The YMCA Language Assessment and Referral Centre provides newcomers to Canada with English or French language assessment for government-funded programs. These programs include LINC (Language Instruction to Newcomers to Canada) /CLIC (Cours de Langue pour les Immigrants au Canada), LINC Home Study, and higher-level language training such as Enhanced Language Training (ELT), Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT), and Bridge to Work.

The LINC/CLIC program offers various levels for beginner, intermediate and advanced students, ranging from literacy to level seven. Higher-level language training programs prepare learners with English language skills for the workplace.

Who is eligible for language assessment?

Newcomers 18 years of age or older with the following immigration status are eligible:

• Permanent residents of Canada who have not become Canadian citizens.
• Convention refugees and protected persons overseas who have been selected for resettlement in Canada by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
• Protected persons as defined in Section 95 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
• Individuals who have been selected, in Canada or overseas, to become permanent residents pending completion of medical, security and criminal verification statutory requirements, and who have been informed by a letter from Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

At the time of assessment, newcomers must bring an original immigration document issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, such as the:

• PR (Permanent Resident) card
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence and photo ID
• Notice of Decision letter and photo ID

What is the procedure?

An appointment for language assessment must be scheduled in advance. During the assessment, a certified language assessor will determine your listening, speaking, reading and writing skills and the most appropriate class level to help you find the most suitable language training.

The YMCA of Greater Toronto does not offer any language training, just the assessment that is needed for it. Instead, language classes are offered by many different partner organizations in the community. The Language Assessment and Referral Centre will provide the information you need to find the class that is right for you.

What else do I need to know?

• All LINC/CLIC classes are offered at no cost.
• You can study full time or part time.
• French assessments are only offered for the CLIC program. Please remember that those who choose to attend CLIC classes cannot attend LINC classes.
• You can study in-class or through LINC Home Study.
• Child minding is not available at the assessment centre.
• Some language schools provide on-site child minding for children up to age six.
• An assessment is valid for six months.
• The assessment takes one and a half to three hours. Please plan your time accordingly.
• The assessments tools used are valid, reliable and based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks.

How do I make an appointment?

Call 416-925-5462 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to book an appointment. Appointments are available during the day, in the evening and on Saturdays. It is very important to come on time.

There are four locations to serve you:

• Downtown Toronto
• Scarborough
• North York
• Etobicoke

Re-referrals

Newcomers who want to change their language school or class can come to the Language Assessment and Referral Centre in person or call and speak with an assessor. Changes include: school location, time of study and method of study.