ESOL Students— How do you know you are ready for the Transition program? Can you receive a Transition scholarship? This page will answer those questions.

The Transition Program takes into consideration the following criteria when awarding scholarships to ESOL Transition students.

1. Attendance : Ten weeks of attendance in a Rio Salado ESOL class and a score of 550 on the TABE and 55 on the CELSA. The student should also have a high school diploma from his/her country or a GED from the U.S.
2. Choice of classes: Scholarship money is intended to be used for academic classes to improve reading, writing or math skills. It is not to be used for personal interests, physical fitness classes or hobbies.
3. Length of stay in the Phoenix area: Scholarships are given to students making their homes in the Phoenix area. It is not intended for visitors staying in Phoenix for the summer or visiting friends or relatives.
4. Household income: We carefully consider each student’s situation. All academically capable students are eligible to participate in the program, but we try to use the scholarship to help students who really have a financial need.
5. Economic stability: We recommend that students have a stable economic situation and can take care of their housing and other basic needs before beginning a college class. Your chances of completing a college class will be better if you do not have to change your work schedule or housing arrangements frequently.
6. Participation and motivation: Students who attend the Transition writing workshop or Independent Study Program have a better chance of earning a scholarship. This will prove your desire to study hard and complete classes. You will also understand the expectations better after completing a workshop.
7. ESL030: Students who have not scored a 55 on the CELSA but wish to begin college classes may enroll in ESL030 (third level). Students must pay for this class with their own money. However, if you complete this class with a B, you will be eligible for the Transition scholarship, which will pay for your next two classes.