Is Credit ESL for me?

At PCC, there are two ESL programs - the Credit ESL program and the Noncredit ESL program. Both programs offer English as a second language classes for those whose first language is not English. However, there are many differences between the programs. Use the chart below to see which one is best for you!

Program

Credit ESL

Noncredit ESL
Core Program
  • 4 levels of grammar & writing classes
  • High beginning to advanced
  • Top 2 levels receive university transfer credit
  • 5 levels for job and life skills
  • low beginning to high-intermediate
  • Each level receives a noncredit state-issued certificate
Recommended classes
  • Reading - 4 levels
  • Listening/speaking - 5 Levels
  • Pronunciation - 2 levels
  • Grammar review - 3 levels
  • Workplace ESL
 Vocational ESL (ESLV) for a variety of careers, conversation, grammar, vocabulary development, and writing.
Placement LOEP - Contact the languages division to make an appointment. CELSA - Contact the Noncredit ESL program at the CEC to schedule a placement examination
Support services Writing Support Center, tutoring, workshops, conversation groups, pronunciation groups. ESL tutoring at the Liberal Arts Success Center.
Residence
  • Residents (in-district, out-of-district; documented, undocumented residents)
  • International F-1 visa holders (note that PCC does not currently offer F-1 visa for English-only study.)
  • Residents (in-district, out-of-district; documented, undocumented residents)
Attendance Requirements Students must start at the beginning of the semester. Students may start at any time during the semester.
Students study ESL and other academic classes

 ESL, VESL (vocational ESL) and/or career    technical education and/or high school equivalency classes
Cost
  • Tuition: California residents: $46/unit (most classes are 3-4 units). Non-residents: $307/unit
  • Plus $22 Health Fee, $2 ASB Fee and $10 Student Activity Fee per semester
  • Textbooks approximately $100-150 per semester. Some classes are OER and or ZTC.
 Free
Contact English and Language Studies Division
 1570 E. Colorado Blvd. C245
 Pasadena, CA 91106
 (626) 585-7371
Visit Department Home 		 Noncredit ESL:
3035 E. Foothill Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91107
(626) 585-3026
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