[request a revision or addition for this page or section]

Bilingual and English as a Second Language (ESL)

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions
for the English as a Second Language Approval Program

What is an Approval?
An approval (or statement of approval) is a letter from the Illinois State Board of Education that is given to already certified teachers in order to instruct students in the content area of the approval. This approval is only applicable to grade levels and age groups specified by the teacher's ISBE certificate.

What is the English as a Second Language (ESL) Approval and what can I do with it?
The ESL Approval supplements teacher certification by allowing a certified teacher (or a student in the process of achieving certification) to teach English language learners.

What coursework do I need in order to complete the ESL Approval?
Candidates must complete a series of 5 classes (20 hours) related to ESL and bilingual education methods and theory along with 30 hours of in-classroom practicum per class.

What is the Bilingual Approval and what can I do with it?
The Bilingual Approval supplements teacher certification by allowing a certified teacher (or a teacher in the process of achieving certifications) to teach English language learners. The Bilingual Approval also requires fluency in a language other than English and an additional test administered by the state must be completed in order to achieve this certification. All individuals who receive a Bilingual Approval have already completed the necessary requirements to attain the ESL Approval and will receive this as well.

What is the difference between the ESL and Bilingual Approvals?
The Bilingual Approval requires fluency in one (or more) of an approved language in addition to English . An additional test administered by the state must be completed in order to achieve this certification.

What coursework do I need in order to complete the Bilingual Approval?
Candidates must complete a series of 5 classes (20 hours) related to ESL and bilingual education methods and theory along with 30 hours of in-classroom practicum per class. An additional test administered by the state must be completed in order to achieve this certification.

If I am a teacher of English language learners, can I apply my classroom work towards my practicum?
Yes.

Can I get this approval if I'm not presently enrolled in a Degree program at the College of Education?

1. You do not need to be enrolled in any University Program, this program can supplement your existing education and training. These courses can be taken through the Office of Continuing Education.
2. Non-degree applicants can enroll in the five courses required for these Approvals (applicants must meet the non-degree application deadlines for these courses).

Can I complete these approvals in one term?
All five (5) courses are offered in every term (Fall, Spring, and Summer), however, all five courses cannot be completed in one term.