Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
COSTI’s Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program helps newcomers to Canada to learn the English language skills that are essential to their social, economic and cultural integration into Canadian society. This program provides students with a supportive environment in which they can learn a new language and explore different cultures.
This program is offered at different levels, from Literacy Level to Level 6. Classes are available full-time in Toronto and York Region. Part-time classes are available in York Region as well.
The LINC program is delivered by certified instructors. The LINC curriculum used by instructors has been developed based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks. Prior to registering for classes, prospective students must be assessed for eligibility and language level by the LINC Assessment Centres.
- To register for services at our Richmond Hill location click here.
- To register for services at our Markham North location click here.
- To register for services at our Vaughan location click here.
- To register for services at our Newmarket location click here.
- To register for services at our North York location click here.
Services Available
Components of this program include:
- English communication skills developed through reading, speaking, listening, grammar, and writing exercises;
- Computer aided instruction;
- Cultural excursions to places of interest; guest speakers from the Health Department, Police Services, and other community support services;
- Assistance in accessing resources in the community such as health clinics; retail and educational sites; and business and recreational facilities;
- Child minding for toddler and preschool children; and
- Transportation allowance (for eligible students).
Who is Eligible
Services are available to landed immigrants and convention refugees. Students must be 18 years of age or older.
Times
Monday - Friday: 9:00 am to 2:30 pm
Contact Details for:
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
Please refer to locations below.
Phone: Please refer to contact information below.
This Program is Located at:
Welcome Centre Immigrant Services, 8400 Woodbine Avenue, Suites 102-103
Markham, ON L3R 4N7
Phone: 289.846.3597, 289.846.3645 | esltmarkham@costi.org
Welcome Centre Immigrant Services,16655 Yonge Street, Unit 26
Newmarket, ON L3X 1V6
Phone: 289.841.3032 | esltnewmarket@costi.org
Sheridan Mall, 1700 Wilson Avenue, Suite 206
Toronto, ON M3L 1B2
Phone: 416.244.9980 | linctoronto@costi.org
Welcome Centre Immigrant Services, 9325 Yonge Street , Unit 31A
Richmond Hill, ON L4C 0A8
Phone: 289.842.3151, 289.842.3124 | eltyorkregion@costi.org
Welcome Centre Immigrant Services, 9100 Jane Street, Building H, Unit 56-67
Vaughan, ON L4K 0A4
Phone: 416.238.1025, 416-238-1033 | esltvaughan@costi.org
COSTI's Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Related Resources
View Workshop Calendars
Language and Settlement Issues
Feelings of isolation and feeling like you don’t belong
Dealing with conflicting work and family responsibilities while trying to attend English language studies
Accessing outreach programs, programs to help you understand the Canadian culture
Getting in touch with community groups that share your language or culture
Accessing social services
Enrolling your children in school
Securing housing
Finding a job
Cultural Excursions, Reading and Video Resources
School Board Contacts
Toronto District School Board
263 McCaul Street, Toronto
Tel: 416.397.3000
Toronto Catholic District School Board
80 Sheppard Avenue East, North York
Tel: 416.222.8282
York Region District School Board
60 Wellington Street West, Aurora
Tel: 416.969.8131
York Catholic District School Board
320 Bloomington Road West, Aurora
Tel: 416.221.5050 or Toll-free 1.800.263.2075
What's the difference between ESL and LINC?
ESL (English as a Second Language) is funded by the Provincial Government. Eligibility is not determined by resident status. The classes are open to permanent residents of Canada, convention refugees, refugee claimants who have a Study Permit issued by CIC, and Canadian Citizens. Tourists may also attend classes for a fee.LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) is funded by the Federal Government under Citizenship and Immigration. LINC classes are intended for permanent residents, convention refugees and newcomers who are accepted as permanent residents with confirmation from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. The classes are free of charge and have on-site childminding for children 18 months to 5 years old at no cost.If you are eligible for government-funded English classes, you have to take a language test to determine your English language level. You must take the test at an authorized language assessment centre. It is free to take the test. You need to make an appointment before you go. To set up an appointment for testing, please contact:
Coordinated Language Assessment and Referral Services (CLARS) Centres:
- Toronto: 416-925-5462, language.test@YMCAGTA.ORG
- York Region, Simcoe County, Durham Region: 1-855-330-8655 Ext.5013, ysla@tcet.com
- Peel Region, Halton Region, Dufferin County: 905-949-0049 Ext.1369, lac@tcet.com
For more information about English as a Second Language classes contact the Toronto Catholic District School Board at http://www.tcdsb.on.ca or call 416-222-8282 or the Toronto District School Board at http://www.tdsb.on.ca/programs/continuing_education/esl/ or call 416-338-4000.
