Learn English
We offer free English classes through our Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program at Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) levels 1-4 for eligible newcomers.
If you are looking for English classes at CLB level 5 and above, you can continue your learning journey with affordable, high-quality English classes at our Language and Career College (LCC) — recommended by 99% of students!
📍 LCC is moving: Starting March 16, 2026, classes will be held at Vancouver Welcome Centre, 2610 Victoria Dr, Vancouver.
How to learn English
Learning English is very important in British Columbia (BC) for all aspects of daily life, including finding work, making friends, shopping, signing up for services, and explaining challenges.
We offer two ways to learn:
1. Our Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program provides free English classes for eligible participants.
2. Recommended by 99% of students, our Language and Career College (LCC) provides affordable English classes.
- To register for LINC, complete a language assessment and bring your documents to our office. For full details, visit: LINC.
- To register for English classes at LCC, please visit: https://lcc.issbc.org/
- Pre-school: Parents participating in the LINC program can focus on their studies while their children learn English and social skills. We offer licensed pre-school programs in Vancouver (Victoria Drive) for children aged 30 months to 5 years.
Find your program
Find the right program to settle and start your life in BC.
-
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
A free program that supports you to learn the English language, no matter your level. This training supports you in integrating and navigating daily life in British Columbia.
Learn MoreFlexible scheduling: full-time, part-time, in-person, online, and hybrid options
Available at several locations including Surrey, Coquitlam and Vancouver
Licensed preschool programs for children aged 30 months to 5 years
Parents can focus on studies while children learn English and social skills
-
Language and Career College (LCC)
LCC offers high-quality and flexible English language classes and professional diplomas through co-op programs for newcomers in British Columbia.
Learn MoreAffordable and flexible learning options
Gain skills for the Canadian job market
Learn English fast
Make friends with other newcomers!
-
BC SAFE HAVEN
BC SAFE HAVEN offers you free support as a refugee claimant or asylum seekers, helping with settlement, English, job search, and mental health referrals.
Learn MoreSupport for refugee claimants and asylum seekers
Refugee claim support
Settling in your new community
English language training
-
BC Newcomer Services Program (BC NSP)
BC NSP supports you in settling into your new community in British Columbia with services like community orientation, job search support, and career counselling.
Learn MoreSettlement services
Practise in English skills
Work and career support
Start building your life in BC!
-
American Sign Language (ASL) LINC classes
A free program that teaches American Sign Language (ASL) to newcomers with little or no English. This training supports you in communicating, connecting with your community, and navigating daily life in British Columbia.
Learn MoreFree in-person ASL classes in the evenings.
Available at the Vancouver (Victoria Dr) location.
ASL teachers with ASLPI Level 4+ certification.
Learn alongside other newcomers who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Where to Find Us
We have several locations across BC. View our locations to find addresses, maps, directions, and contact information.
Explore Locations