Welcome to Calhoun’s English as a Second Language (ESL) Program

Our student enrollment process has changed. We no longer accept online inquiries. If you are interested in taking ESL classes at Calhoun, please read the information below carefully.

Training and Requirements

Calhoun’s English as a Second Language program is operated through Alabama’s post-secondary institutions out of the Adult Education Department. Clients admitted to the program must be adult education eligible (16 years of age and separated from the K-12 system) and be willing to take the TABE CLAS-E for proper class placement.

Orientation and Enrollment Testing

Orientation and Testing is offered in Huntsville and Decatur at the ESL class sites.

ESL Orientation (ORI) calendar

Centralized testing locations:

How can I enroll in English as a Second Language Classes (ESL)?

To enroll in ESL classes, you must:

Attend one of our orientation and enrollment sessions.

• Orientation sessions are available on the Decatur and Huntsville campuses. We also have morning and evening orientations. Morning orientation sessions start at 08:30 AM. Evening sessions start at 04:30 PM. Please see the calendar for available sessions.
• During the session you will enroll and choose the time of day you want to attend class (morning class or evening class).
• The number of students at each orientation session is limited to 15. Enrollment is done on a first come first served basis.

What time do I need to arrive?

Arrive at our campus at least 15 minutes before the session starts. Remember that only the first 15 students will be allowed to attend the session and enroll.
We will not accept late arrivals.

What do I need to bring with me to the session?

You need to bring the following:

• The student’s passport
• A second photo ID (for example, a driver’s license)
• Proof of residency: a paper document showing the student’s name and address in Alabama. Examples of proof of residency are a utility bill, a bank statement, the lease on a house or apartment, a mortgage statement, a car insurance form, etc.

ESL Schedule

Flexible, accessible community class sites are offered both morning and night and are available in several locations in the Calhoun Adult Education’s service area.

What if I need more information or have questions?

Our offices are open Monday to Thursday from 08:30 AM to 05:00 PM.
You can also call this number: 256-890-4793 Monday to Thursday from 08:30 AM to 05:00 PM.