Prior to entering SCTCC
If you need to work on your academic English skills before attending SCTCC, the following may be of interest to you:
English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are for adults whose native language is not English. These courses are offered off campus in St. Cloud and Sauk Rapids. Classes are designed to help adults develop English speaking, listening, reading and writing skills according to their individual goals. Six separate levels for the ESL student to learn and build their English skills are offered. For more information or to enroll go to the ABE website.
Getting started at SCTCC
When you're ready to get started at SCTCC, your first step will be to complete the online application. After you apply, you will receive information from Admissions that outlines your next steps.
After you are accepted to St. Cloud Technical and Community College, you will be asked to take a placement test for Reading and Math. More details and study materials can be found at SCTCC's Accuplacer page.
SCTCC’s ESOL courses are designed for students whose first language is not English, and who wish to improve their general and academic English. Student placement into one of the three levels will be determined by the ESL Reading Accuplacer test score, an intake interview, and an optional writing sample.
SCTCC’s ESOL courses consist of 3 levels. Not all students will need to take all three levels. Each level will include a reading course, a writing course and a speaking and listening course.
This level includes foundational courses in writing, reading and speaking and listening. Students will learn basic communication skills that can be applied in general settings.
- Foundations for Grammar and Writing – ESOL 0710
- Foundations for Reading and Vocabulary – ESOL 0720
- Foundations for Speaking and Listening – ESOL 0730
This level includes courses in writing, reading, and speaking and listening that introduce students to academic and professional communications.
- Writing for Academic Purposes – ESOL 0810
- Reading for Academic Purposes – ESOL 0820
- Speaking and Listening for Academic Purposes – ESOL 0830
This level includes courses in writing, reading, and listening and speaking that prepare students for the high communication demands found in college level courses.
- Writing for College – ESOL 0910
- Reading for College – ESOL 0920
- Speaking and Listening for College – ESOL 0930
Resources
Your success is important to us! SCTCC offers many student resources that you can take advantage of while you're here.
If you test into ESOL courses, an ESOL advisor will monitor your progress as you take your classes and work towards your degree. If you test into general education courses or are enrolled in a program, you will also have an advisor who provides these services. All advisors provide support and resources to help you be a successful college student.
The Mary Stangler Center for Academic Success (CAS) offers free tutoring services to all St. Cloud Technical & Community College students, faculty, and staff. The CAS employs more than 20 part-time students and four full-time learning center professionals committed to providing an inclusive learning environment to assist learners of all abilities and backgrounds.
Joining clubs is a great way to get connected with other students, get involved, discover new interests, share common interests, and have fun at SCTCC.
The Multicultural Center, located in Northway 1-313, exists to foster social equity. The Multicultural Center hosts events throughout the year, and is also available as a lounge and study area.
Contact Us
