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Disclaimer
English as a Second Language (ESL)

Courses & Certificates

The ESL department offers courses in writing/grammar, reading/vocabulary, and listening/speaking at the low-intermediate to high-‍advanced levels. Students can also strengthen their language skills in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation through supplemental courses. If you are interested in taking classes at College of San Mateo, please review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page about enrollment.

Check out the information below to learn about current course offerings and special programs. Students can also reference WebSchedule for the most up-to-date information about courses in ESL and across the College.

To find more information about each course in the ESL program, students can click on the course names in the ESL Course Sequence below. Please remember that some courses are not offered every semester.

Click here for a list of courses across the District

ESL Course Sequence

Program Skill Levels Grammar & Writing Listening & Speaking Reading & Vocabulary
Level 5
High‑Advanced		 ESL 400
(Transfer)		 ESL 401
(Transfer)
 
Level 4
Low‑Advanced		 ESL 828 ESL 848 ESL 858
 
Level 3
High‑Intermediate		 ESL 827 ESL 847 ESL 857
 
Level 2
Low‑Intermediate		 ESL 826 ESL 846 ESL 856
 
Level 1
Beginning*		 ESL 825 ESL 845 ESL 855
* Level 1 classes not offered every semester, check Cañada College for more Level 1 options

ESL Supplemental  Courses

Program Skill Levels Grammar & Writing Listening & Speaking Reading & Vocabulary
Level 3+
High‑Intermediate+		 Grammar Review
ESL 898		 Pronunciation
ESL 888
ESL 887		  

ESL Lab-Only Courses

Program Skill Levels Grammar & Writing Listening & Speaking Reading & Vocabulary
Advanced ESL 908 ESL 865 ESL 899
Intermediate ESL 907 ESL 849 ESL 895

Certificates

The ESL Program at College of San Mateo offers two types of certificates for completing courses in the program:
 
Proficiency in English for Academic and Career Success (PEACS) Certificate of Achievement
The Proficiency in English for Academic and Career Success (PEACS) certificate of achievement formally recognizes a student's ability to be successful in transfer-level coursework in English and demonstrates the attainment of the English language, communication, academic skills and knowledge necessary for continued success in college-level courses and the labor market.
 
Certificates of achievement are awarded in certain occupational fields upon successful completion of a specific course of study in a state-approved program with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Students must complete all courses used to satisfy both core and elective requirements with a grade of "C" or better (or Pass). Certificates of Achievement are posted to the student's transcript. 
 
Academic English Certificates of Specialization (Level 2, Level 3, Level 4)
Strong English-language skills are required for success in the American higher education system, preparing students to succeed in transfer-level coursework and degree/certificate programs. Outside of higher education, the ability to communicate effectively in English is a requirement for many jobs and stronger English skills can lead to promotions and more diverse employment options. These certificates of specialization signal acquisition of intermediate and low-advanced English skills.
 
Certificates of specialization are awarded in specific, locally approved occupational programs upon successful completion of all required coursework with a minimum 2.0 GPA. Students must complete all courses used to satisfy both core and elective requirements with a grade of “C” or better (or Pass). Certificates of Specialization are not recorded on official student transcripts. Certificates of specialization are not Financial Aid eligible programs of study.
 

Lab-Only Course FAQs

  • An independent study, self-paced class designed to meet individual student needs
  • Assignments are tailored to each student's level and interests.
  • Courses are for 0.5 to 1.0 unit and use Pass/No Pass grading.
  • Students may complete work in the ESL Center or Online.
  • These are open entry/exit courses, which means students may enroll after the semester begins and up until the end of Week 10. Students do not need an add code for these courses.

Please check WebSchedule to see what courses are offered during the semester you plan to attend.

  • There are no scheduled meeting times for these classes.
  • Students create their own schedule and work at their own pace, but are required to meet with an instructor at regular intervals throughout the semester.
  • If you are enrolled in a lab-only course and the semester has already started, please email the ESL Center immediately at csmeslcenter@smccd.edu.
During the semester, students are expected to complete a minimum of 24 hours of assignments and appointments for each 0.5 unit they’re enrolled in.
No, the ESL Center will provide students with all the necessary materials.
  • All levels of ESL students, including those who have completed the ESL course sequence but who need additional guidance and practice on one or two skills
  • Students who are looking for a lower cost option
  • Students who need a flexible schedule
Flex Day (No Classes)
October 7, 2026
Veterans Holiday Weekend
November 7-9, 2026
Thanksgiving Weekend
November 26-29, 2026