Learn ESL – FREE – at De Anza!
If English isn't your first language, De Anza's English as a Second Language (ESL) program can help you achieve your goals!
De Anza is offering TUITION-FREE noncredit courses for students who are learning English as a second language and want to improve their ability to understand, speak, read and write in English.
- These classes can help you communicate better at home, at work and in the community.
- Noncredit courses do not count toward a college degree or academic certificate, but they can be a first step to entering and succeeding in college!
- A noncredit course can also satisfy requirements for taking a lower-level course so you can advance to a higher level of ESL.
Same Policies and Requirements
All requirements and policies for noncredit classes are exactly the same as credit classes – including course content, assignments, grading and attendance.
Noncredit students are expected to come to every class, study and do homework just like credit students.
See below for a complete list of noncredit ESL classes at De Anza.
- Check the Noncredit ESL Course Sequence chart to see the best order for taking classes in sequence
- Check the class schedule to see which courses are offered in a particular quarter.
- We also offer noncredit certificates!
Earn a Noncredit Certificate
English as a Second Language: Noncredit
American English Pronunciation - Certificate of CompetencyDetails for Certificate of Competency - American English Pronunciation
Students will receive the Certificate of Completion in American English Pronunciation by completing two pronunciation courses. The courses cover the study and practice of American English pronunciation features in order to speak intelligibly and accurately, understand spoken American English, and prepare students for college-level English as a Second Language.
English as a Second Language Advanced Level - Certificate of CompetencyDetails for Certificate of Competency - English as a Second Language Advanced Level
The Certificate of Competency in English as a Second Language Advanced Level sequence prepares students for college-level study of English as a Second Language. The prerequisite is the completion of ESL 461 and ESL 465 or placement by the ESL Guided Self-Placement assessment.
English as a Second Language High Intermediate Level - Certificate of CompetencyNEWDetails for Certificate of Competency - English as a Second Language High Intermediate Level
The Certificate of Competency in English as a Second Language High Intermediate Level sequence prepares students for the high-intermediate level of English as a Second Language. The prerequisite is the demonstrated English language skill.
English as a Second Language Intermediate Level - Certificate of CompetencyDetails for Certificate of Competency - English as a Second Language Intermediate Level
The Certificate of Competency in English as a Second Language Intermediate Level sequence prepares students for the advanced level of English as a Second Language. The prerequisite is the placement on the ESL Guided Self-Placement assessment.
English as a Second Language Low Advanced Level - Certificate of CompetencyNEWDetails for Certificate of Competency - English as a Second Language Low Advanced Level
The Certificate of Competency in English as a Second Language Low Advanced Level sequence prepares students for the low-advanced level of English as a Second Language. The prerequisite is the demonstrated English language skill.
English Writing, Grammar and Proofreading - Certificate of CompetencyDetails for Certificate of Competency - English Writing, Grammar and Proofreading
Students will receive the advanced-level of Certificate of Competency in English Writing, Grammar and Proofreading by completing one advanced-level writing course and one grammar and proofreading course. The writing course provides the study and practice of advanced-level composition and writing in order to write critically thought-out, complex essays in English. The grammar and proofreading course provides students with the grammar and editing skills needed to make their writing clear and effective. Both courses prepare students for college-level English as a Second Language and English and enable them to pursue personal, academic and/or professional goals.
In addition to the programs listed above, you may be able to apply courses in this department toward General Education requirements.
HOW TO REGISTER FOR NONCREDIT CLASSES
Why Study ESL at De Anza?
- Experienced instructors with advanced degrees
- Extensive support – tutoring, group practice and language software
- Pathway to credit courses and certificate, degree or transfer
Choose From These Noncredit Courses
- Visit the ESL Courses webpage for detailed course descriptions
- Check the Noncredit ESL Course Sequence chart to see the best order for taking classes in sequence
- Check the Class Schedule to see which courses are offered during a particular quarter
- Learn more about noncredit classes by visiting the Noncredit Classes webpage
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ESL 400: High Beginning English as a Second Language
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ESL 434: Low Intermediate – Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing and Grammar
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ESL 444: Intermediate – Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing and Grammar
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ESL 451: High Intermediate – Listening and Speaking
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ESL 455: High Intermediate – Reading, Writing and Grammar
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ESL 460A: American English Pronunciation 1
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ESL 460B: American English Pronunciation 2
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ESL 461: Low Advanced – Listening and Speaking
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ESL 465: Low Advanced – Reading, Writing and Grammar
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ESL 472: Advanced – Reading and Vocabulary
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ESL 473: Advanced – Introduction to the Essay
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ESL 474: Advanced Grammar and Proofreading for Writers