Adult Education and ESL
Free Adult Education and ESL classes are open to residents and individuals that live in Lake County or work full time in Lake County. You are not eligible to participate un Adult Education or ESL classes if:
Here B1, B2, F1, F2, J1 or J2 visas,
Short term visitors to the U.S.
Younger than 16 years old
In general, students must be at least 18 years old in order to enroll in Adult Education and ESL classes. However, 16 and 17 year old students may register with an official Secondary School Reference Form signed by their local high school authorized representative. U.S. high school graduates and 16-year-olds must meet additional eligibility requirements. New students should attend an orientation session before attending classes. The Adult Education and ESL division provides several specific types of educational opportunities and is funded in part by grants from the federal government representing 12 percent of the total cost of the program. For more information contact Adult Education and ESL Division, (847) 543-2485 or adultedtesting@clcillinois.edu.
Adult Basic Education
Adult Basic Education (ABE) provides class instruction in reading comprehension, vocabulary development, writing, mathematics and workforce skills.
Adult Secondary Education
Adult Secondary Education (ASE) classes prepare adults who have not completed high school to take high school equivalency exams (GED or HiSET ). In addition to the exams, students must complete the Illinois Constitution Lesson before they are awarded an Illinois high school diploma .Exams and classes are offered in English and Spanish.
English as a Second Language
English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are for English language learners. In ESL classes, students practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing; digital literacy and workforce skills are also taught. Students can enroll at various levels and advance based on their test scores.
Bridge Programs
Bridge Programs (BRGA) are offered to Adult Education students who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, manufacturing, computer information technology, criminal justice, administrative management and technology, early childhood education, Entrepreneurship. The curriculum familiarizes students with the terminology, skills and standard practices of their field of interest. Students who enroll in BRGA are required to meet certain prerequisites such as qualifying for the program with a CASAS placement test score.
ICAPS Programs
The ICAPS program facilitates the transition from adult education to college and allows students to earn a career certificate in one year or less. Students interested in the ICAPS program must meet the career program’s requirements as well as apply and get accepted into the ICAPS program. Students accepted into the ICAPS program receive academic support, guidance on job seeking and opportunities to apply for financial aid or scholarships.