Frequently Asked Questions

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program and Services at Community College of Philadelphia is designed to meet the needs of students whose native language is not English. The College offers a variety of ESL courses and support services to help students succeed academically and participate in the English-speaking communities.

What ESL Courses are Offered at Community College of Philadelphia?
There are three levels of listening/speaking and four levels of integrated reading/writing courses. Experienced English Department faculty teach all of the ESL courses.

Listening/Speaking Courses
These courses help students learn skills ranging from conversation to complex communication tasks. Advanced students listen to college lectures, take notes and speak in formal and informal situations. A language lab also allows you to work independently to improve your pronunciation and listening skills.

Reading/Writing Courses
The reading and writing courses are taught as linked courses. You can develop better vocabulary, improve reading skills and understand grammar. You will read college-level textbooks, write academic compositions and write for everyday purposes.

What College Courses Can You Take While You are Enrolled in ESL Courses?
While working on English skills, you can take mathematics courses and other content courses based on your academic needs and English proficiency. You may also take "Bridge Courses" to meet degree requirements. "Bridge Courses" are college credit courses especially reserved for ESL students. Classes are smaller, and teachers understand your needs. These courses help you begin exploring academic interests in a caring environment with teachers and classmates from similar backgrounds. Placement into the "Bridge Courses" depends on your level of English proficiency.

What Other Services Does the College Offer?
Community College of Philadelphia offers you a wide range of academic support services to assist you in your studies.

Orientation
At the beginning of the semester, an orientation program for new students familiarizes you with the College environment. A midsemester orientation helps you further understand matters concerning academic studies and transfer issues.

Counseling
Counselors work with you individually or in groups to help you in course selection, transfer and career planning.

Academic Advising
Academic advisors help you select courses and major area of studies.

Learning Labs
There are learning labs where you will attend the lab classes attached to speaking, reading/writing courses and get free help from specialists and peer tutors in any subjects you take.

How Do You Enroll at Community College of Philadelphia?
1. Fill out an Application Form:
You may apply online at www.ccp.edu, get an application form from the Welcome Center, M1-17, or the ESL Office, W1-1. You can also call 215-751-8230 or 215-751-8829 to have an application sent to you.

2. Take the Placement Test:
All applicants will be scheduled to take a placement test prior to registration. There are four parts in the test: Math, English listening, reading and writing.

3. Register:
After the test, you will receive confirmation for an appointment in the mail to come in and meet with a counselor. The counselor will go over the test results, help you register and answer questions.

When Can You Begin Studies at the College?
The College offers courses in two semesters, fall and spring, and two summer sessions, Summer I and II. You can begin in the fall semester after Labor Day in September, or spring semester in the middle of January. Summer I begins in mid-May, and Summer II begins in early July. You should submit your application as early as possible.

When Do Classes Meet?
During the fall and the spring semesters, classes are offered during the day, in the evening and on Saturdays. During the two summer sessions, we have classes during the day and in the evening.

How Much Is Tuition?
For details on tuition and fees, please see the Tuition and Fees page.

Financial Aid
The College participates in these and other state and federal funded programs:

• Pell Grant
• SEOG Grant
• Student Work Study
• PHEAA Grant
• Stafford Loan
• VA Benefits

If you need financial aid, you must file an application each academic year. Since the application process for all of the above grants and loans takes time, please file the application as early as possible. Application forms are available at the Office of Financial Aid, Room BG-3, or at www.fafsa.ed.gov.