Free English classes for adults (ESL)
Many places offer free or cheap ESL (English as a Second Language) classes, often paid for by federal adult education money.
Public libraries: conversation groups and classes. Ask at the front desk.
Adult education centers run by school districts or community colleges.
Community organizations, churches, mosques and temples.
Online: some libraries give free access to language apps with your library card.
Steps:
Search "[your city] adult ESL classes" or ask your library.
Many programs give a short placement test to find your level.
Choose a time that fits: mornings, evenings and weekends are common.
Many programs offer childcare or family literacy classes, so parents and children learn together.
Community colleges are public two-year colleges. They are much cheaper than universities and accept almost everyone with a high school diploma or equivalent.
Associate degrees (two years) and short certificates for jobs like medical assistant, welding, IT support or bookkeeping.
Many credits transfer to a four-year university.
Non-credit classes in English, computers and hobbies.
In-state tuition depends on where you live and your status. This differs by state; see In your state below.
The GED: high school equivalency
If you did not finish high school, or your foreign diploma is hard to prove, you can earn a high school equivalency credential. The most common is the GED: four tests in math, language arts, science and social studies. Some states use other tests, such as HiSET.
Open ged.com and create an account.
Take the free practice tests.
Prepare in free classes at an adult education center.
Book the tests at a center or online. Prices and age rules depend on your state.
F-2 spouses and children: adults may study only part time at an SEVP-approved school, or take hobby or recreational classes. Full-time degree study needs a change to F-1. F-2 children may attend public school from kindergarten to grade 12.
H-4, L-2, J-2: you may study full or part time.
Visitors (B-2, ESTA): only short classes for fun, not for credit or a degree.
F-1 students must study at the school on their I-20.
Paying for an expensive private English school when free classes exist nearby.
An F-2 spouse enrolling full time in a degree program. It breaks F-2 rules.