Types of ESL Programs in America

A teacher reading over an ESL packet

There are a wide variety of learning programs available in America dedicated to helping you learn and master the English language, focusing on you and your schedule to make sure you’re properly prepared for a career and life in the United States. 

What Type of English as a Second Language Classes are Available?

There are a few common types of ESL classes, Intensive English Programs (IEP), American Language and Cultural Programs (ALCP), English as a New Language (ENL), and Bilingual Education (BE). 

Intensive English Programs (IEP)

Immersing the student in general English, academic English, and business English, the goal of intensive English programs is to make sure you are well prepared to speak English every single day. This type of program is perfect for someone who wants to be completely fluent in English, expecting to need to speak English in both their everyday life (such as going to the grocery store or the DMV) and during their professional life (by speaking to customers who only known English). Usually running five days a week, Monday through Friday, 

An IEP is designed for someone who is focusing on professional goals related to their English proficiency and who has the freedom and flexibility to be part of a rigorous program. Now, for those working adults or learners who have families, another program might be more appropriate for their work schedule. 

American Language and Cultural Programs (ALCP)

Another way for students to learn the English language faster is to be part of an immersive program, preferably alongside both other non-native English speakers and native English speakers who are there to help them integrate, develop their language skills, and build relationships. This is a great opportunity for younger students, especially those who have just graduated high school or are in their early twenties, as this program helps them develop immersion skills with linguistic, academic, and social skills, helping them to integrate into American society, which is essential for them to develop and establish a life in the United States. 

English as a New Language (ENL) 

For those who need a complete introduction to the English language from the ground up, ENL is an essential ESL program for them and their needs. The focus of ENL programs is to start with the grammatical basics of English, starting with the alphabet, numbers, and simple sentence structure. The result of this program is that ESL students can have a stronger grasp of reading, writing, and simple speaking skills. 

For new immigrants to the United States with a limited background in English, ENL is the first step to survival, making sure they can read labels, street signs, and understand simple conversations when talking to a stranger, and can be enrolled in by those who are working at the same time and don’t have the flexible schedule someone enrolled in an ALCP or an IEP. 

Bilingual Education (BE)

A bilingual education is for those who are looking to help expedite their education, their career, and their English language skills. As the next step up from ENL, bilingual education is for students who are looking to slowly develop their English language skills over the course of a couple of years but have the ability to speak and learn in their native language in the meantime, so they can not only develop their skills in English but learn more on an academic level that their current English language level would allow them to. 

A Bilingual Education in Chicago for Spanish-Speaking Students?

“Start in Spanish, End in English” is the motto behind St. Augustine’s Academic Program for Spanish-speaking students. With a majority of Hispanic students and working adults who want to get their degree but need flexible classes that work with them and their jobs, St. Augustine was designed around making sure your future is the priority in academic success. With a variety of resources, both financial and academic, St. Augustine can help you achieve your dreams and find a promising career without ever having to give up your current job or lifestyle. Are you ready to master your English language skills and get a degree from an American-accredited college?