Click to View Noncredit Courses
Important Note: If you want a class that is full, please add your name to the class waitlist. We may open another class if we have enough people on the list. Instructions: /depts/esl/documents/waitlist.pdf
Noncredit ESL Program
Noncredit ESL courses begin with the prefix "NCE" in the class schedule. Classes are offered in the day, evening, online, and on campus. Noncredit classes are free and repeatable. Students may need to purchase a textbook. Students may take levels 940-970 for either credit or noncredit. The instruction and materials are the same for both. Levels 910-930 are offered for noncredit only.
- Improve English skills to later enroll in degree or certificate programs
- Improve English skills to get a job or a better job.
- Communicate better in English in everyday life.
- Noncredit: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Noncredit ESL
We currently have seven noncredit levels 910 (low-beginning), 920 (beginning), 930
(high beginning), 940 (low intermediate), 950 (intermediate), 960 (high intermediate),
and 970 (advanced). The 910 and 920 courses provide instruction in all skill areas
during the class time (listening, speaking, reading, grammar, and writing.) Starting
at low intermediate, each level includes two separate courses: LS (listening/speaking)
and RW (reading/writing/grammar).
Class Listings
View a complete list of Noncredit ESL courses and certificates.
Search for Noncredit ESL classes in the current schedule under the title "NCE" in the Online Class Search: NCE
Course Placement
Noncredit ESL students interested in taking levels 940-970 need to place themselves using the ESL online placement tool before they register for classes. We recommend that students who feel they have low intermediate skills or higher complete the online placement. To enroll in beginning level courses (910-930), the online placement is not necessary. Students simply choose the class they feel is the best fit for their skill level. The course teacher can also recommend that a student move to a higher or lower level class if needed.
Fees and Financial Aid
Noncredit courses are free. There is no tuition cost. Students may need to purchase class textbooks, supplies, and any other materials they will need to succeed in class.
There is no financial aid available for noncredit textbooks or supplies.
Class Attendance
We take attendance in class every day. Students must plan to attend all of the class meetings for the semester. Coming to every class, participating in class activities, and practicing outside of class are all important for successful learning.
Grades and Transfer Credit
Grades in noncredit ESL courses are P (pass), SP (satisfactory progress), and NP (no pass). No academic credit is awarded. However, we do offer noncredit certificate programs. Students who finish all the required courses will receive a noncredit ESL certificate from Mission College.
Bookstore
The College Bookstore is located on the first floor of the Campus Center building. You can purchase all the books and materials you need for class here, as well as snacks and drinks. Hours for the bookstore are located on their website.
Parking on Campus
Students need to get a parking permit in order to park in any campus parking lot. You can order a semester-long parking permit online. You can also get one in person at the Admissions & Records window in the Student Engagement Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do the classes start and end?
A: We follow the regular Mission College calendar.
Q: What documents are required?
A: No documents are required other than information needed to complete the Mission College Noncredit Application
Q: Do I need to attend the college orientation?
A: No. It is not required for ESL students.
Q: I can't attend every class because of my job. Is that OK?
A: Students need to plan to attend every class meeting. If you need to be absent on some days, please inform the teacher. However, if you need to be absent regularly, we suggest you find a different class time that will work better with your schedule.
Q. I want to take a class at a different level then my placement. Is that OK?
A: Once you complete the online placement, you may enroll in any noncredit class you want to take.
Help with Homework
The Tutoring Center is located on the first floor of the Student Engagement Center, in room 154 and online in Canvas. Students may get help from trained peer tutors during day and evening hours. The tutoring center offers online tutoring.