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Free English Classes for Newcomers

Learn English for life in Canada. Free classes for newcomers in British Columbia.

 

Improve your English. Build confidence. Connect with your community.

 

New to Canada? Start here.

Our staff speak many languages and can help you get started.
We can also help you book your English assessment.

Adult students learning English in a LINC classroom in British Columbia

Eligibility

Who Can Register Free LINC English Classes?

You can join if you:

  • Live in British Columbia (BC)

  • Are a permanent resident of Canada*

  • Are 17 years old or older

*Some restrictions apply to economic immigrants

Before joining a class, you will need to take a free English assessment to find your class level.

What documents do I need?

    • A valid Permanent Resident Card (check the expiry date)

    • Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688)

    • Record of Landing (IMM 1000 – issued before June 2002)

    • Notice of Decision from the Refugee Protection Division confirming refugee status

    • A letter from IRCC showing you can stay in Canada while your permanent residence is being processed (Approval in Principle)

    *Some restrictions apply to economic immigrants

    If you are not sure about your documents, our staff can help you check.

How to Join LINC English Classes

Our staff will contact you after you apply and help you book the assessment.

Newcomer applying online for LINC English classes in BC

1. Apply Online

Fill out a short form.

Adult learners completing an English assessment for LINC classes

2. Take an English Assessment

We help you book it.

Adult newcomers learning English in a LINC classroom at a S.U.C.C.E.S.S. centre

3. Start Learning

Join your English class!

Start your free English classes!

Metro Vancouver bridge and SkyTrain with mountains, representing life in British Columbia

​About S.U.C.C.E.S.S. & ISIP

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. is a non-profit organization that helps immigrants settle and build their lives in Canada. Through the Immigrant Settlement and Integration Program (ISIP), we provide language training, settlement support, and community services.

Adult newcomers discussing and learning together in a LINC English class

About the LINC Program

The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program is a FREE English program funded by the Government of Canada. In LINC classes, you will learn English for everyday life in Canada, including Housing, Work and jobs, Education, Health care, Banking, Community life, and many more.

LINC Courses

Adult newcomer learning English online from home using a laptop

LINC English Class Levels

We offer classes for early learners:
LINC Literacy to LINC 4

Our staff can help you find the class that best fits your needs.

LINC Class Format

  • In-person

  • Online

  • Hybrid (online and in-person)

LINC Class Schedule

Class schedules may be different by location.

*Some locations also offer childcare for children 18 months to 5 years old.

Find the Right English Level for You

Free English Assessment for LINC Classes

Before joining a class, you must take a free English test.

​

This is not a pass or fail test. It helps us find the right class for you.

​

Our staff can help you book an assessment.

Assessment centres are available in:

FAQ

Settlement staff helping a newcomer apply for English classes in BC

Common questions about joining LINC English Classes.

  • Yes. LINC classes are funded by the Government of Canada.

  • Yes. You must take an English assessment before registering. We can help.

  • Classes are available from Literacy to LINC 4.

  • Some locations offer childcare for children 18 months to 5 years old.

  • Some classes offer hybrid learning (online and in-person).

  • Classes usually run several months depending on your level.

  • No. LINC classes are FREE.

  • The assessment usually takes about 1–2 hours.

  • Yes. You can bring a friend or family member if you need help.

  • Our staff speak many languages and can help you with the LINC program. We offer support in: Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), English, Farsi/Dari, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Pashto, Punjabi, Spanish, Tigrinya, and Vietnamese.

Need Help?

Call, email, or visit a S.U.C.C.E.S.S. service centre near you.

 

You can send us an e-mail at: isiplinc@success.bc.ca

 

Our staff speak many languages and are ready to help you get started.

  • Pender Service Centre (Head Office)
    28 West Pender Street,
    Vancouver, BC  V6B 1R6
    604-684-1628

  • #220-7000 Minoru Boulevard,
    Richmond, BC  V6Y 3Z5
    604-279-7180

  • #100 – 15117 101 Avenue,
    Surrey, BC  V3R 8P7
    604-588-6869

  • 200-15400 Croydon Drive,
    Surrey, BC  V3Z 1K1
    604-495-8970

  • #210 – 10504 100th Avenue,
    Fort St. John, BC  V1J 1Z2
    250-785-5323

LINC classes are FREE and funded by the Government of Canada.

Government of Canada logo for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
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