The English Language Studies Department offers a Certificate in English as a Second Language (ESL) for adult speakers of other languages who seek to improve their communicative and academic English skills, such as students planning to attend a college or university in the United States, professionals pursuing careers in English-speaking environments, and anyone wishing to communicate better with English speakers. The classes provide intensive instruction in grammar, conversation and listening, and reading and writing. Students who choose not to enroll in the full-time certificate program can take individual courses. All students can expect to emerge from New School ESL courses with improved fluency and independent learning skills.

- Gabriel Diaz Maggioli, Chair
- Caitlin Morgan, Director

Course Offerings

We offer courses at levels ranging from low intermediate (Level 3) to advanced (Level 6). We currently do not offer instruction to true beginners. All prospective students must take a short placement test before they register for courses. Each level takes a full term to complete: 12 weeks in the fall and spring and 10 weeks in the summer. Although two sessions are offered each term, only students who do not hold an I-20 from The New School can enter in the second session.

ESL Class Schedule

Study Options in ESL

Certificate in English as a Second Language
The New School has a unique certificate program for intensive study of English as a second language. Students consult with an English Language Studies advisor to build a full-time personal curriculum (18 hours per week) based on a selection of courses at the appropriate level. Grades of AP (Approved) or NA (Not Approved) are assigned for each course. The certificate is awarded for successful completion of a minimum of 100 hours of ESL coursework. All international students who have a student visa to study English at The New School must enroll in the certificate program.

Tuition is charged per course, and the tuition for each course is stated in the course description. Certificate students also pay a $80 university services fee each term. For more information, see Tuition and Fees.

Apply to the Certificate Program in English as a Second Language (PDF).

Individual Courses
All courses can be taken separately or in combination, according to personal preference. Exception: International students studying at The New School under a student visa are required to enroll in the certificate program.

Tuition is charged per course, and the tuition for each course is stated in the course description. Noncredit students also pay a small registration fee each term.

You must take a placement test and receive permission from an English Language Studies advisor before you can register. Call 212.229.5372 or email elsc@newschool.edu to schedule a placement test in our office at 68 Fifth Avenue. After completing the one-hour test, you can meet with an advisor to determine your level and plan your course of study. There is no fee for the exam or advisement.

When your courses have been approved by the English Language Studies advisor, you can register. The Registration Office is located at 72 Fifth Avenue on the lower level. You can pay for courses by credit card, check, cash, or money order. No further steps are required for admission.

Faculty

The members of our English language faculty are all highly trained and certified professionals. Many are published in the field of language education. Some are credited with developing innovative teaching methods and materials. View a list of our faculty members, with links to brief biographical descriptions.