General Information Questions [return]

1. What is the name of our school?

City College of San Francisco Downtown Campus

2. How many campuses are there?

There are 8 main campuses where you can take free ESL Classes:
Alemany, Chinatown/North Beach, Downtown, Evans, John Adams, Mission, Ocean, and Southeast.

3. How many levels of ESL are there?

There are 10 levels:

• Literacy
• Levels 1, 2, 3, 4 = Beginning
• Levels 5, 6, 7, 8 = Intermediate
• Level 9 = Advanced

Sometimes a class is one level. Sometimes a class includes two or more levels.

4. When can I take ESL classes?

Classes are offered at different times: Mornings / Afternoons / Evenings. Some sites have Saturday & Sunday classes.

5. How long is each class?

Most classes are 2 hours long. Some are 1 hour. Most classes are one semester (18 weeks). Fall Semester = August to December, Spring Semester = January to May, Summer Session = June

6. Can I take more than one class?

Yes, you can.

7. How much do the classes cost?

They are free.

8. Why do I need a book?

A book helps you understand the lesson, participate in the activities, review and study at home, and learn faster.

9. What other free ESL classes can I take?

• Citizenship
• Pronunciation, Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking
• Computers

10. Can I take a high school program?

Yes. You can get information about this program at the John Adams campus.

11. Can I take a class that prepares me for a job?

Yes. CCSF has many Vocational Programs to help you get a job:

• Clerical/Office Training
• Biotechnology
• Childcare/Child Development
• Custodial/Janitorial
• Construction
• Restaurant/Food Service/Hospitality
  

Student Services Questions [return]

1. What is A and E?

Admissions and Enrollment is where you start. You can:

• get an application
• get dates and times of the placement test
• enroll in a class
• add a class or change your schedule
• get general CCSF information

2. What is Counseling?

The counseling office:

• assist in placing students at ESL levels
• helps students plan your education and vocational goals
• refers students to community services
• refers students for disability assessment
• orients students to CCSF

3. What is DSPS?

Disabled Student Programs and Services

• tests to determine disabilities
• provides classes for skill development
• assists in arranging academic adjustments or accommodations to maximize disabled students' academic potential

4. Are there baby sitting services?

No

5. Can I get a student ID?

Yes. After you enroll, CCSF will mail your ID to your address. If you move, please fill out the Change of Address form in the A & E office. Keep your card with you at all times to show you are a student

6. Is there parking?

Some campuses have free parking.

Personal Questions [return]

1. Can I bring my child to school with me?

No. Children are not allowed at the school.

2. Can I attend school if I cannot come every day?

Yes, but please tell your teacher.

3. Can I come to school late or leave early because of work or childcare?

Yes, but please tell your teacher.

4. Can I come back to school after a long absence?

Yes. You are welcome to return to school anytime if there is space available in the classroom.

5. What level am I?

The assessment office (A & E) gives you a test when you register and places you in the correct level.

Changing Classes / Promotion Questions [return]

1. How long does it take to move from one ESL level to the next level?

It is different with each student. Sometimes you are ready to move to the next level in one semester. Sometimes it takes longer. You can stay in the same level until you are ready for the next level.

2. Can I change levels in the middle of a semester?

Yes. Talk to your teacher.

3. Can I add a class or change the time of my class?

Yes, you can. Talk to your teacher or go to the A & E office at your campus.

4. How long does it take to complete all 9 levels?

It depends on the individual student

5. What can I do after ESL?

• Take a CCSF credit class.
• Enroll in a CCSF job training program
• Take GED preparation classes or transitional studies (TRST) classes.
• Take other CCSF classes.

6. Can I take credit ESL classes?

Yes, you will be more successful if you finish non-credit level 6 before enrolling in credit classes.

Technology Questions [return]

1. Can I learn to use a computer?

Yes. Most campuses have ESL computer classes.

2. Do I need to know how to type?

No, but you can take a keyboarding class to improve your computer skills.