What is I-BEST?

I-BEST (Integrated Basic Education Skills and Training) Program is for students pursuing Professional Technical certificate and degree programs and are interested in receiving assistance with basic skills in reading, math or English language. I-BEST provides a team-teaching approach where two teachers are present in the classroom: one teacher to focus on the job-training content, and one to focus on academic skills. Highline College offers classes that integrate instruction in reading, writing, speaking, listening, technology and academic skills while learning the content of the I-BEST program. 

Highline College has the following degree pathway programs that offer IBEST classes and programs (see below for more information on each program): 

• Business Technology (BSTEC)
• Early Childhood Education (ECE)
• Legal Studies
• Computer Science
• Business (NEW!)
• Medical Assistant (NEW!)

Programs that were IBEST approved in previous years, and no longer: Hospitality & Tourism (HOST) (Spring 2024), Human Services (Summer’24)

Who is the program for?

I-BEST classes are for immigrants, refugees, permanent residents, and U.S. citizens who are at least 18 years old. I-BEST programs have different entry-level requirements: some programs accept students who completed ESOL Level 3, and some require completion of ESOL 4 or higher. All GED levels are eligible.

Eligibility Requirements

Students must meet the following requirements to be eligible for IBEST funding to pay for IBEST course(s) tuition & fees (NOT textbooks): 

• Previous ESOL student OR have an eligible test score via Student Identification Survey, 
• Pursuing Professional Technical certificate/degree program

Cost of Program

I-BEST classes are tuition-bearing classes, so they do cost money.  Financial support is available for eligible students. Please schedule an appointment with TSC to learn more about funding opportunities and get started with the I-BEST Application.

How to Get Started

1. Meet with the Faculty Advisor for the IBEST program you are interested in. During your appointment, feel free to ask any questions you have about the program. Make sure you have a list of classes they recommend you start with. 
2. Schedule an Appointment with Deborah. You will go over the following during the meeting: 
   1. IBEST Funding Application
   2. Getting Started Applications
   3. Explore Other Funding Options

I-BEST Programs