LINC Near Me: What It Is, Who Qualifies and How to Find Classes in Ontario (2026)
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What Is LINC? (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada)
LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) is a free, IRCC-funded English program for adult permanent residents and protected persons, offered at school boards and community agencies across Ontario.
The program is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). In Ontario, school boards and community agencies deliver it. You can see how one large board describes the program on the Toronto District School Board LINC page, and Peel's LINC program page shows a similar setup.
Here's the short definition list:
- Who it's for: adult permanent residents and protected persons (convention refugees). Canadian citizens aren't eligible.
- Cost: free. There's no tuition.
- Structure: classes are organized by Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) levels, so you study with people at your level.
When people search "LINC near me," they usually mean finding an IRCC-funded provider close to home. If travel is a barrier, an online LINC class may work better. If you're curious about how distance-learning formats work, that guide explains the basics.
How LINC Works and How to Find Classes Near You in Ontario
To find LINC near you, book an assessment, get your CLB level, then enrol with an IRCC-funded provider in your area or online. Here's the process step by step.
Step 1: Confirm your eligibility
You'll need permanent resident status or protected person status. Have your documents ready, because providers confirm your status at registration.
Step 2: Book a language assessment
Ontario has assessment centres that place newcomers in LINC. Staff measure your listening, speaking, reading and writing, then assign a CLB level from 1 to 8. The assessment is free, and the result decides which class you'll join.
Step 3: Join a class or a waitlist
Wait times vary by region and level. Ask each provider about its current waitlist. If providers allow it, enrol with more than one so you don't lose time.
Step 4: Choose a delivery format
Most providers offer in-person, online or blended classes. Many also have flexible schedules, and some offer childcare, though it varies by site. Ask each provider what's available. If you're unsure which format suits you, this guide on online vs in-person learning walks through the trade-offs.
Where to look for classes
Start with the IRCC service provider finder. Then check regional school boards and community agencies. These are good places to begin:
- Toronto: the Toronto Catholic District School Board's ESL and LINC page
- York Region: the York Region District School Board's LINC page
- Peel: the Peel LINC page
- Community agencies: for example, Newcomer Youth and Community Hub's LINC program
- Other regions: Ottawa, Hamilton and Windsor school boards also run LINC
How long does progress take?
There's no single answer. Progress depends on your starting level, how often you attend and how much you practise outside class. You move up a level as your benchmarks improve.
ESL vs LINC
The two aren't the same. This table compares them.
| Feature | LINC | ESL |
|---|---|---|
| Funding | Federal (IRCC) | Varies |
| Cost | Free | May charge fees |
| Who can join | Eligible newcomers only | Wider range of learners |
| Placement | CLB level | Varies by provider |
If you don't qualify for LINC, you still have options. Citizens, international students and temporary residents can join ESL programs at Pathways in Ontario.
What comes after LINC
CLB scores map to CELPIP results, and CELPIP is accepted for permanent residence and citizenship language requirements. Pathways offers certified CELPIP testing. If you want to continue your studies, academic upgrading is a natural next step toward high school credits.
You can also supplement your classes. A list of free online career training courses is a low-cost way to build skills and practise English at the same time.
LINC Near Me: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ESL and LINC?
LINC is a free, IRCC-funded program for adult permanent residents and protected persons, with classes placed by CLB level. ESL is a broader term for English-as-a-second-language instruction. It's open to more learners, including citizens, international students and temporary residents, and may charge fees. Pathways offers ESL for learners who don't qualify for LINC.
Is there a LINC assessment test?
Yes. Newcomers complete a free placement assessment that assigns a CLB level before joining classes. It measures listening, speaking, reading and writing. Contact your local centre or provider to book, and bring your immigration documents.
Who is eligible for LINC?
Adult permanent residents and protected persons are eligible. Canadian citizens are generally not eligible, and temporary residents usually aren't either. Providers confirm your status at registration. The Toronto Catholic District School Board explains its own requirements for learners.
Is LINC free?
Yes. LINC is funded by IRCC, so there's no tuition. Some providers offer support such as childcare, so ask about it when you register. If you're weighing other study costs, our guide to mature student grants in Ontario covers funding for adult learners.
How do I find LINC classes near me in Ontario?
Use the IRCC service provider finder, or check your local school board or community agency in Toronto, Peel, York, Ottawa, Hamilton, Windsor or Waterloo Region. Many providers also offer online classes. Peel's LINC page is a good example of what a provider page includes.
If you're in Kitchener-Waterloo, Pathways serves learners across Ontario and is a certified testing centre. Our guide to the English test for citizenship in Kitchener-Waterloo shows where to take it locally.
Can I take LINC online?
Yes. Many Ontario providers offer virtual or blended LINC classes. You'll need a reliable internet connection and a device. Ask providers about schedules and tech support.
How long does LINC take and is there a waitlist?
Length depends on your starting CLB level, attendance and progress. Waitlists vary by city and level, so ask providers about current wait times and join more than one list if allowed.
Is childcare available during LINC classes?
Some providers offer childcare or can refer you to it, but availability varies by location. Ask when you book your assessment.
What can I do after LINC to prove my English level?
Many newcomers take CELPIP to show their level for immigration or citizenship, and use academic upgrading for further study. Pathways is a certified CELPIP testing centre, and you can read about CELPIP testing at Pathways before you book. Our CELPIP General preparation guide helps you get ready.
If you need support on test day, Pathways handles accommodation requests. Here's a step-by-step guide to requesting CELPIP test accommodations. We also host a Pearson VUE testing centre if you need other exams.
Not sure which path fits? You can contact Pathways to ask about ESL, testing and upgrading options.
