English Literacy Acquisition (ELA) Program

Students in Harper College's English Literacy Acquisition program listen and take notes on laptops during a lecture in classroom on campus in Palatine, Illinois.

Improve Your English Skills at Harper College

Harper College’s English Literacy Acquisition (ELA) program offers free classes to help non-native English speakers improve their English skills. Students will gain a better understanding of the English language and develop problem solving and communication abilities to become more productive workers, family members, and citizens.

The ELA program offers free beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes in English topics such as speaking, listening, reading and writing, digital literacy, and workplace preparation. All classes take place in-person at one of our campus locations in the Chicago suburbs. Harper's ELA classes meet 2–3 times per week for 2.5 hours.

Learning a language is a commitment that requires motivation to succeed. Harper is committed to helping you accomplish your goals and set you on the path to a brighter future. Get started today by exploring Harper’s English Literacy Acquisition (ELA) program. Harper’s AED department operates under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

ELA Program Video Overview

The video overview of the ELA program is also available in Spanish and Russian.

How to Apply

Get started today by submitting an online application.

Click the Apply button below to go to the application website.
Create a new user account.
Click Start New.
Scroll down to find the application for Adult Educational Development - English Language Acquisition (ELA).
Select your preferred term. Example: Fall 2025
Answer all screening questions.
Save, review, and submit your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a computer for class?

Yes, you will need a computer for a class. If you do not have one, Harper College Library's Semester Loan Technology program provides Chromebooks for enrolled students to borrow free of charge throughout the semester.

When does the fall or spring semester start?

The fall semester begins in August, and the spring semester starts in January. Specific dates are updated each year. For a more detailed breakdown of the school year, visit the Harper College Academic Calendar page.

How often does the Basic English Language (ELA) class meet?

Harper's English Literacy Acquisition (ELA) classes meet twice a week, either on Monday and Wednesday or on Tuesday and Thursday.

What are the ELA class hours?

Harper's ELA program offers morning and evening classes. Morning classes run from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, while evening classes are from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm.