English as a Second Language (ESL)

Individuals with limited English knowledge may face many challenges, but the ESL program at Palo Alto College offers the opportunity to learn English and get ahead in your career.

Our free ESL classes are available to students aged 18 and older, helping them progress to their desired skill level. All incoming students will be assessed on their current knowledge of the English language and be placed in one of four levels—from introductory to advanced.

Each level includes four skills-focused areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Along with integrated grammar and vocabulary skills, the standards-based focus empowers students to build upon sequential background knowledge aligned with unique activities, self-assessments, reviews and tests for each unit being covered.

Important Dates

Fall Session 2026

September 8 – December 3

Mandatory Placement Testing

Fall 2026 semester classes are full.

Classes Begin

September 8, 2026

Classes End

December 3, 2026

Spring Session 2027

January – April 2027

Mandatory Placement Testing

Placement Testing: Before registering, you must complete a 25-minute placement exam in our office. To schedule your spring test, email pac-commprog@alamo.edu with your 1)full name, 2)phone number, and 3)email address. We’ll contact you in October to schedule your test.

Level 1 & 2: For students with little or no English experience. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00–9:00 p.m., January 26–April 27, 2026, on campus.

Level 3 & 4: For students with some English experience. Classes meet Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:00–9:00 p.m., January 25–April 26, 2026, on campus.

By enrolling in the course, you agree to attend all classes on the scheduled dates and times.

Classes Begin

January 2027

Classes End

April 2027

Contact Information:

Location:
Ozuna Library and Learning Center (OZU 136)

Phone:
210-486-3409

Email:
pac-commprog@alamo.edu

Hours of Operation

Monday-Thursday:
8 a.m.– Noon
and 1–5 p.m.