Fast Track is an intensive program designed for students who need English skills for work and/or college and want to move quickly toward their goals. Students should have at least eight hours a week for classes and homework. Fast Track students are encouraged to take computer and college readiness classes. Community ELA is for students who have less time to attend classes and do homework. These classes will focus on day-to-day English needed for life in the US.

ELA classes are funded by the US government to prepare people for working and/or going to school in the US. If you will live permanently in the US, you are eligible for our classes. If you are planning to return to your home country someday, you are not eligible.

If you are here on a visa that does not allow you to work and go to school, we can help you find other programs. If you are an international student, we recommend ELCI. If you are not an international student, there are English classes available through our Community Education that are open to visitors.

Virtual classes meet at specific days and times on Zoom. In-person classes are typically offered at the Albany Campus, the Benton Center, and the DHS building in Corvallis on Research Way. We have daytime, evening, and some Saturday options. Not all classes are offered every term.

Classes are free!

While most classes start at the beginning of a new term, some classes are open enrollment. Usually we can get you started at any point in the term. We will help you prepare to register for the classes you want at the start of the next term.

You should be prepared to attend each class you sign up for at least 90% of the time, which means you can have no more than two unexcused absences per term. This includes online classes. We can’t help you meet your goals if you aren’t in class.

Missing a lot of classes will affect your progress in the program and can affect whether or not you are able to register for future terms.

You will take a CASAS (Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems) test when you enter the program and then usually once a term to monitor your progress. This test shows your level and helps us get you into the right class. Taking the CASAS is a requirement, and you are able to schedule the test either in-person or virtually at your convenience.

These classes are meant for adults ages 18 and over. Rarely, we can accept those aged 16 or 17 who have been formally released from compulsory education or have documentation to show they have graduated high school from their home country. No one under the age of 16 is eligible for ELA. LBCC does not allow children to attend classes with parents or guardians.

Yes! LBCC has Student Navigators who can help you plan for college. They help with things like financial aid, researching programs at LBCC, navigating the admissions process, and more. We also have a special class, College and Career Readiness, to help you get ready to transition into college.