Frequently Asked Questions
Do you teach children or teenagers?
No, we only teach people who are over 18 years old.
Why do I have to pay a fee?
Fees help pay for the time our staff spends processing your information and placing you in the best class for your skills.
Why could there be an additional fee for non-local students?
The English Center is a non-profit organization that is funded by grants and donations.
We receive grants and donations for local students only.
What if I decide I don’t want to continue taking a class?
Please notify the teacher if you no longer want to attend class so that your seat may be given to a waiting student.
Do all students get accepted?
No, some students are placed on a waiting list. If the class you qualify for is full, you will be placed on a waiting list and notified by email if any spots become available.
What is the process for becoming a student at The English Center?
Click Apply Now and fill out the registration form.
Use the link at the end of the Registration Form to schedule a Zoom interview.
Click here to learn more about the interview process.
After your interview, you will be sent an email with information about your class placement and payment information. (Note: students are accepted on a first come, first served basis.)
How do I know which level I'm in?
We'll tell you. After you complete the registration form and have a Zoom chat with one of our teachers, we will use this information to figure out the best class for you. We will email you and let you know which class you qualify for.
How many students will be in my class?
Classes accept between 9 and 15 students.
Who are the other students in my class?
Students from any country around the world can be in the same class
What if I have questions about a lesson after class is over?
Email your teacher–they will be happy to answer your questions.
What if I get sick or have to travel and can’t attend class?
Always let your teacher know by email if you can’t attend class. Your seat will be held if you are absent for any good reason.
What if my teacher has to cancel class?
If there is an emergency or a situation that requires your teacher to have to cancel class, you will receive an email notification through Google Classroom announcements. That message will have the details of the cancellation and any further instructions.
What is the attendance policy for students ?
Missing 2 consecutive classes without notifying the teacher and without an acceptable excuse will result in the student losing their seat in the class, as well as the student having to repeat the application process.
What’s an acceptable excuse for missing class?
Acceptable excuses include: illness, travel, personal emergencies, and occasional work conflicts.
What is the yearly class schedule, including breaks?
Classes start September 15 and 16 (2025). No classes November 26, 27. Winter break, no classes December 15, 2025 through January 9, 2026. Classes begin again on Monday, January 12, 2026. Last day of classes, May 14 and 15, 2026.
What are the requirements for starting classes?
We do not require any outside testing or exams.
What minimum proficiency level do I need before starting at The English Center?
We accept students at all skill levels. We will assess you and choose the best level for your success.
When and how do I pay for classes?
If you are accepted as a student, you will be emailed a Payment Link to pay your fee. Once your fee is paid, you will receive a class link via Gmail. (Note: We do not accept cash. USA students may also pay by check or money order.) We are also happy to make payment arrangements.
Do these classes count towards college credit, certificate programs (TOFL, IELTS, TOEIC), or citizenship preparation ?
No, we do not partner with any programs or universities.
Is the school able to provide student visas?
No, we do not provide visas.
What if I qualify for a class that is offered on a day or time that is not good for me?
We make every effort to place students in a class that is offered on a convenient day and time. However, if you cannot attend the class that you qualify for, we will keep your name on file in case our class schedule changes in the future.
Do I need to purchase a book or other material for my class?
No, all materials are posted in the Google Classroom.