English Language Training Options For Adult Learners
English as a Second Language – ESL Literacy to Advanced Levels (Free)
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
Federally-funded ESL program focusing on speaking, listening, reading and writing. LINC Literacy to LINC 7 offered through school boards, community agencies, and colleges. LINC Home Study program is the LINC online option. Funded by CIC. - English as a Second Language (non-credit)
ESL classes ranging from ESL Literacy to CLB Level 8. Offered through school boards; funded by MCI. Speaking, listening, reading and writing are the focus. Classes also offered for citizenship preparation, TOEFL/TWE preparation. Classes may also include ESL for computers, for sewing, ESL for seniors, and more. Check with each school board about the range of programs. Funded by MCI. - English as a Second Language (credit)
Adults whose first language is other than English can also earn English as a Second Language (ESL) credit courses or English Literacy Development (ELD) credit courses. Delivered by school boards. Funded by EDU. - ESL (credit and non-credit) – Online/Distance Education through the
Independent Learning Centre (ILC)
High school credit courses and non-credit courses earned online or via correspondence through the Independent Learning Centre (ILC) – (age 18+) Funded by EDU or MCI. - Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) Program
Reading, writing, computer and Essential Skills upgrading for learners with a minimum CLB level 6 proficiency in speaking and listening. Reading and writing levels are not as strong. Funded by MTCU.
English Language Training with a Workplace Focus:
- Enhanced Language Training (ELT)
Provides newcomers with higher levels of language training. The focus is on job-specific language training. Some ELT programs have bridge-to-work assistance, mentorship, and other employment help. Minimum language level for entry – CLB 7-10. Funded by CIC. Offered through employers, educational institutions, non-governmental organization, communities and organizations helping newcomers. (Free) - Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT)
OSLT courses help newcomers to Canada improve their work-oriented English. They focus on the following sectors: Business; Health Care; Child and Youth Worker; and Technology. Minimum language level for entry - CLB Level 6-8). Funded by CIC. (Free) - Ontario Bridge Training
Helps Internationally Trained Individuals (ITIs) get their license or certificate in their profession or trade in order to enter the Ontario labour market. Ontario Bridge Training is delivered through colleges, universities, community agencies, and professional bodies. Funded by MCI. ($$$ - Those eligible may receive bursaries of up to $5,000 through the Ontario Bridging Participant Assistance Program). - Specialized Language Training
Job-specific language training offered in two ways – Language Training for the Workplace; Language Training in the Workplace. CLB Level as established by the program. (Free)
English for Academic Purposes ($$$):
Delivered in colleges and universities; private language schools.
NOTE: FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ON THE ABOVE PROGRAMS, PLEASE CONSULT THE ‘ENGLISH' SECTION UNDER THE PATHWAYS TAB.