How to Learn English or French for Free in Canada
13 Mar 2025
Newcomers can find many opportunities to learn English or French for free in Canada through government-funded programs. These programs ensure permanent residents and protected persons can access essential language training at no cost. Whether you are a Canadian permanent resident, a protected person, or a temporary worker or student, there’s no better time to improve your English or French speaking skills by taking language training here.
This guide provides detailed information on how to learn English or French for free in Canada, including eligibility requirements and what to do if you move to a new city.
Who is Eligible for Free Language Classes in Canada?
To enroll in free language classes funded by the Government of Canada, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. These programs are primarily designed for:
- Canadian Permanent Residents: If you hold permanent resident status, you can take government-funded English or French classes.
- Protected Persons: Individuals with refugee or protected person status can also access these programs.
Children and youth learn English and French in Canada through the public school system, so these programs are tailored for adults. You may not qualify for federal programs as a temporary worker, international student, or new citizen. However, many provinces and territories offer language training initiatives for temporary residents. Check with your local government or a newcomer-serving organization to explore alternative options.
Government-Funded Language Training Programs
The federal government offers two main language training programs for eligible newcomers:
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) provides free English classes to permanent residents and protected persons. LINC courses are available at various levels and often include additional support services such as childcare and transportation assistance.
Cours de Langue Pour Les Immigrants au Canada
Similar to LINC, Cours de Langue Pour Les Immigrants au Canada (CLIC) offers free French language classes for eligible newcomers. Both programs help immigrants improve their language skills for daily life and employment.
Job-Specific Language Training
Some government-funded programs offer job-specific language courses. These advanced courses help newcomers improve their language skills for specific industries like healthcare, business, and engineering.
How to Enroll in Free Language Classes
To enroll in government-funded language classes, follow these steps:
Visit a Language Assessment Centre
Before enrolling, your language skills must be assessed. Locate a language assessment center in your city that will evaluate your proficiency in English or French in Canada and recommend the appropriate level of instruction.
Contact a Newcomer-Serving Organization
These organizations can guide you to the nearest assessment center and provide information about available programs. They also offer additional settlement services to help you integrate into Canadian society.
Choose a Program
Based on your assessment results, you can enroll in a program that suits your schedule and language goals. Classes with daytime, evening, or weekend session options are available at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.
What If I Move to a New Canadian City?
If you are already enrolled in language classes but need to relocate, you can continue your studies in your new city. Here’s how:
- Inform Your Current Language Provider: Notify your current language training provider about your move.
- Visit a Language Assessment Centre in Your New City: Even if you were previously assessed, you may need to visit a new assessment center for a referral to local programs.
- Contact a Newcomer-Serving Organization These organizations can help you find language classes and assessment centers in your new location.
Can Temporary Residents Take Free Language Classes?
If you are in Canada on a temporary work or study permit, you are not eligible for federal language programs. However, many Canadian provinces and territories offer language training initiatives for temporary residents. For example:
- Ontario: The province provides language classes through the Adult Non-Credit Language Training Program.
- British Columbia: The English Language Services for Adults (ELSA) program offers free English classes to eligible temporary residents.
- Quebec: French language courses are available through the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).
Contact your provincial or territorial government or a local newcomer-serving organization to learn about options.
Provincial and Territorial Language Programs
Besides federally funded programs, many Canadian provinces and territories provide language training initiatives. These programs may serve broader groups, including:
- Temporary foreign workers,
- International students, and
- New Canadian citizens.
These programs may have different eligibility criteria and focus areas. For example:
- Ontario: Offers free English and French classes through the Adult Non-Credit Language Training Program.
- British Columbia: Provides English language training through community colleges and immigrant-serving organizations.
- Quebec: Offers French-language training programs for immigrants, with financial assistance in some cases.
- Alberta: Provides free or low-cost English as a Second Language (ESL) courses through educational institutions.
To find out what programs are available in your area, visit your province’s official website or contact a local newcomer support organization.
Additional Free Language Learning Resources
Besides formal classes, there are many ways to practice English or French for free in Canada:
Public Libraries
Public libraries serve as valuable hubs for language learners, providing free resources. They offer access to physical materials like language-learning books, audio resources, and digital tools such as online courses and language-learning apps.
Community Centres and Churches
Community centers and churches often provide informal language learning opportunities, particularly conversation circles. These gatherings offer a relaxed and welcoming environment for individuals to practice their English and French Canadian speaking skills.
Online Learning Platforms
There are several free online platforms where newcomers can learn and practice English or French, such as:
- Duolingo: Offers interactive lessons in both languages.
- BBC Languages: Provides grammar lessons and listening exercises.
- Government of Canada Websites: Some provinces have free online learning tools.
Language Exchange Programs
Many communities have language exchange meetups where you can practice English or French with native speakers while helping them learn your language. Websites like Meetup.com and ConversationExchange.com can help you find these opportunities.
FAQs
Are There Free Conversation Circles or Language Exchange Programs?
Yes, many community organizations and religious groups offer free English and French Canadian conversation circles. These informal sessions provide a relaxed environment to practice speaking skills and build confidence.
Are There Free Language Resources Available at Public Libraries?
Public libraries are excellent resources for free language learning materials. They often provide access to books, audio materials, online courses, and language-learning apps. Many libraries also host conversation groups, creating opportunities for practical language practice.
Do These Classes Offer Childcare or Transportation Assistance?
Whether or not childcare or transportation assistance is available varies depending on the specific language program and location. Some government-funded programs and community organizations may offer these services to help remove barriers to participation.
How Long Can I Take Free Language Classes?
Generally, if you meet the eligibility requirements, you can take government-funded language classes for as long as you need to improve your skills. There is generally no strict time limit, allowing learners to progress at their own pace. It is always best to double-check with the language class providers in your area, as some programs may have specific rules.
