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What kind of support does the program provide?
LINC offers flexible schedules with classes in the daytime, evening, and online (from anywhere in BC). You may be able to get a free device on loan. If needed, a digital coach can help you with your online studies.
Classes are available full-time or part-time, in mornings, afternoons, evenings, with online or hybrid options. Regular attendance is crucial for progress.
LINC offers levels from CLB 1 to 6, each designed for specific language learning goals:
• Improve English language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
• Prepare for daily life in Canada, including accessing services, navigating systems, and participating in the community.
• Promote civic engagement and inclusion, including knowledge of Canadian laws, rights, responsibilities, and cultural norms.
Preschool: Parents can focus on their studies while their children learn English and social skills. We offer licensed preschool programs in Vancouver (Victoria Drive) and Richmond for children aged 30 months to five years.
Before enrolling, please consult with our office to select the best class option that suits your work or class schedule.
FREE American Sign Language (ASL) LINC class
Are you a permanent resident in BC who is 17 years or older and deaf or hard of hearing? ISSofBC offers free in-person English language classes taught in ASL to help you improve your reading and writing skills while building your confidence to succeed in your new community.
Classes are led by deaf instructors fluent in ASL, with advanced training in linguistics and ASLPI Level 4+ certification. You’ll learn in a culturally supportive and linguistically accessible environment.
- Location: In-person at ISSofBC Vancouver
- Schedule: Monday to Thursday, 6:15 PM – 8:15 PM
- Program Duration: Ongoing – students can join anytime!
- Questions? Email: linc.vancouver@issbc.org
Learn free English Skills
Improve your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in English.
Discover your English level
- All LINC students need a language assessment to start classes.
- Our team can assist you in scheduling the assessment.
- Visit our resources page for detailed information on completing the assessment.
- Obtain your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level after the assessment.
Find answers to common questions about the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program.
Please find below the answers to our team’s most common questions about the LINC program. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our team directly using the information in the location section below!
To join LINC, you must schedule a language assessment at a LINC assessment centre.
For detailed information on completing a language assessment at a registered centre and obtaining your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level, visit our section Contact us/Apply Now at LINC – Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 1 to 6 | Learn English | Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC)
Yes, you receive a certificate after you complete a CLB level indicating your English proficiency level based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB). If you reach CLB 4 or higher in Listening & Speaking, you can use your LINC certificate for citizenship applications.
To join LINC, please complete a language assessment at a registered centre. Our team is happy to guide you, and don’t forget to bring the completed LINC application form.
Assessment Centres:
– Vancouver: 2525 Commercial Drive | Tel: 604-876-5756
– If you live in other areas, you can contact Options Language Assessment & Referral Centre
– Squamish, Sea to Sky, Sunshine Coast: Call 604-567-4490 or visit the ISSofBC office.
Once you complete your assessment, bring your documents to register. For more information, kindly visit the Assessment Information Resources Page.
Depending on demand and capacity, there might be a waiting list. Ask us about available spots and consider signing up early. You can also check our Language and Careers College, which offers affordable English classes.
The language programs in Squamish, Sea to Sky, and the Sunshine Coast support your English learning and community integration. We offer LINC and BC NSP language programs. To join, you must be a PR (17+), a naturalized Canadian citizen seeking employment, or a work permit holder (1+ year).
Please schedule a language assessment at a registered centre. You can complete it online or in person. For more information, kindly visit the Assessment Information Resources Page LINC – Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 1 to 6 | Learn English | Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC)
To join the language programs (LINC or BC NSP), please schedule a language assessment at a registered centre. Residents of Squamish, Sea to Sky, and Sunshine Coast can complete the assessment online or in-person. For assistance, call 604-567-4490 or visit the ISSofBC Squamish office at 101 – 38085 Second Avenue, Squamish. After your assessment, you will be able to register for classes, if you qualify.
For more details, kindly visit the Assessment Information Resources Page at LINC – Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 1 to 6 | Learn English | Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC)
By joining the language programs (LINC or BC NSP), you’ll improve your English language skills, better understand Canadian culture, and connect with a supportive community. You can choose between in-person and online classes, offering flexibility to fit your schedule.
Locations Available
Languages Available
We provide services in these languages:
English
Additional languages available upon request
Contact Us/Apply Now
Before you join a English language class with LINC you must first complete a language assessment test. Follow the instructions on how to book a test. Once you have the results, you can register your interest at your local LINC class with the details below:
Other locations in BC (Online)
Vancouver
- linc.vancouver@issbc.org
- (778) 372 – 6596
Surrey
- linc.surrey@issbc.org
- 604-590-4021
New Westminster
- linc.nwest@issbc.org
- (604) 522 – 5902
Coquitlam
- linc.tricities@issbc.org
- (604) 942- 1777
Richmond
- lin.richmond@issbc.org
- (604) 233 – 7077
Maple Ridge
- linc.mr@issbc.org
- (778) 372 – 6567
Sea to Sky and Sunshine Coast (Squamish)
- linc.squamish@issbc.org
- (604) 567- 4490