The ESL program at Honolulu Community College is designed to meet the needs of non-native speakers who want to improve their English skills to be successful in college and as members of the community.
- Level 1 Low Intermediate ESL 3 & 4
- Level 2 High Intermediate ESL 13 & 14
- Level 3 Advanced ESL 23 & 24
ESL Courses
Note: Non-Credit English Language Learner Options (HELLO) courses are also available. Visit Continuing Education for more information.
The ESL program at Honolulu Community College is designed to meet the needs of non-native speakers who want to improve their English skills to be successful in college and as members of the community. Courses are focused on academic reading, writing, and grammar skills.
- ESL 3 College Reading/Writing Skills
- ESL 4 Grammar I
- ESL 13 College Reading/Writing Skills II
- ESL 14 Grammar II
- ESL 23 Introduction to Expository Writing for NNS
- ESL 24 Grammar III
Test Scores
For resident immigrant students no TOEFL or IETLS test score is required for admission to the English Language Learner Options (HELLO) program and the ESL program. In addition, a TOEFL score is not required to enter the credit degree program if the student completes the advanced level of the HELLO program.
For international students, acceptable tests and test scores are:
- TOEFL (Paper) 400 *
- TOEFL (Computer) 97, iBT 32 *
- EIKEN Level 2/Pre-2, GTEC 800, IELTS 4, and Cambridge PET **
These scores are required to be admitted to Honolulu Community College, however, program placement will be determined by an English Placement Test, writing sample, and interview. Finally, based on the placement score, students may need to enroll in HELLO prior to credit course work.
* TOEFL scores must be from a test no earlier than two years prior to the date of enrollment.
** Submit OFFICIAL EIKEN test scores or OFFICIAL Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are ESL classes at Honolulu Community College (Honolulu CC) similar/different from other campuses?
The courses at Honolulu CC have a very diverse student body, fewer levels, and are designed to meet the needs of students who want a career in Liberal Arts and Technical/Occupational degree programs.
What are the levels?
- Intermediate – Level 1
- High Intermediate – Level 2
- Advanced – Level 3
How long does it take to complete the ESL program?
Depending on the student’s progress, it may take up to three semesters.
Honolulu CC has two ESL Programs, which program is right for me?
The ESL program is designed for non-native speakers who are seeking a degree where ENG 100 is required.
No TOEFL or other English test score is required for admission to the HELLO Program.
The HELLO program is a non-credit program for non-native speakers who want to improve their English skills to increase their chances on the job market or plan to apply to Honolulu Community College.
A TOEFL or other English text score is not required to enter the credit degree program if the student completes the advanced level of the HELLO Program or with a recommendation from the HELLO instructor.
Visit Continuing Education for more information about the HELLO Program.
I am a resident immigrant student. How can I begin taking classes at Honolulu CC?
Contact Kalehua Kamakawiwoole ESL Coordinator at khkamaka@hawaii.edu.
I am an international student. How can I begin taking classes at Honolulu CC?
Complete the Honolulu CC online application. Then, contact Kalehua Kamakawiwoole ESL Coordinator at khkamaka@hawaii.edu.
