Why Take Online Classes?

Online ESL classes are tuition-free and give you the flexibility to learn from home or anywhere with an internet connection. 

Most online classes include live Zoom sessions, where you can meet your teacher and classmates during scheduled class time. Some classes do not have Zoom sessions, but they provide weekly modules, lessons, and announcements in Canvas to help you make steady progress.

Online classes allow you to study English while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.

What Online Classes Do We Offer?

Student sitting in front of a laptop

Integrated Skills Classes

You practice reading, writing, listening, and speaking at the level that matches your English skills.

  • Beginning Low (Levels 1-2): ESLN 3100, 3120, 3200
  • Beginning High (Levels 3-4): ESLN 3300, 3340, 3400
  • Intermediate Low (Levels 5-6): ESLN 3500, 3560, 3600
  • Intermediate High (Levels 7-8): ESLN 3700, 3780, 3800
  • Advanced Low (Level 9): ESLN 3900

Focus Skills Classes

These classes help you build specific language skills and reach personal or career goals: Listening and Speaking, Conversation, Workplace Communication, and Citizenship.

For current class offerings, view the ESL Class Schedule.

Certificate of Competency

When you complete and pass the required classes, you can earn a Certificate of Competency. You can add this credential to your resume for jobs or use it to continue your education.

  • Beginning Low, Levels 1-2
  • Beginning High, Levels 3-4
  • Intermediate Low, Levels 5-6
  • Intermediate High, Levels 7-8
  • Advanced, Level 9

How to Enroll

Don't have a CCSF Student ID yet?

  1. Complete the Noncredit Application Form
    Download and fill out the Noncredit Application Form (English / Spanish / Chinese).
  2. Email Your Application
    Send the completed form and a photo ID to nc_admit@ccsf.edu.
  3. Get your CCSF ID Number
    After your application is processed, you will receive your student ID number by email.

Already have a CCSF Student ID?

  1. Activate Your RAM ID
    Follow the steps in this Online Student Guide to activate your RAM ID student account. Your RAM ID lets you log in to Canvas, Zoom, and the Student Portal.
  2. Register for Classes
    Go to the ESL Class Schedule to find your ESL classes.
    Then register through the Student Portal using your RAM ID.
  3. Log in to Canvas and Zoom
    After you register, wait about 24 hours for your class to appear in Canvas. Then log in to Canvas to see your course details, teacher information, and class announcement.

How to Study Online

To help you get familiar with online learning, you will use Canvas and Zoom. 

In Canvas, you will

  • See all your classes on the Dashboard
  • Learn about your teacher and course on the Home page
  • Open weekly lessons, videos, discussions, and assignments in Modules
  • Read Announcements from your teacher.

Canvas works on mobile phones, tablets, and computers.

Canvas Modules on computer and mobile device

In Zoom, you will

  • Meet your teacher and classmates
  • Listen, speak, and practice English
  • Work in small groups in Breakout Rooms
  • Use Chat to ask questions or share ideas
  • Turn your Audio and Video on and off

Zoom is easy once you try it!

Zoom interface