Guide to LINC Language Classes for Newcomers in Canada

Learning English or French is one of the most important steps newcomers can take toward successful settlement in Canada. The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program offers free language training to eligible newcomers, helping them develop the communication skills needed for everyday life, employment, and community participation. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to refine your advanced language abilities, LINC classes can help you build the foundation you need to thrive in your new home.

What Is the LINC Program?

LINC stands for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada. It is a federally funded program administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and delivered through hundreds of schools, colleges, community organizations, and settlement agencies across the country. The program provides free English language training (and in some cases, French language training through a parallel program called CLIC — Cours de langue pour les immigrants au Canada) to adult permanent residents and certain other eligible newcomers.

LINC classes are designed specifically for newcomers and cover much more than just grammar and vocabulary. The curriculum integrates settlement topics — such as navigating the healthcare system, understanding Canadian workplace culture, banking, housing, and community services. This makes LINC classes particularly valuable because you learn practical language skills directly relevant to your daily life in Canada. If you are looking for other settlement support tools, our Settlement Checklist can help you stay organized through every step.

Who Is Eligible for LINC Classes?

LINC classes are available to the following groups:

• Permanent residents: This is the primary target group. If you have received your permanent residence in Canada, you are eligible for LINC.
• Convention refugees: Those who have been granted refugee protection in Canada can attend LINC classes.
• Persons in need of protection: Individuals who have been determined to be in need of protection under Canada's immigration law.
• Individuals approved for permanent residence: In some cases, people who have been approved but have not yet received their PR card may begin LINC classes.

Canadian citizens are generally not eligible for LINC (since it is specifically for newcomers), and temporary residents such as international students, visitors, and work permit holders are typically excluded. However, some provinces offer alternative language programs for these groups. You can verify your eligibility through the IRCC language training page.

Understanding Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB)

Before you can enroll in LINC, you need to be assessed to determine your current language proficiency level. Canada uses the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) system for English and the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for French. The CLB scale runs from 1 (beginner) to 12 (advanced), and your assessment will place you in one of the following general categories:

• CLB 1-4 (Stage I — Basic): These levels cover foundational language skills. At CLB 1, you can understand very simple spoken instructions and written texts. By CLB 4, you can participate in simple conversations about familiar everyday topics and read short texts with mostly common vocabulary.
• CLB 5-8 (Stage II — Intermediate): At these levels, you can communicate more effectively in a range of situations. CLB 5 allows you to handle everyday transactions, while CLB 8 means you can participate in moderately complex discussions, write organized paragraphs, and read longer texts on familiar topics.
• CLB 9-12 (Stage III — Advanced): These levels reflect near-fluent communication ability. LINC classes typically go up to CLB 7 or 8, though some programs offer higher levels.

The CLB system is used throughout Canada for immigration purposes, employment, and education. Your Express Entry CRS score, for example, is directly tied to your CLB level. Understanding where you fall on this scale helps you set realistic goals for your language learning journey. Learn more about CLB levels and language test equivalencies on the IRCC website.

How to Get Assessed and Enroll

The enrollment process for LINC involves several steps:

Step 1: Find an Assessment Centre

Language assessments for LINC are conducted at designated centres across Canada. These assessments are free and typically take two to three hours. You will be tested on listening, speaking, reading, and writing. To find an assessment centre near you, contact a local settlement agency or search through the IRCC settlement services tool.

Step 2: Complete the Assessment

The assessment is not a pass-or-fail test. It simply determines your current CLB level so you can be placed in the right class. Bring your permanent resident card or confirmation of permanent residence, a piece of government-issued photo ID, and your immigration documents. The assessors will determine your CLB level for each of the four skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing). If you need help understanding your assessment results or any documents, try our Document Explainer tool.

Step 3: Choose a Program

After your assessment, the centre will provide a referral to a LINC program that matches your level. You can choose from:

• Full-time classes: Typically 20-25 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Ideal if you are not yet working and want to focus on language learning.
• Part-time classes: Typically 6-15 hours per week, often offered in the evenings or on weekends. Suitable for people who are working or have other daytime commitments.
• Online LINC (LINC Home Study): A flexible option for learners who cannot attend in-person classes due to childcare, transportation, health, or other barriers. Online LINC provides one-on-one or small group instruction via video conferencing, with regular assignments and feedback.

