English Language Program

The World Meets Here

Six international students smiling, making hand gestures, and holding books.

Contact English Language Program

ELP Coordinator

CeAnn Chandel Myers
[email protected]

For inquiries regarding F-1 visa students, please visit
International Education.

Welcome, English language learners!

The English Language Program (ELP), within the English Department, offers classes to students whose primary language is not English.

The classes offered in the program are prefixed ESL (English as a Second Language). Most of the classes are 16 weeks long, and they are distributed along four English language levels (as shown in the table below).

If the class you want is full, don’t worry—we’ll add you to our Wait List so you’re first in line when a seat opens.

Email [email protected]

Selecting Appropriate ESL Level

If you are new to the college or to ESL classes, and you need assistance selecting the appropriate ESL level, please 


1. Take the CELSA test (or use another approved test) to see what level will be the best for you. The test is free and you don’t need an appointment. 

For more information, please go to the MCC Testing Center’s website. 

2. Once you have your score, please refer to the MCCCD Placement Coach to see which level you can enroll in. 

ESL Program of Study
Level 1: Beginning

ESL 101: Reading & Writing (6 credits)

In addition to these:

Learn how to

  • use new vocabulary
  • use basic grammar
  • read simple texts
  • write short paragraphs
Level 2: Low Intermediate

ESL 102: Reading & Writing (6 credits)

In addition to these:

Learn how to

  • talk with friends and instructors
  • create a class project
  • give a short presentation
  • read and write paragraphs
Level 3: High Intermediate

ESL 201: Reading & Writing (6 credits)

In addition to these:

Learn how to

  • talk about academic and professional topics
  • do basic research
  • read and write multi-paragraph papers
  • create and present a project
Level 4: Advanced

ESL 202: Reading & Writing (6 credits)

In addition to these:

Learn how to

  • discuss academic and professional topics
  • discuss social and cultural issues in the USA and other countries
  • read and write academic papers
  • use technology and study skills to be ready for other classes and the workplace

Studying English at MCC

If you are an international student or an ESL student, please contact International Education. Once admitted to college, students are advised about appropriate classes and program options.

Conversation Circles

  • Conversation Circles: Tuesdays 12:00-1:00 pm in AS 191
  • Fun and free conversation practice. This is open to everyone and is a great way to meet friends and learn about American culture.
  • Bring your lunch – come eat and chat with us!

English Language Certificate

ESL students can now get a Certificate of Completion in English Language Skills! It can be used to show your English proficiency for your job, at another school, or in another country. 

This Certificate will be on your transcript and is an official credential. You can use your ESL classes as part of the Certificate and it is eligible for financial aid. For more information, please see the list of required courses.

To sign up for the Certificate, please contact International Education at [email protected].  

English Language Program Mission Statement

The mission of the English Language Program (ELP) at Mesa Community College is to provide students with high-quality language instruction and cultural skills necessary to their success in their academic, professional, civic, and personal lives. To achieve this mission, the ELP collaborates with units across the college to offer programs and services that foster learning and promote intercultural communication.

Mesa Community College Mission Statement

MCC excels in teaching, learning, and empowering individuals to succeed in our local and global community. We serve as a resource for college and career readiness, transfer education, workforce development, and life-long learning.

For Future Students

  • Nationally Accredited
  • Affordable
  • An experienced, professional faculty and staff. All faculty have at least a Master's and/or doctorate in Foreign and Second Language education.
  • Multiple levels of English instruction
  • 15 - 18 classroom hours per week in our Intensive English Program (depending on level of placement)
  • Intensive classes in speaking/listening, writing/grammar, reading
  • Computer-assisted instruction and Internet access
  • Visit a regularly scheduled college class

For Current Students