Atlanta

1. English Language Classes in Atlanta

Atlanta has a wide range of English language learning opportunities, from free community programs to paid courses at educational institutions. Here are some options:

A. Free or Low-Cost English Classes

1. Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System

   • Many branches of the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library offer free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes or conversation groups. These are often led by volunteers and cater to beginner and intermediate learners.
   • Website: www.afpls.org
   • Cost: Free
   • How to Register: Visit your local library branch or check their website for schedules.

2. Catholic Charities Atlanta

   • Offers ESL classes for adults, including workplace English and conversation practice.
   • Website: www.catholiccharitiesatlanta.org
   • Cost: Low-cost (fees vary based on the program).
   • How to Register: Call or visit their website to find class schedules and registration details.

3. Refugee Family Literacy Program (International Rescue Committee - IRC Atlanta)

   • Provides free ESL classes for refugees and immigrants, with a focus on practical English for daily life.
   • Website: www.rescue.org/atlanta
   • Cost: Free
   • How to Register: Contact IRC Atlanta directly for enrollment information.

4. Goodwill of North Georgia

   • Offers free ESL classes as part of their career services programs.
   • Website: www.goodwillng.org
   • Cost: Free
   • How to Register: Visit their website or contact a local Goodwill Career Center.

B. Paid English Classes

1. Georgia State University (GSU) - Intensive English Program

   • Offers a comprehensive program for students who want to improve their English for academic or professional purposes.
   • Website: iep.gsu.edu
   • Cost: Approximately $2,500 per 8-week session.
   • How to Register: Apply online through the GSU Intensive English Program website.

2. Atlanta English Institute (AEI)

   • Provides a variety of ESL courses, including general English, business English, and test preparation (TOEFL, IELTS).
   • Website: www.atlantaenglishinstitute.com
   • Cost: $300–$500 per month, depending on the program.
   • How to Register: Contact AEI directly or register online.

3. Berlitz Atlanta

   • Offers personalized English language training for individuals and groups, including corporate clients.
   • Website: www.berlitz.com
   • Cost: Varies based on the program and customization.
   • How to Register: Schedule a consultation through their website.

---

2. English Proficiency Test Centers in Atlanta

If you need to take an English proficiency test for academic, immigration, or professional purposes, Atlanta has several test centers offering exams like TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test.

A. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

• Test Centers: Multiple locations, including Prometric Test Centers and universities.
• Cost: $195
• How to Register: Create an account on the ETS website (www.ets.org/toefl) and select a test date and location.

B. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

• Test Centers: IELTS is offered at the Georgia Institute of Technology and other locations in Atlanta.
• Cost: $245–$255
• How to Register: Register online at www.ielts.org.

C. Duolingo English Test

• Test Centers: This is an online test that can be taken from home.
• Cost: $59
• How to Register: Visit www.englishtest.duolingo.com to create an account and schedule the test.

D. Other Tests

• Pearson PTE Academic: Available at Pearson test centers in Atlanta.
• Cost: $200–$220
• How to Register: Visit www.pearsonpte.com.

---

3. Local Organizations Supporting Non-Native English Speakers

1. Welcoming Atlanta (City of Atlanta Initiative)

   • A city-run program that supports immigrants and non-native English speakers with resources, including language access services.
   • Website: www.welcomingatlanta.com

2. Latin American Association (LAA)

   • Offers ESL classes, job readiness training, and other support services for Spanish-speaking immigrants.
   • Website: www.thelaa.org

3. Asian American Resource Center (AARC)

   • Provides ESL classes and cultural orientation for Asian immigrants.
   • Website: www.aarc-atlanta.org

4. Friends of Refugees

   • Offers ESL classes, job training, and community support for refugees and immigrants.
   • Website: www.friendsofrefugees.com

---

4. Practical Tips for Navigating Atlanta as a Non-Fluent English Speaker

1. Use Translation Apps

   • Apps like Google Translate and Microsoft Translator can help you communicate in real-time. Many Atlantans are accustomed to interacting with non-native speakers and are patient with language barriers.

2. Public Transportation

   • MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) is the main public transportation system in Atlanta. MARTA staff are generally helpful, and signage is available in English. Use the MARTA app for route planning.

3. Learn Key Phrases

   • Focus on learning essential English phrases for daily interactions, such as ordering food, asking for directions, or shopping.

4. Join Community Groups

   • Many cultural and immigrant communities in Atlanta host events and meetups where you can practice English in a supportive environment.

5. Carry Identification

   • Always carry a form of ID and a card with emergency contact information, including someone who speaks English, in case you need assistance.

6. Seek Out Multilingual Services

   • Many businesses, hospitals, and government offices in Atlanta offer services in multiple languages. Don’t hesitate to ask for an interpreter if needed.

---

5. Additional Resources

• Meetup Groups: Search for English conversation groups or language exchange meetups in Atlanta on www.meetup.com.
• YouTube Channels: Channels like "English Addict with Mr. Steve" or "BBC Learning English" can supplement your learning.
• Mobile Apps: Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone are excellent tools for practicing English on the go.

---

Atlanta is a welcoming city with a wealth of resources for non-native English speakers. Whether you’re looking to improve your language skills for work, school, or daily life, you’ll find plenty of support to help you succeed. Let me know if you need further assistance!