The International English as a Second Language (IESL) Pathway program at Cañada College is designed for international students who do not meet the English proficiency requirements for direct admission. This program combines English language instruction with college courses and prepares students for degree programs. Successful completion guarantees admission to Cañada College, College of San Mateo or Skyline College without taking the standardized English test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Start Your Application Contact the International Student Center
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Why Choose the IESL Pathway Program?

Study in the heart of the Bay Area with practical support, a welcoming campus community, and resources that help you thrive.

  • Silicon Valley Location
    Cañada College is in Redwood City, between San Francisco and San Jose.
  • Beautiful Campus With State-of-the-art Facilities
    Take advantage of a scenic campus with state-of-the-art facilities and modern learning environments.
  • Homestay Program and Housing Assistance
    Find homestay opportunities and housing resources to help you secure comfortable accommodations.
  • Scholarship Opportunities
    Explore more than 50+ institutional scholarships.
  • Access to Campus Resources
    Access to all college resources, including the Athletic Center, Library, Tutoring, and Health Center.
  • Campus Jobs and Student Activities
    Eligible to work on campus while you study. Enjoy a vibrant campus life with student clubs and organizations.
Illustrated San Francisco Bay Area map showing Cañada, CSM, and Skyline College
Cañada College, home to the IESL Pathway, is located between San Francisco and San Jose in the Bay Area.

Program Information

Full-Time Enrollment

Take 10 ESL units plus 2–6 selected college units for a total of 12–16 full-time units per semester.

Transferable College Credit

Earn up to 18 transferable college-course credits in addition to ESL credits.

Program Levels

IESL Courses
Level Courses and recognition
Level 2
  • ESL 912 (5 Units)
  • ESL 922 (5 Units)
Level 3
  • ESL 913 (5 Units)
  • ESL 923 (5 Units)
Level 4
  • ESL 914 (5 Units)
  • ESL 924 (5 Units)
  • Academic Command of English (ACE) Award

Program Duration

The IESL program typically takes 1–3 semesters, approximately 5–18 months. Completing Level 4 fulfills the English-proficiency requirement for academic program admission. 

 

Application Deadlines
Entry Term New Student Transfer Student
Fall July 1 August 1
Spring November 15  January 1

Admission Information

For more details on admission requirements, application process, deadlines, and program cost, please visit the Admission Page.

No application fee. Submit your application through the international application portal.

Start Your Application

For IESL Pathway Program questions please contact the Cañada College International Student Center.

Cañada College

International Student Center
Building 9, Room 163
4200 Farm Hill Blvd.
Redwood City, CA 94061

Phone: +1 (650) 381-3544

Email: caninternational@smccd.edu