Adult Learning
IN PERSON CLASSES ARE BACK!
Are you a refugee, immigrant or non-native English speaking Utica resident interested in learning English? We offer FREE English courses to fit with your schedule.
Overview
The Center offers on-site English language classes for speakers of other languages (ESOL), administered through Mohawk Valley Community College. Our goal is to enable adult learners to be literate, productive, and successful in the workplace, home, and community by delivering responsive adult education programs and services. This program focuses on improving the English skills of its participants and also develops employment skills that will benefit students both professionally and socially. All non-native English-speaking Utica residents who are 18 and older can take the ESOL classes for free. When taking the course, students are enrolled as non-credit MVCC students.
Program Highlights
- Free classes for learners in New York State
- Monday-Friday 9:30am-2:30pm (with coverage until 4:00pm)
- Tuesday & Thursday 12:30pm - 3:30pm
- Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 4:00pm-6:00pm - Online
- Offering many class times that are conveniently offered on a rolling basis, join at any time!
Key Contact Information
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The Center
We offer In-Person and Virtual Classes.
Click for our class flyers, and translations provided by The Center's Tone Translate





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FAQs
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What level English class do I take?
After you register for the class, you will be required to take a placement assessment to determine which English class you will be in. You will be placed in an English class based on your language level.
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Do I need to pay anything to attend class?
No. All classes are free!
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I am not an immigrant or a refugee, can I still register for English classes?
Yes! Any individual who is a non-native English speaker who needs assistance learning English can attend. This includes individuals from Puerto Rico.
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Why should I take English classes at The Center?
The Center is a centralized hub where you can access all of the resources and services you need to start your life in Utica. We want to make it convenient for you to be successful and thrive! While you are taking English classes at The Center, you can work with your resettlement caseworker, visit an employment specialist to apply for a job, make an immigration appointment, have school or immigration documents translated, attend community education courses, get assistance with your driver’s license, and take advantage of many other services that are available to you.
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Do you provide literacy assistance for adults?
Our program is designed specifically for speakers of other languages. At this time we do not offer a program for adults who need literacy assistance. The Literacy Coalition of Herkimer and Oneida Counties offers these programs, and you can email them at literacycoalitionhoc@gmail.com for assistance.
Resources & Materials
- English as a Second Language Class (English)
- English as a Second Language Class (Arabic)
- English as a Second Language Class (Burmese)
- English as a Second Language Class (Karen)
- English as a Second Language Class (Russian)
- English as a Second Language Class (Spanish)
- English as a Second Language Class (Swahili)