An interactive guide to finding subsidized courses and how Berlitz Canada can support your journey to language fluency
Author:
Berlitz
Unlock your potential with language training in Canada
Are you new to Canada or looking to improve your English or French for work or daily life?
You're in luck! There are several government-funded language training programs available across the country—many of them free or low-cost. These programs are designed to help you integrate into your community, prepare for employment, and even validate your professional credentials.
Key programs like LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada), CLIC (Cours de langue pour les immigrants au Canada), OSLT (Occupation-specific Language Training), and ELT (Enhanced Language Training) offer valuable support tailored to various needs.
Berlitz Canada is here to guide you every step of the way—from your initial language assessment to personalized training that complements your goals. Let us help you navigate your language learning journey and achieve your aspirations in Canada.
LINC/CLIC program
Free English (LINC) and French (CLIC) classes for newcomers, funded by the Government of Canada, for daily life skills.
- What it is: Free English (LINC) and French (CLIC) programs by IRCC, focusing on language for daily life in Canada.
- Eligibility: Adult permanent residents and protected persons in Canada.
- Content: The content of the programs covers language skills ranging from basic to advanced levels, as well as Canadian culture and employment topics. Some programs offer childcare/transport assistance.
- How to access: Undergo a language assessment at a designated Language Assessment Centre in your city to determine your level and enroll.
OSLT & ELT programs
Occupation-specific language training for internationally trained professionals to develop communication skills for their specific field.
- What it is: Provincial programs (e.g., in Ontario) for job-specific language, focusing on workplace communication.
- Eligibility: Aimed at Internationally Trained Professionals (ITPs) and skilled immigrants needing job-specific language for licensing or employment.
- Content: Practical workplace communication, career planning, and networking opportunities.
- How to access: Offered through colleges, school boards, and immigrant-serving organizations. Eligibility varies by province and occupation.
Québec government French courses
Free French courses from the Québec government, with potential financial aid for eligible residents.
- What it is: Free French language courses offered by the Government of Québec to residents and prospective settlers, promoting French language use.
- Eligibility: For individuals 16+ living in or planning to settle in Québec.
- Content: Includes full-time, part-time, online, and specialized courses.
- Financial aid: Eligible full-time students may receive weekly allowances and assistance for childcare or transportation.
- How to access: Apply directly via Québec government immigration/education portals.
Canada Job Grant
A grant for employers to train new or existing employees, which can cover a significant portion of language training costs.
- What it is: The Canada Job Grant is a federal-provincial/territorial initiative that helps employers train new or existing employees for available jobs. While not exclusively for language training, it can cover a significant portion of the costs for language courses if they are part of an approved training plan to enhance an employee's skills for a specific role.
- Eligibility: Primarily for employers (including small, medium, and large businesses and nonprofit organizations) who want to invest in their workforce's skills development. Employees must typically be residents of the province where the training takes place.
- Funding: Can cover up to two-thirds (or more, depending on the province and employer size) of eligible training costs, up to a maximum of $10,000 per trainee.
- How to access: Employers apply for this grant through their respective provincial or territorial government bodies.
How Berlitz Canada can support your journey
Initial language assessment
Many programs require an official assessment. Berlitz offers comprehensive proficiency tests to give you a clear understanding of your current English or French level, a valuable first step for your application.
Expert guidance & referrals
Our knowledgeable advisors can help you understand program requirements and direct you to official government resources and specific newcomer-serving organizations in your region.
Complementary & specialized training
If you wish to accelerate your learning or focus on specific skills like business communication or SLE preparation, our premium private and online courses are the perfect complement to government-funded programs.
What are the steps for enrolling in subsidized programs?
Step 1
Book your language assessment:
Schedule a comprehensive English or French assessment with Berlitz to determine your current proficiency level. This is the first step in identifying the right program for your goals.
Step 2
Review your results and program options:
Receive a detailed assessment report and meet with our advisors to discuss your results. We’ll recommend the best program options based on your needs, eligibility, and learning objectives.
Step 3
Start your learning journey:
Enrol in your chosen language training program and begin building the skills you need for work, daily life, or professional licensing in Canada with confidence.
