What is I-BEST?
The I-BEST (Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training) Program supports students pursuing Professional Technical certificates or degree programs by providing assistance with basic skills in reading, math, or English language. I-BEST uses a team-teaching approach, with one teacher focusing on job-training content and the other on academic skills. At Highline College, I-BEST classes integrate instruction in reading, writing, speaking, listening, technology, and academic skills with the program’s specific content.
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
- 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.
- Schedule an Appointment with Deborah. You will go over the following during the meeting:
- IBEST Funding Application
- Getting Started Applications
- Explore Other Funding Options
I-BEST Programs
How to get started?
If you are a student now, tell your teacher you’re interested in I-BEST.
If you are a new student, complete the new student orientation.
(Students who have been out of our program for more than 6 months, or students new to Washington state, are considered new students.)
Connect with us
Contact: Deborah Tugaga, Program Manager, Transition Success Center (TSC)
Email: dtugaga@highline.edu
Phone: (206)592-4439
For current students who are interested in I-BEST, talk to your current ESOL and GED instructor.
Para las clases de inglés como segundo idioma o información sobre Highline College marque (206)592-4439
If you have a disability that requires special accommodations, contact Access Services after your assessment appointment either in person at building 99 or by phone at (206)592-4439.