Step 4: Start Learning

Most LINC programs run on a continuous intake basis, meaning you do not have to wait for a specific semester start date. Some programs, however, do have scheduled intakes, especially at colleges or school boards. Ask the assessment centre or the program directly about start dates.

What to Expect in a LINC Class

LINC classes are designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and practical. Here is what you can typically expect:

• Small class sizes: Most LINC classes have 15-20 students, allowing for personalized attention from instructors.
• Settlement-themed curriculum: Lessons are organized around real-life topics like visiting the doctor, opening a bank account, finding a job, understanding your rights, and participating in community events. This makes the language learning immediately applicable.
• Multi-level classes: Your classmates may come from dozens of different countries and speak a wide range of first languages. This diversity is one of the strengths of LINC — you practice English (or French) as the common language of communication.
• Regular assessments: Your progress is tracked through portfolio-based assessment. Instructors evaluate your development over time and help you move to the next level when you are ready.
• Computers and technology: Many LINC programs include digital literacy components, teaching you to use email, search the internet, use word processing software, and navigate Canadian websites and online services.
• Field trips and guest speakers: Some programs organize community visits — to libraries, community centres, workplaces, and government offices — so you can practice your language skills in real-world settings.

Building your language skills will also help you with your resume and job applications, which are critical steps in your settlement journey.

Childcare and Transportation Support

One of the biggest barriers to attending language classes is the need for childcare. IRCC recognizes this and funds free childcare (often called "LINC Care for Newcomer Children" or CARE) at many LINC sites. This service is available for children from infancy through school age while their parents attend class. The childcare is provided by trained early childhood educators and operates at the same location as the LINC class. You can learn more about the supports available through the IRCC language class supports page.

Some LINC programs also offer transportation assistance — either through bus tickets or passes, or by being located on public transit routes. When choosing a program, ask about both childcare and transportation support. These supports can make the difference between being able to attend and having to postpone your language learning.

LINC vs Other Language Programs

LINC is not the only language program available in Canada. Here is how it compares to alternatives:

• LINC vs ESL at colleges: College ESL programs often focus more on academic English and may charge tuition. LINC is free and focuses on settlement-oriented communication. If your goal is to enter post-secondary education, college ESL might be more appropriate once you reach CLB 6-7.
• LINC vs community programs: Many settlement agencies and community organizations offer English conversation circles, tutoring, and informal language classes. These are great supplements to LINC but are usually less structured.
• LINC vs private language schools: Private schools charge fees but may offer more flexible scheduling, specialized content (such as business English), and faster-paced learning. Consider private options if you need rapid advancement beyond what LINC provides.
• LINC vs CLIC: CLIC is the French-language equivalent of LINC, available primarily in Quebec and francophone communities outside Quebec. If you want to learn French, CLIC provides the same structured, free instruction.
• LINC vs online apps: While apps like Duolingo or Babbel can supplement your learning, they cannot replace the structured instruction, conversation practice, and settlement integration that LINC provides.

For additional learning tools and support, our AI Chat Assistant is available 24/7 to help you practice English and answer settlement questions.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of LINC

Here are practical tips to maximize your language learning through LINC:

• Attend consistently: Regular attendance is the single biggest factor in language progress. Try to attend every class and arrive on time.
• Practice outside of class: Watch Canadian TV shows and news, listen to podcasts, read local newspapers, and practice speaking English with neighbours, coworkers, and friends.
• Use the settlement content: LINC classes teach real-life skills. When you learn about banking in class, go to the bank and practice. When you learn about healthcare, book an appointment and use the vocabulary. Our Benefits Finder can help you discover additional programs while you practice your reading skills.
• Set goals: Work with your instructor to set specific, measurable language goals — such as reaching CLB 5 by a certain date, or being able to conduct a job interview in English.
• Connect with classmates: Your LINC classmates are going through the same settlement experience as you. Build friendships, study groups, and a support network.
• Ask for help: If you are struggling with a particular skill, speak up. LINC instructors are trained to help newcomers and can provide additional resources or referrals.

The LINC program is one of Canada's most valuable resources for newcomers, offering free, structured, and settlement-focused language training that goes far beyond basic grammar. Whether you attend full-time classes, study part-time, or learn from home through the online program, LINC gives you the language skills and cultural knowledge you need to participate fully in Canadian life. Take the first step by finding an assessment centre near you and booking your free language assessment today. The sooner you start, the sooner you will feel confident communicating, working, and building your new life in Canada.