English Language Learners

Iowa Western Community College offers classes to help students develop stronger listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English. By improving English Language skills, students improve their chances of success in future education and employment.

To enroll in our ELL program and to start developing your English skills, review our orientation schedule (Link to orientation page), select the orientation date that works best for you, and call us at 712-325-3266 to sign-up. We look forward to helping you to reach your goals

Location

Iowa Western Community College
Kinney Hall, Second Floor
2700 College Road
Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Orientation Schedule

Day Orientation

October 27, 2023
November 3, 2023
January 5, 2024
January 12, 2024
March 1, 2024
March 8, 2024
April 26, 2024
May 3, 2024

Evening Orientation

October 26, 2023
November 2, 2023
January 4, 2024
January 11, 2024
February 29, 2024
March 7, 2024
April 25, 2024
May 2, 2024

Class Schedule

Classes take place Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. or Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:00-8:30 p.m.

September 11 – October 26, 2023
November 6 – December 14
January 16, 2024 – February 29, 2024
March 11 – April 25
May 6 – June 13

FAQ

How do I qualify for the ELL program?

Any speaker of a language other than English, who is at leave 18 years old and desires to improve their English may qualify for classes. This is determined by the Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems (CASAS) Reading and Listening assessments taken during orientation.

Students will need to provide a valid photo ID and current email.

What equipment is needed in order to participate in English Language Classes?

You will need a notebook, pen or pencil, and a great attitude. It is helpful for the morning classes and required for evening classes to also log 2 hours of online study hours each week.

Where do I study online?

In order to access our online English program, Burlington English, you will need the following:

*Computer/tablet/smart phone

*Internet Access/Wifi/or Hotspot

**If you do not have access to a working computer, you have the opportunity to qualify to check out a laptop and other accessories through our GEER Grant program.**

How much does the ELL program cost?

Students are required to pay a $25 registration fee at orientation. There are no additional fees for ELL classes.

What is expected and required?

Students are required to complete a minimum of 8 hours of study time each week, including class time, to maintain active status. If students do NOT show sufficient time in class and/or supplemental activity on Burlington English for a month, their Burlington English account will be deactivated.

Can I register for classes online?

No. Students must attend a 3 hour, in-person ELL orientation and complete the CASAS Reading and Listening assessments. Orientation can be scheduled by calling 712-325-3266.