English is the most widely spoken language in the world. Whether you are a beginning or advanced student of English, your options for improving your language skills are numerous. Here are some hints to get you started on learning English in the United States.

Learning English

Contact your local university or community college.
Most community colleges have English as a Second Language (ESL) programs ranging in skill level from beginning to advanced English learners.
Request an ESL course offering via the phone or computer. The classes are usually smaller and the best part is you will be taking classes with other students from all over the world who are experiencing the same trials and tribulations of learning a new language.
If you are a new student, you may be required to take an initial assessment to determine your language placement. Courses studied will include: writing, pronunciation, listening, speaking and reading.

Check out private language schools in your area, such as Berlitz.
Language schools can offer various levels of English instruction, including business and corporate language lessons for foreign-born professionals.

The fees are generally a bit higher than those of community colleges, but tend to be more customized toward the English learner. If your job requires you to take short-term intensive English courses, language schools are a good option.

Hire a private tutor.
You can find private tutors through language schools or listings at community colleges, or by doing an Internet search for private instructors in your area.

Private tutors provide one-on-one individualized English instruction based on your need and skill level. Also, private instructors are more adaptable to your schedule.

Visit your local library for ESL courses. Some local libraries offer free ESL classes for patrons.
The classes are generally very small and focus on providing conversational English instruction to students whose skill levels range from beginner to advanced.
Contact your local library for class listings or visit your public library homepage to view the current ESL course offerings.