Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Your Questions About ESL

• What are the differences between ESL and English courses?

  At De Anza, the ESL program

  • Focuses on the development of language skills
  • Includes grammar, writing and reading instruction for those learning English as a new language
  • Includes listening, speaking and pronunciation classes
  • Is designed to prepare you for college major and GE courses
  • Includes two transfer-level courses: ESL 5 and ESL 6
     

  The English program

  • Focuses on college-level reading and writing, with an emphasis on analysis and literature
  • Does not cover grammer, writing or reading instruction for those learning English as a new language
  • Primarily offers advanced transfer-level courses

• Where can I find information for international (F-1 visa) students? 

  De Anza's office of International Student Programs (ISP) was created to assist students who are attending on F-1 visas. For information, please visit the ISP website. 

• Do you offer free classes? 

  Yes! De Anza now offers noncredit ESL classes that are tuition-free. These classes do not provide academic credit toward a degree or transfer, but they are an excellent way to improve your skills. They can be a first step to entering and succeeding in college – and a noncredit course can satisfy requirements for taking a lower-level course so you can advance to a higher level of ESL.

  • To learn more, visit the Noncredit ESL Classes webpage. 

• Can I take free classes as a nonresident or F-1 visa student?

  Yes, anyone can take noncredit classes for FREE! (Remember that noncredit classes will not count to satisfy the minimum credit-load requirement for F-1 visa students.)

• How can I arrange for free ESL tutoring? 

  For information about free tutoring and free workshops, please visit the Student Success Center. 

• Where is the ESL Department located on the De Anza campus? 

  Most ESL classrooms are located in the L Quad. For help locating a classroom, you can visit the Language Arts Division Office located in the L1 Building. For more detailed information, please see the online campus map. 

• Where can I purchase textbooks? 

  You can purchase books at the De Anza College Bookstore.  

• Where is the ESL Computer Lab? 

  The ESL Computer Lab is in the Advanced Technology Building, in room AT 305. You can also find computers with ESL software in the Listening and Speaking Center.

• Can I get help from my instructor outside regular class time?

  Yes! All instructors hold office hours to assist their students. Please contact your instructor for information about the location and times for their office hours.  

• Where can I get help if I have a disability? 

  You'll find all kinds of assistance through the college Disability Support Programs and Services office.