Immigrants arriving in the US often face a language barrier. The state offers free English language programs to make it easier for immigrants to adapt to the country.
Free English lessons are often offered by public schools, colleges, libraries and other institutions.
Often such courses are called ESL – English as a second language. English as a Second Foreign Language programs are designed for international students who want to improve their English or learn English from scratch.
ESL courses are offered by hundreds of institutions throughout the United States of America.
Sometimes these programs are called ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), they also correspond to ESL programs.
In addition to the main programs, you can also find specialized English test preparation programs: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and Test of Spoken English (TSE). You can also find a list of educational resources for immigrants on the U.S. Department of Education.
English courses in libraries
To find libraries that offer free English classes, you need to search the Internet for “Public libraries with free English classes near me”. Basically, these courses offer 3 types of classes: for beginners, for students of intermediate level of English proficiency and business English courses aimed at improving the language and filling it with the vocabulary necessary for work.
English courses in colleges
For admission, you need to pass a language test and, after receiving the results, enroll in a college course that will correspond to your level. There are classes for different levels, including for those who are not very familiar with English and for advanced ones. Usually in colleges you can choose a convenient time for classes, morning, afternoon and evening classes are offered.
Non-Profit and Profit Organizations Offer Free English Courses for Immigrants
Community centers for immigrants and refugees, charitable organizations, church communities often conduct English lessons for foreigners. Both volunteers and professional teachers can act as teachers. Sometimes such organizations work with government agencies to provide jobs for immigrants after the training.