Learn English for Free in Quebec!

If you're planning a trip to Quebec, it's worth learning at least a few basic phrases in French. Despite the province's reputation for being predominantly French-speaking, you'll find that many Quebecers are actually bilingual. However, even if you don't know French, you should still be able to get by with English.

As of May 2022, it's estimated that over 70,000 new immigrants will come to live in Quebec. Many of these people will be coming from countries where English is not the predominant language.

And for these people to thrive, learning to communicate well is the key. While French may not be for every one, English will be the safest option to study. Luckily, the province offers a program to let newcomers to Quebec learn English for free!

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada in Quebec

Canada offers a Language Instruction program for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) in various provinces, including Quebec. LINC is a program to let new immigrants attend English courses without worrying about fees. LINC is offered in English or French in the province, from which students are free to choose.

Remember that the LINC program is catered to new immigrants and may not be for everyone. Luckily, there are other ways to get free English classes in Quebec offered by various language schools like Greystone College.

But no worries! If you fit into the criteria, enrolling under LINC is the soundest option.

Who is eligible for the LINC program in Quebec

As it's free, the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada has certain limitations. If you're an interested applicant, you must:

• be 18 years old and above,
• a conventional immigrant, and
• has an English assessment result based on CLB.

On the other hand, refugee claimants are not allowed to take free English courses under LINC. You may still study English but must pay some fees in your institution. Although LINC does not cover minors, they may opt to take other programs for immigrants that offer free language classes.

What to expect with LINC in Quebec

Before signing up for a LINC course, your school will ask for an English assessment result. So before registering for a class, it's advisable to take the test first. The result will help your school decide which classes best suit you.

LINC covers basic to high intermediate English. Depending on your chosen institution, the program may come with a free child care service for parent students. It's also best to talk to a school counsellor as your institution may offer free transportation or parking space.

LINC is offered across different universities, adult schools, and organizations in Quebec. Since French is the most preferred language, finding a school that best fits your needs and schedule when you're an English learner may be challenging.

Depending on your school, you may be offered nighttime, daytime, part-time, or full-time schedule. Classes may be on weekends or weekdays, but it's best to communicate directly to the school administrators to help you with your time concerns. You may also attend classes online or in person.

Once you complete the course, you will be awarded an English certificate. Some institutions also help their students find job referrals, counselling, and free job placement opportunities.

Where to take LINC in Quebec

You may inquire about LINC classes in various schools across Quebec. Here are some recommended places to take LINC courses:

• Le Centre De Refugies (The Refugee Center)
• Concordia University
• Academie Linguistique Internationale
• GEOS Language Plus Montreal
• McGill University
• Montréal Langues et Savoir

Free English Lessons under CELTA

Some schools in Quebec offer the Certificate in English Teaching to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA) to train aspiring English language instructors. But aside from English teacher wannabes, English learners also benefit from the program.

The ILSC Montreal welcomes students to learn English free through their CELTA students. You have to note, though, that the certificate under this program may be weaker than what LINC offers since your instructors will be the CELTA interns who are still learning.

But a great advantage CELTA has is its broad scope of eligible applicants, which means that if you didn't qualify for the LINC program, you can apply as an English student under CELTA and learn for free.

Who may qualify to learn under CELTA interns

As mentioned, CELTA allows for a broader scope of potential students. Here's the qualification to sign up for free English classes under CELTA:

• You must be at least 16 years old
• You have a computer (desktop or laptop)
• You must attain at least 80% attendance

As you can see, CELTA doesn't require its students to be newcomers or permanent residents. The program's primary goal is to immerse the English instructors in a practical experience.

What to expect with CELTA

Although CELTA lets students study English for free, you first need to deposit $20 as a pre-payment. It will be refunded as you completed 80% of class attendance. You may attend the course in person, but they may require a desktop if you opt for online classes, as phones aren't allowed.

While LINC lets students learn up to high intermediate English, CELTA only covers elementary to intermediate levels. Each class is limited to only 12-18 students who will have fluency in speaking, listening, reading, vocabulary, and grammar. The lessons mainly focus on speaking, so there are fewer exams to answer but more conversational tests to do.

Wrap Up

Certainly, Quebec is a great place to learn English, especially for newcomers. The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program is a great way to establish a strong foundation in English communication. But if you don't fit the qualification, there's still an option to take CELTA courses with intern teachers in ILSC Montreal. Overall, it goes down to your career preference and eligibility.