The ESL Program is full for Fall 2024.
The application period for Winter 2025 has passed. If you attended our Information Session and applied for Winter quarter, you will receive an email in 1-2 weeks with your next steps.
Bellevue College provides English language classes to students with a college or career goal. Students learn reading, writing, speaking, listening and technology skills to develop their communication abilities in preparation for college and work. Classes are hybrid with both in-person and virtual requirements.
- Immigrants, refugees, or U.S. Citizens over 18 years of age whose first language is not English.
- We do not serve tourists or people with Foreign Student Visas ( J-1, F-1, M-1, B-1 or B-2). International students should check the English Language Institute: ELI Website
Tuition is $25 per quarter for the English as a Second Language (ESL) program.
- Please pay online with card through the self-service portal on Ctclink. Instructions are online for making a payment.
- Or you can pay by phone 425-564-2309 with a card over the phone at your convenience. We are available Monday through Friday from 8:30a.m. to 4:00p.m.
Tuition Waivers
Help with payments is available with a: Quest card, unemployed, DSHS, SSI, WIC, HUD, Free or reduced lunch, or have a letter from a community organization. Please complete the tuition waiver form.
- Tuition waivers are required for each quarter you are enrolled.
- Tuition waivers require your ctcLink ID and should be completed in the first two weeks of the quarter.
- Tuition Waivers may take 1-2 weeks to process.
Workforce Education
If your income is currently limited or you are currently receiving Basic Food Assistance (SNAP/EBT) or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) from DSHS, or you are receiving unemployment insurance benefits (UI), the Bellevue College WorkForce Education office may be able to help you pay for tuition, textbooks, childcare or transportation costs. To qualify, you can Apply Online, or visit them for more information. They are located in the U Building, 2nd floor, in U 212.
View our class schedule online. Choose the Term and change the Academic Organization to ESL.
Our ESL classes can only be accessed with a permission code. This is given to you at the time of registration. Your permission code is a one time use and it works only for the class you have been assigned.
The ESL program offers day and evening courses. You choose the time and we choose the days, based on your level. View your schedule, start your class, and email your instructor on CANVAS once you are registered.
Our classes are hybrid. They take place on-campus and on Zoom every week.
How to Apply
Please note that Bellevue College cannot guarantee a seat in an ESL class. Registration is on a space available basis for new and returning students and depends on the level of the student after the placement test.
Step 1: Application Form
All new and returning students must complete the Basic & Transitional Studies Quick Admit Application.
Step 2: Placement Test
You will receive an invitation to sign up for a placement test appointment within a few weeks of completing Step 1.
Step 3: Enroll in Orientation
Once you finish your placement test, it will take approximately two weeks to process results. If there is space available in the level you need, we will register you in a one week orientation before the start of the quarter.
In orientation, students will activate their College NetID and ctcLink accounts, pay for tuition, and register for their ESL level class with help from their instructor.
Contact Us
Email us at esl@bellevuecollege.edu
Visit our offices in R130 Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
3000 Landerholm Circle SE
Bellevue, WA 98007
Important Dates and Deadlines
Information Sessions
Orientation (by invitation)
- December 16, 18, and 19 (all three days required)
Testing – CASAS Assessment
All English as a Second Language (ESL) students are required to complete the CASAS Assessment (test). Students will be directed to schedule the placement test after completing the Interest Form.
Taking a placement test does not guarantee a seat in the class. Registration is on a space available basis.
Website manager: Megumi DeMond
Last Updated November 1, 2024
