Credit ESL FAQs
- What is the difference between the noncredit and credit ESL classes?
- Do I have to take noncredit ESL classes before I take credit ESL classes?
- Can I take noncredit and credit ESL classes at the same time?
- Do I have to take a placement test before taking credit ESL classes?
- How many levels are in the credit ESL program?
- Do I need a high school diploma or GED in order to take credit ESL classes?
- How many units of credit do ESL classes have?
- How much is charged to enroll in credit ESL classes?
- Can I obtain financial aid to help pay for the credit ESL classes?
- Is a parking permit included in my enrollment/tuition fees?
- Are textbooks required for credit ESL classes?
- What is the schedule of classes for credit ESL?
- How many units or classes should I take?
- When are credit ESL classes offered?
- Where are credit ESL classes offered?
- Are credit ESL classes open enrollment like noncredit?
- When can I register for credit ESL classes?
- Can I audit a credit ESL class?
What is the difference between the noncredit and credit ESL classes?
| Noncredit ESL program | Credit ESL program |
| There are no fees charged to enroll in noncredit ESL classes. | Registration fees apply. Financial Aid and other programs are available to assist with fees (for those who qualify). |
| Books are loaned to students in class. | Students purchase their own books and materials. |
| Classes feature open enrollment | Registration deadlines apply. |
| Certificates of Competency are awarded (Beginning and Advanced) | Students earn college units of credit. |
| California residency requirements apply (there are some exceptions). |
Do I have to take noncredit ESL classes before I take credit ESL classes?
No. Please make an appointment with a noncredit or credit counselor to help you decide
which program is best for you and to create a student educational plan.
Noncredit Counseling
Call: 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3740
Visit: Building S on the Santa Maria campus
For more information: http://www.hancockcollege.edu/noncreditcounseling
Credit Counseling
Call: 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3293
Visit: Building A, room A105, on the Santa Maria campus
For more information: http://www.hancockcollege.edu/counseling/index.php
Can I take noncredit and credit ESL classes at the same time?
Yes, as long as the class times don’t conflict.
Do I have to take a placement test before taking credit ESL classes?
Yes. This assessment helps to advise new students as to which level of English classes
will best support their success.
Please contact the Testing Center for more information regarding testing dates and
times.
Call: 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3364
Visit: Building A, room A406, on the Santa Maria campus
For more information: http://www.hancockcollege.edu/testing/index.php
How many levels are in the credit ESL program?
There are four levels of reading and writing courses and three levels of grammar.
Do I need a high school diploma or GED in order to take credit ESL classes?
No, a high school diploma or GED is not required to enroll in credit ESL classes.
How many units of credit do ESL classes have?
Credit ESL classes usually have 3 or 4 units.
How much is charged to enroll in credit ESL classes?
See Fees page.
For residency requirements questions, please contact Admission and Records office.
Call: 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3248.
Visit: Building A, room A101, on the Santa Maria campus
For more information: http://www.hancockcollege.edu/admissions/residence.php
Can I obtain financial aid to help pay for the credit ESL classes?
Yes, if you qualify.
For eligibility, please contact the Financial Aid office.
Call: 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3200
Visit: Building A, room A101, on the Santa Maria campus
For more information: http://www.hancockcollege.edu/finaid/index.php
Is a parking permit included in my enrollment/tuition fees?
No. Obtain a parking permit through the myHancock portal. The cost is $20 per semester.
For more information, visit: http://www.hancockcollege.edu/police/parking.php
Are textbooks required for credit ESL classes?
Yes. Students who register for credit ESL classes will be responsible for buying,
renting, or borrowing text books.
For more information about book prices: http://www.hancockcollege.edu/asbg/bookstore.php
What is the schedule of classes for credit ESL?
It varies each semester.
Please visit the class search website for more information: https://banssb.hancockcollege.edu/ssbprod/pw_sigsched.p_search
How many units or classes should I take?
Each student is different. We suggest you meet with a counselor before registering
for your first semester of classes as a new student. Classes require not only class
time but also homework and lab time.
When are credit ESL classes offered?
Classes are offered in the morning, early afternoon, and evening.
Where are credit ESL classes offered?
Currently, classes are held at the AHC Santa Maria campus.
Are credit ESL classes open enrollment like noncredit?
No. Credit ESL classes do not have open enrollment.
For more information regarding specific registration deadlines, please visit Counseling, building A, room A105, on the Santa Maria campus or call 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3293.
When can I register for credit ESL classes?
Registration begins approximately one month before the first day of class. Usually,
registration deadlines are in August, January, and June.
Can I audit a credit ESL class?
No. Students must register. Auditing is not allowed