ESL Programs

Students are placed in semester-long sections of ENGL 12000 based on their results on the CUNY assessment tests in writing and reading. Incoming students who have not met Hunter’s language proficiency standards are required to take placement tests, but all students with ESL backgrounds are encouraged to take the tests in order for the Department to better judge their abilities and advise them on what classes to take before moving on to advanced coursework. In particular, we highly encourage all transfer and 2nd degree students who are not required to take the ESL placement tests but who have gone to school primarily in non-English speaking settings to take the placement tests.

Please note that if you are looking to just improve your English, the above information is not for you. Here are some links for you to click if you would like to improve your English at Hunter College:

1. International English Language Institute at Hunter
   • This is a language school at Hunter College.
2. Hunter College - School of Education.
   • This is a community outreach program in English language for immigrants at Hunter College.

For more information about ESL sections of English 120 and 220 and workshops, contact the ESL Coordinator, Cindy Wishengrad.

During Fall semesters, the English department offers at least one section of ENGLISH 120 reserved just for non-native speakers of English. In this section, you will get expert instruction not only in writing, but also in critical reading, understanding cultural references, tackling academic vocabulary, and advanced grammar and sentence structure.

This section is not listed as "ESL" on your transcript, and you will receive the same number of credits as you would for any section of ENGLISH 120.

During Spring semesters, the English department offers at least one section of ENGLISH 120 reserved just for non-native speakers of English. Additionally, there is at least one section of ENGLISH 220 each Spring reserved just for non-native speakers of English.

You can find these sections listed in CUNYFirst with an "ESL" designation. Additionally, you can contact the ESL Program Coordinator, Cindy Wishengrad, to find out which sections are designated as "ESL."

NOTE: In order to register for ESL sections of English 120 and English 220, please email Cindy Wishengrad for permission. In your email include your CUNYFirst EMPL ID number and mention which course and section you'd like to take. Once you receive an email back from Ms. Wishengrad with permission, the course will then be open to you to register for on CUNYfirst.