Community ESL at Cornell is a program organized by local community volunteers with Cornell connections.

About Our English Conversation Classes

Who Can Participate?

Community ESL at Cornell English conversation classes are offered for spouses, partners and adult family members of international students and for visiting scholars.

Free Classes, Dedicated Teachers

Community ESL at Cornell adult classes are free, and are taught by dedicated local community members. Our teachers help newcomers gain confidence in English, introduce them to local customs, and provide opportunities to make new friends.

Registration: Fall 2025 (Sept 8-Dec 4)

Online registration for Fall 2025 classes is available now:

Register for Fall 2025 Classes

Each Fall 2025 class will meet for 2 hours per week, either in-person on the Cornell campus or virtual via Zoom video-conferencing. Class dates for Fall 2025 are: September 8 2025-December 4 2025.

Class Times

• Tuesdays, 10am-noon. Location: Hasbrouck. Level: Intermediate. Teachers: Lorraine & Mary
• Wednesdays, 1-3pm. Location: Hasbrouck. Level: Advanced. Teachers: Chris & Linda
• Thursdays, 10am-noon. Location: Hasbrouck. Level: Advanced. Teachers: Anna & Betsy
• Thursdays, 1-3pm. Location: Hasbrouck. Level: Intermediate. Teachers: Ellen & Robin
• Thursdays, 6-8pm. Location: Zoom. Level: Intermediate. Teacher: Debakshi

There is no cost for the classes. 

Questions?

If you have questions, please contact eslcornell@gmail.com.

Volunteer Opportunities

We are looking for local community volunteers to teach, co-teach or assist with ESL classes.

ESL teaching background is not required. If you are good at organizing communication activities and leading small groups in conversation, you could lead an ESL conversation class. Please contact us at eslcornell@gmail.com, if you would like more information.

Other ESL Classes and Programs at Cornell and in Ithaca

• English for International Students and Scholars (EISS) – Academic year and summer session: English classes for international students and scholars. There is a fee.
• Open Doors English – Anyone is eligible. Beginner to Advanced English classes taught by experienced teachers, including all skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking, pronunciation, and grammar), and providing a strong sense of school community. For more information, see Open Doors English, or call 607-319-5051 or email esloffice.ode at gmail.com to set up an appointment or register.
• TST BOCES ESL– Free English classes offered to individuals living in the Ithaca area who want to learn English for work, training and higher education. Classes meet all year on Mondays and are located at 118 N. Tioga Street in downtown Ithaca. Visit TST BOCES ESL to register or call (607) 273-4095 for more information.