Part-Time English Program
Learn English in Austin at Your Own Pace
Improve your English for work, university, travel, or everyday life. Choose the courses that match your goals and study with experienced teachers in small, interactive classes.
✓ No F-1 student visa required
Flexible Course Load
Choose the classes you need
Flexible Start Dates
Multiple start dates during the year
Beginner to Advanced
Placement helps you start correctly
Small Interactive Classes
Learn with active participation
A Flexible Way to Learn
English Classes That Fit Your Goals
This program is designed for adults who want high-quality English instruction without enrolling in HOFT's full-time F-1 program. You can select one or more courses based on your goals, availability, and current English level.
✓ Improve English for work or career growth
✓ Communicate confidently in everyday life
✓ Prepare for college or university
✓ Focus on speaking, grammar, reading, or writing
Who may enroll: Students may include U.S. citizens, permanent residents, professionals, dependents, and visitors staying in the United States for a short time, when permitted by their immigration status.
Not sure which program is right for you? Our admissions team can help you understand your study options. HOFT does not provide legal advice.
Build practical English skills in a friendly, international learning community.
Choose What You Need
Available English Courses
Build a schedule around the skills you want to strengthen. Course availability and times may vary by semester and placement level.
Listening & Speaking
Improve pronunciation, listening comprehension, fluency, and confidence in real conversations.
Grammar
Use English structures more accurately in speaking and writing.
Reading
Strengthen vocabulary, comprehension, and reading strategies.
Writing
Learn to organize ideas and write more clearly for academic, professional, and everyday purposes.
Advanced Electives
Students placed in Level 4 (Upper-Intermediate), Level 5 (Advanced), or above may be able to choose an advanced elective instead of a standard core course or add one to their schedule. Elective topics vary by semester according to student needs and interests.
Weekly Schedule
Build a Schedule Around Your Goals
Part-time students may choose individual courses based on their placement level, goals, and class availability. Core courses meet twice per week on either Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday. Advanced electives may also be offered in the afternoon or evening.
Schedule note: Course levels, elective topics, and evening availability may vary by semester. A student's final schedule is based on placement results, enrollment, and available classes.
Part-Time Study
Choose Your Course Load
Take one course or combine several courses to create a broader English program. Your advisor can help you choose the best option after your placement test.
Each course meets twice per week for 2 hours and 15 minutes per class—4.5 instructional hours per week.
Advanced Electives
Explore Specialized English Courses
Advanced electives give upper-level students the opportunity to focus on professional, academic, cultural, and communication goals. Electives rotate each semester, and HOFT typically offers five to eight options.
Career & University
•. Business English
• University Preparation
• English for Health Sciences
• TOEFL & IELTS Preparation
Speaking & Communication
• Pronunciation & Accent Reduction
•. Debate & Critical Thinking
•. Practical English for Everyday Use
• Modern American Idioms & Slang
Culture & Creative English
• English Through American Music
• Vocabulary Through TED Talks
• Photography & Media Studies
• International Culture & World Mythology
Offerings change each semester. Final elective choices depend on student interest, instructor availability, enrollment, and placement level.
HOFT English Levels
See How HOFT Levels Compare
HOFT offers six instructional levels, from Starter through Advanced. The guide below gives a simple comparison with the CEFR framework. Your final placement is based on HOFT's placement test, not on a self-selected level.
0
Starter
Pre-A1
Begin learning basic words and expressions.
1
Elementary
A1
Communicate in simple everyday situations.
2
Low-Intermediate
A2
Handle familiar, routine conversations.
3
Mid-Intermediate
B1
Communicate independently about work, travel, and daily life.
4
Upper-Intermediate
B2-
Speak with greater fluency and understand complex topics.
5
Advanced
B2+
Use English effectively for academic and professional goals.
Placement Test
Start in the Right Class
After you apply and before classes begin, you will complete a placement test. No special preparation is required.
✓ Determine your current English level
✓ Recommend the right courses
✓ Place you with students at a similar level
The HOFT Experience
Why Study English at HOFT?
Tuition supports your complete classroom experience from placement through program completion.
Experienced Teachers
Learn from professional instructors who understand the needs of adult English learners.
Daily Conversation Club
Practice speaking in a relaxed setting, build confidence, and use English with classmates beyond regular lessons.
Practical English
Develop useful communication skills for work, school, and everyday life.
Student Activities
Join school events, meet classmates, and practice English outside the classroom.
Small Classes
Participate more often and receive personal feedback from your instructor.
International Community
Study in a welcoming environment with students from many countries and backgrounds.
Take the Next Step
Ready to Improve Your English?
Choose the classes that match your goals and become part of HOFT's supportive international community in Austin.
Part-Time English Classes FAQ
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No. This program is intended for students who do not need an F-1 student visa. Because immigration situations differ, contact HOFT if you are unsure which program is appropriate. HOFT cannot provide legal advice.
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Yes. You may choose one or more courses, depending on your goals, placement level, and current course availability.
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Core courses are offered during the day, and some Advanced Electives may be offered in the evening. Exact times vary by semester, level, and enrollment, so review the current schedule or contact admissions before applying.
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Each course meets twice per week for 2 hours and 15 minutes per class, for a total of 4.5 instructional hours per week.
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No. HOFT welcomes students from beginner through advanced levels.
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You complete the placement test after applying and before classes begin. The test helps HOFT place you in the correct level and recommend suitable courses.
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Yes. HOFT students may join the daily Conversation Club to get extra speaking practice in a friendly, informal setting.