ESL Course Placement

How can I take ESL classes?

Before classes begin, students who speak English as a second or foreign language must take the CaMLA, which is Parkland's ESL placement test. This test determines whether a student must be placed in only ESL classes, is qualified to take a combination of ESL and academic courses, or may begin regular academic courses after passing the Writing Sample. 

How can I take regular academic classes? 

Most regular academic classes (courses above the 100 level) require placement into ENG 099 or ENG 101. Placement into ENG 099 or ENG 101 (College ESL) is achieved by successfully completing the Parkland College Writing Sample. To be eligible to take the Writing Sample, students must meet one of the following requirements: 

  • Paper-based TOEFL score of 500 or higher
  • Internet-based TOEFL score of 61 or higher
  • IELTS band score of 61 or higher
  • For students who have been admitted to Parkland: CaMLA ESL placement score of 69 or higher 

After a student passes the Writing Sample, they may register for College ESL along with regular academic classes. 

If a student does not meet any of the above criteria, Parkland's CaMLA ESL placement test will place the student into the appropriate level of the Pre-College ESL program.