This study investigated adult participation in English as a second language (ESL) classes, examining the patterns and motivations for adult ESL participation and the differences by various demographic factors. The data were drawn from Adult Education Surveys in National Household Education Surveys (NHES), collected by National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES). Differences in participation patterns and motivations were found among various demographic groups in each survey year. The increase in participation rates over time were also identified among the groups. The motivation including the reasons for participation and supports received from employers were found significantly different among certain demographic groups. Other findgings regarding adult ESL participation were also discussed.