classes at Castro Valley Adult & Career Education OR who have not attended class in the last 3 months are NEW STUDENTS.
If you need help, please call our office at (510) 886-1000.
Or send an email to [email protected] and write "I want to learn English" in the email.
If you have already completed two years of class in the Advanced class, please call our office at (510) 886-1000 and ask to speak to our Transition Specialist. We'd like to help you achieve your goals!
When is class? Is class in person or online?
Classes are offered in the morning or evening. Most of our classes are in person, but if you already know some English, you can choose:
Does it cost any money? Who can come to class?
Classes are free. You must be 18 years of age or older to attend. Please do not bring children with you to class.
When do classes start?
Fall quarter classes start the week of August 12, 2024. Registration is open NOW! Please use the blue button on this page to sign up for an appointment to take the placement test. Returning students who received a FastPass from their teacher in May do not need to make an appointment. Returning students with a FastPass should check their email for more information.
What about Covid-19?
We want all our students and staff to stay safe and healthy.
The morning of your testing appointment, please make sure that you feel well and do not have a fever. If you are sick, please stay home.
I'm an Au Pair. Can I take English classes?
Au pairs are welcome to take our ESL classes to improve their English, but since we do NOT issue academic credit for any of our ESL classes, we are not able to help meet the educational requirements for a J-1 visa. If you are an au pair who needs to take English classes to satisfy the educational components of your visa, you should discuss those requirements with your agency and/or host family. We are not able to assist with immigration paperwork or verification of hours for the purposes of a visa.