One app for all your study abroad needs
Are you a non-native English speaker and are looking for ESL courses in USA as an international student? Well, you have come to the right place. Coming to the US and learning English as a Second Language (ESL) will not only help you upgrade your skills but also help you experience the new culture in a much better way. USA comes with unlimited ESL course options at Arizona State University, James Madison University, University of Illinois. These courses are for study in USA students and working professionals in USA.
As we continue reading this blog, you will explore several ESL courses in the USA that you can opt for as an International student, the cost of the program, types and much more.
Why Study ESL Courses in USA?
There are many reasons why you should pursue ESL courses in USA which can also be a great choice for non-native English speakers. Following are the reasons why you should pursue ESL courses from top universities in US:
- Firstly, the US is known to have some of the prestigious universities which offer students top ESL programs and resources. Moreover, these programs are taught by experienced teachers and professors who are highly qualified in teaching English as a second language.
- Secondly, the United States is an English-speaking nation, students studying here have the chance to become fully immersed in the language and practise their abilities in authentic contexts. Students who need to strengthen their communication abilities for academic or professional reasons may find this to be extremely helpful.
- Thirdly, taking ESL classes in the US gives one a firsthand look at American society. They get to engage with native English speakers and learn about American values, traditions, and customs. This can be an excellent method to learn the language and culture more thoroughly and to build useful cross-cultural communication abilities.
Additionally, pursuing ESL courses in the US will provide students with a competitive edge in the global job market. Not only this, having fluency in English is considered to be a valued skill but having an ESL qualification from a US institution can demonstrate a high level of proficiency and dedication to language learning.
Also Read: What is the Full Form of ESL?
7+ Top Universities to Study ESL Courses in the USA: Fees and Course Duration
There are several universities and colleges in the USA from where one can study ESL courses which allows one to reap lifelong benefits such as independence, self-reliance, unique opportunity to explore a new culture and so on. Let us now look at the following universities where one can pursue ESL courses in the US.
| University Name | QS World Ranking 2025 | ESL Course Duration | ESL Course Fees |
| Arizona State University | #200 | 5 weeks | Tuition Fees: USD 2,950 Online Fees: USD 2,800 |
| James Madison University | #116 | 4 year | USD 2,500 |
| University of Illinois | #=69 | The duration of ESL courses at the University of Illinois varies depending on the course. | USD 258 |
| University of Maryland | #218 | 1 year | USD 6,819 |
| Berkeley Global | #12 | 7-week | USD 550 per unit |
| University of North Carolina Wilmington | #196 | 5 weeks, 8 weeks and 16-week session | USD 2,600 |
| Peninsula College | NA | 3 Months | USD 25 per quarter, but financial aid is available. |
| Edmonds College | NA | 5 weeks | USD 25 per quarter |
Keep in mind that the above-mentioned course fee can vary and it is advised that you must visit the official website.
Also Read: Top Universities in USA
How Much Do ESL Courses in USA Cost?
Let us look at the type of ESL courses taught in the US along with the cost of the program which one can expect.
Individual ESL Lessons and Private Lessons
Taking private ESL lessons usually costs around USD 20 to USD 80 per hour. Since English is a second language, it caters to individuals seeking to improve their English skills, especially if it’s not their first language. The cost of the ESL classes depends on the teacher’s qualifications and experience.
Couples’ ESL Lessons
If you are interested in these types of ESL lessons, then you must expect to pay around USD 40 to USD 120 per hour. Friends or couples thinking of improving their English in a foreign land must look at this option. Since the class will be small, students will get the teachers’ undivided attention. Ultimately, these lessons will provide the students with a shared learning experience and often come with discounts compared to individual rates.
ESL Packages
In this package, students can expect to splurge money around USD 200 to USD 800 or more for a package of 10 to 20 lessons. This is one of the most common packages taught in English schools at a discounted rate.
College ESL Classes
Students can expect to pay around USD 200 to USD 600 per credit hour for ESL courses at a college or university. These classes will ensure to be a part of multiple English classes and multiple hours per week. Many universities and colleges offer ESL classes as part of their curriculum. The tuition fees for these classes widely vary depending on the institution and whether you’re an international or national student.
Intensive University ESL Program
Starting at around USD 100 and going up to USD 300, these programs are designed to accelerate native language learning. This program can last for weeks or even months which include tuition, materials, and sometimes accommodation.
Community ESL Courses
This type of ESL course is often offered at community centres or adult education centres and is often taken up by the residents. Not to worry, this course is taught by highly qualified English teachers, many of whom are native speakers. The cost of this type of ESL course can usually vary from USD 100 to USD 300 for a semester or term.
Online ESL Classes
These classes are similar to online classes and come in various price ranges. There are several platforms out there which offer free courses while others can charge around USD 10 to USD 50 per hour.
Remote Private ESL Courses
Finally, this type of class is one of the best options which one can opt for in the comfort of their house. These courses cost from USD 20 to USD 80 per hour, which is similar to the cost of private ESL instruction given in person.
Also Read: Scholarships to Study in USA for Indian Students
Free English Courses in USA for International Students
Who doesn’t wish to reap the benefits of something that too at free of cost? Following is the list of English courses which students can study free of cost in USA.
| English 1 Plus | Practice English and Reading |
| Access America | Skills for the Nursing Assistant |
| USA Learns Citizenship | 1st English Course |
Also Read: Most Popular Courses in USA for International Students
How to find the right ESL program in the US?
It can be challenging to choose the best ESL program in the US, but there are a few important things to think about:
- Goals of the Student: Before you begin your journey of studying ESL courses, it is important to understand your goal and what you want to achieve in the long run. You must also see how the ESL course will help you in your academic or professional life.
- Course Type: There are various types of ESL courses which the student can choose from depending on their situation and budget. One of the best ways is by choosing the best program that fits your schedule and learning style.
- Location: Another important factor is to keep your location in mind as this can impact your overall experience. See if you prefer to study in a city or town and whether you would like to study in a specific region of the US.
- Length of the Program: Choose an ESL program which suits your schedule as they can vary in length and could go on for weeks or months. This will help you achieve your goals in the desired time frame.
- Accreditation: Most importantly, make sure the ESL course you choose is accredited by a recognised organisation, such as the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA).
- Cost of the Program: To end with it, keep in mind that each ESL program varies in cost, so make sure you have a proper budget when making your decision.
Check out more blogs on ESL here:
FAQs
ESL courses are designed to help non-native English speakers improve their language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Benefits include immersion in an English-speaking environment, access to world-class education, and opportunities to experience American culture.
Different types include intensive language programs, academic English courses, business English courses, and test preparation courses.
Living expenses vary by location but typically include costs for housing, food, transportation, and textbooks.
ESL covers a broad spectrum of learners, from adults to elementary school-aged foreign students. Both domestically and abroad, there is a growing need for English teachers.
We hope this blog on ‘ESL Courses in USA’ was informative and helped you navigate study in USA options. For more information on study abroad opportunities, follow Leverage Edu now!!
45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today.