English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
BPS Adult Education offers FREE English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes for those who need to develop skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Students from all countries and at all skills levels are welcome to enroll.
Classes range from beginning literacy through advanced level ESOL classes that focus on vocabulary building, conversation practice and comprehension skills.
All learners 17 and older are welcome.
Classrooms are located throughout the City of Buffalo with Distance Education and Virtual options available to those who qualify. Classes are also held in the morning, afternoon, or evening so you can find a class that fits into your schedule!
All students must attend a mandatory orientation to begin classes with Adult Education. The orientation takes place at the Adult Learning Center, 389 Virginia Street, Buffalo NY 14202. If you are signing up and qualify for distance education or virtual classes, this will be one of the only times you have to go in person.
Schedule your intake and orientation appointment here: LINK
Having trouble scheduling an appointment? Click here: LINK
If you are 17-21 years old, click here: LINK and we will call you!
Need Help or More Information?
Current students call (716) 816-3369
New students call (716) 888-7088
For more information on Distance Education programs call (716) 816-3395
For assistance with registration or signing up for orientation call (716) 888-7088
Virtual ESOL Classes - Information Session
BPS Adult Ed is now offering a virtual ESOL class beginning in the Fall of 2026. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more, please join us at our upcoming information sessions.
Friday, September 25th from 10:00 - 10:30am
Tuesday, September 29th from 6:00 - 6:30pm
Meetings will be held on Google Meets at: https://meet.google.com/opg-ybms-apg
ESOL Locations
Adult Learning Center (ALC) | 389 Virginia St., Buffalo, NY 14201 |
The Belle Center | 104 Maryland St., Buffalo, NY 14201 |
Career Collegiate Institute (CCI) | 425 South Park Ave., Buffalo, NY 14204 |
Gloria J. Parks Community Center | 3242 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14214 |
Lt. Matt Urban Human Services Center | 1081 Broadway St., Buffalo, NY 14212 |
Northwest Buffalo Community Center | 155 Lawn Ave., Buffalo, NY 14207 |
Response to Love Center | 130 Kosciuszko St., Buffalo, NY 14212 |
Workplace Literacy Center | 160 Edward St., Buffalo, NY 14201 |
Meet Our Students from Around the World!
Faramarz (Afghanistan) has been in Buffalo about 4 months. He works at BJ's and is hoping to improve his English enough to be promoted to a higher-paying position.
Marie (Hati) wants to improve her English fluency to be able to work in an office setting.
This is Yordania and Yordano (Venezuela) her son, both students at the ALC. Yordania is the head of household and wants to learn English quickly so that she can take care of her family's needs. Yordano is enjoying experiencing a new culture and the socialization that our class provides.
Halyna (Ukraine) is taking English classes to improve her grammar and fluency so she can communicate with more confidence in the community and find employment in the future.