Cuesta’s ESL program provides language development opportunities for students of all English language proficiency levels in our community. We help students improve their English language skills so that they may achieve their personal, academic, and professional goals as well as participate more effectively in their communities.

We offer a range of courses from basic literacy to advanced. Beginning and intermediate level ESL classes offer foundational instruction in English language skills, and the advanced courses prepare students for degree-applicable English, technical education, and other mainstream college coursework. We also offer classes in conversation, vocational computer skills (VESL), and U.S. citizenship. 

All of the ESL courses are non-credit, with the exception of the highest level, ESL 99E. All noncredit courses are free for students, and most sites offer childcare.

ESL classes are held in at the South County Center in Arroyo Grande, the main campus in San Luis Obispo, the North County Center in Paso Robles, and a number of community sites across the county. 

There are several certificates available to our noncredit students. Successful completion of a designated course sequence allows students to earn various certificates.

Evaluation and Registration

New students need to take an ESL evaluation to determine their language level. Call or visit the ESL office for more information.

San Luis Obispo Campus/South County Centers: (805)-546-3942
Cuesta College Continuing Education Office 3133B
Highway 1 San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

North County Campus: (805) 591-6273
Cuesta College Continuing Education Office, N3032
2800 Buena Vista Dr. Paso Robles, CA 93446

Coming soon: advanced ESL support courses for noncredit career and technical education (CTE) certificates including Autobody and Culinary