Learn a skill and meet new friends for life
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Learning doesn't stop when you settle in Canada. Whether you want to improve your English, learn a new skill, or meet new people, there's a place for you here. Most of what we offer is free, and everything is designed for newcomers.
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Free English classes for newcomers to Canada
Offered by ICA, these classes are open to everyone, focusing on conversation, pronunciation, grammar, and workplace communication.
Language training programs for work permit holders & refugee claimants
Government-funded language training classes provide free English training for or work permit holders and refugee claimants
Affordable English classes open to everyone
The Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) offers free English classes tailored for newcomers to Canada.
Don't know your English level?
Take a free Canadian Language Benchmarks Test to see where your English skills rank.
For Permanent Residents
Learn English (LINC)
Our Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) offers free, friendly classes focused on practical English and information about life in Canada. Offerings include:
- Beginner to intermediate English language training for eligible newcomers (permanent residents or refugees) adults, age 17 years and older
- Available childcare for preschool children of LINC students
LINC is funded by the Government of Canada, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Class Schedule
Mon. to Fri., 9 – 11:30 am: Five in-person classes + one online class
Mon. to Fri., 12:30 – 3 pm: Three in-person classes
Mon. & Wed., 6 – 9 pm: Two in-person classes + one online class
Tues. & Thurs., 6 – 9 pm: Three in-person classes
For work permit holders and refugee claimants
BC Newcomer Services
Our English language training program funded by the BC government offers free, friendly classes focused on practical English and information about life in Canada at the beginners levels, employment readiness at the high-intermediate levels and both areas are taught at the middle levels.
Class Schedule
Mon. & Wed., 6 – 9 pm: Three in-person classes
Tues. & Thurs. 6 – 9 pm: One in-person class, and two in-person/online classes
Affordable English classes
ICA offers fun and low-cost English classes for adults and youth. Our classes are great for anyone (no Immigration status required) who wants to improve their real-life English skills faster. You’ll learn with friendly and experienced teachers who will help you feel more confident speaking English at work and in everyday conversations.
Already enrolled in a class?
Access your Moodle account and current classes here
CELPIP Test Preparation- Reading & Writing
Are you preparing to take the CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) Test and aiming for a CLB level between 4 and 7? Are you planning to take the CELPIP General LS Test for Canadian Citizenship? Whether you’re applying for permanent residency, a work permit, or simply want to improve your language skills, our focused Reading & Writing CELPIP Test Prep class is designed to help you succeed.
CELPIP Test Preparation – Listening & Speaking
Are you planning to take the CELPIP General Test for Canadian permanent residency or employment? Are you planning to take the CELPIP General LS Test for Canadian Citizenship? This focused test preparation class is designed for learners at CLB 4–7 who want to succeed in the Listening and Speaking sections of the CELPIP exam.
Speaking & Writing Skills for Success in School
Are you a student aged 12–17 who wants to feel more confident speaking and writing in school? Or a parent looking to support your child’s success in a new learning environment? This engaging after-school class helps newcomer youth improve their English speaking and writing skills for a smooth learning experience in Canadian schools.
Listening, Speaking & Workplace Success
Are you working in Canada—or preparing to enter the workforce—and want to improve your English communication on the job? Listening, Speaking & Workplace Success is a practical, professional-focused class for newcomers at CLB 4–6 and age 16+ who want to speak clearly, understand others easily, and thrive in Canadian work environments.
English for Life in Canada
Are you new to Canada and want to improve your English for daily life? Our English for Life in Canada class is the perfect place to start. This beginner friendly (CLB 1-3 and age 16+) and supportive program helps newcomers learn essential English for everyday situations.
Real stories:
Bob and Lathika move for a better life
When Lathika arrived in 2016, it was a stressful time. One of the first things she did that made a difference was attend English classes at ICA. Through classes and other ICA programs, both Lathika and Bob made new friends from around the world which helped them feel more connected to the community…
