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| Item | ESL Part-Time | Intensive English |
| Eligibility | Only Illinois residents are eligible for the part-time Adult Basic Education program. Federal grants partially fund this program, so students on certain types of visas are not eligible due to visa restrictions (e.g., visitor visas, student visas, and au pairs). | All students are eligible for the Intensive English Program but must have a certain level of proficiency to enter. It is appropriate for students on an F-1 visa. |
| Cost | Part-time Adult Basic Education ESL classes are free to eligible students. | The Intensive English Program charges tuition. |
| Time | The part-time program meets 5-6 hours per week. Classes typically meet twice weekly (Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday). It offers both morning and evening classes. | Full-time (although students may opt for part-time within the program). It only offers daytime classes. |
| Class start dates | Classes start in August/September, January/February, and April. | There are multiple start dates throughout the year. |
| number of weeks | 10-16 weeks long | 4-week sessions (fall/spring) or 5-week summer workshops. |
| Location | In-person classes are available at various locations, including Elgin, Hanover Park, Carpentersville, and (starting fall 2022) Burlington. | Elgin campus only |
| Online available? | Yes | No |
| Levels | 9 levels and serves students with no English proficiency through pre-college. | 3 levels require a minimum understanding of English to qualify for the program. |
| Registration process | Complete an online form to start the process. | Enrollment is always open |
| Placement test | Yes | Yes, A placement test is required for all new students. |
| Contact Information | Come to Building K's front reception desk or call 847-214-7163. | Come to Building C, Room C221, or call 847-214-7163. |
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Last updated on Jan 19, 2024
Building K, Room K100
847-214-6904
Fax: 847-931-3919
ABECregistration@elgin.edu