English Language Acquisition

English Language Acquisition (E.L.A.) classes are available for adult non-native speakers of English.

The English Language Acquisition (ELA) program supports adult learners with college and career workplace readiness skills in developing English proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with a focus on grammar, vocabulary, and communication. It also integrates digital literacy to prepare students for future ready academic success and career advancement.

Enrollment

Applicants must be 18 or older, provide valid ID, must show documentation establishing U.S. Citizenship or presence in the United States as a qualified alien, and complete placement testing in reading, listening, and/or speaking. Enrollment is first-come, first-served based on class availability. Early arrival is encouraged.

Register on-line through our portal: Virginia Adult Education Region 20 Student Portal. You will then be contacted to attend placement evaluation and orientation in person.

Testing Dates

Programming Dates and Fees

Interested Applicants

Questions or Need Help?

We’re here to support your journey! Thank you for your interest in our program! Have a wonderful day! We wish you all the best in your educational endeavors. Please know if you have any questions or need support you are welcome to contact us at 757-648-6050 or review the ALC website https://adultlearning.vbschools.com/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who Is Eligible to Participate?

Who Can Participate in This Program?

This federally funded English language program is available only to individuals who meet citizenship or immigration eligibility under federal law (PRWORA). Eligible participants include U.S. Citizens: Born in the U.S. or U.S. territories and Naturalized citizens. Eligible noncitizens, including but not limited to (as defined under 8 U.S.C. § 1641(b) and referenced in PRWORA): Refugees, Asylees, Cuban/Haitian entrants, Conditional entrants (prior to 1980), Victims of trafficking (as defined under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act), Battered spouses and children (with appropriate documentation), Parolees (with at least 1 year of parole and evidence of status), Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders), TPS holders (Temporary Protected Status), and Certain visa holders (e.g., NATO personnel and families).

What Documents Will You Need?

What Are the Next Steps?

Related Documents

Adult Student Profile Document (English)

ELA List of Accepted Documentation

English Language Acquisition (E.L.A.) classes are available for adult non-native speakers of English.

Six levels of classes are offered including: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. No appointment needed. Students will enter the program based on class availability, pending a valid test score on program assessments. If classes are full, students will be placed on a waiting list and contacted when openings are available. A valid, current, government-issued picture ID and proof of residency are required. Testing/interviews are offered on a walk-in basis. Please call 757-648-6050 for interview dates.

The Adult Learning Center does not provide childcare or transportation.

Class Schedules: Day: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM or 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM.
Evening: Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Classes are held at the Adult Learning Center located at 5100 Cleveland St., Virginia Beach, VA 23462.

Class Fees: Virginia Beach Residents: $50 registration.
Non-residents (living in other cities): $100 registration. Class fees are not refundable.

*If you don't see the language option you need below, please visit the Virginia Department of Education here.

Adult Student Profile Document (English)

Adult Student Profile Document (Spanish)

Adult Student Profile Document (Arabic)

Adult Student Profile Document (Korean)

Adult Student Profile Document (Tagalog)

Adult Student Profile Document (Vietnamese)

Adult Student Profile Document (Pashto)

Adult Student Profile Document (Persian)

Call 757-648-6050 for more E.L.A. program information.