This program offers classes in English to non-native speakers in the local community. People from a variety of backgrounds choose to study in our Community Program: Au Pairs, immigrants, L-2 visa holders, H-4 visa holders, permanent residents, and US citizens.
These classes are not for F-1, B-1/B-2 visa holders or ESTA students.
Each class has a short description but is unique from quarter to quarter. The classes are designed to provide instruction in a particular skill (grammar, speaking, vocabulary, test preparation, etc.) but students and teachers work together to shape the class to meet the needs, interests, and levels of the majority. These classes are cost-effective and meet three days week, with additional practice done online. The classes are one quarter in duration (i.e. about 12 weeks.)
The ELI Community class being offered in Fall 2026 is:
Pronunciation & Accent Reduction (5 CR)
Students learn and practice specific difficult sounds, proper mouth position, stress, intonation, and rhythm, and how to assess and improve their own pronunciation.
Course Outcomes
- Explain and say American English sounds and clusters.
- Explain and say minimal pairs.
- Explain and say sentence stress and intonation.
- Explain key differences between your first language and American English, and reduce these differences
- Evaluate and modify your accent.
This class meets Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10:30am to 11:20am.
Admission and Registration
Follow the next steps to apply and register for community classes:
- Apply to Bellevue College. Choose “Non-Award Seeking / Non-degree – Other.” *If you previously applied under “Transitional Studies” (ELA), please submit a new application using this option.
- Submit an ELI Interest Form.
We recommend you apply early to secure seats in the classes you are interested.
Tuition and fees/Payment Methods
The cost of each class is $680 for resident students. We determine your residency for tuition and fee purposes at the time you apply for admission. Non-resident students pay a higher tuition rate than resident students do. Learn more about Washington state residency. Students can pay online or in-person at the Student Financial Services office by cash, check, money order, VISA or Master credit card, or traveler’s check.
For more information, please email eliprograms@bellevuecollege.edu
Last Updated September 15, 2026