or call 519-579-9622

Who is eligible for language assessment and referral services?

• Permanent residents of Canada

• Convention refugees and persons in need of protection

• People in Canada whose application for permanent resident status is being processed in Canada and have been informed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that their initial application has been approved

• Foreign domestic workers admitted under the live-in caregiver program

• Naturalized Canadian citizens

• Refugee claimants

• 18 years of age or older

Referrals and Additional Supports

We can refer you to classes in your local community. We also have information and resources for language learning supports. We do not teach language classes at our locations.

The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program is available through English at First and Conestoga College English Language programs, as well as at Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) through St. Louis Adult Learning and Continuing Education Centres. If you are eligible, LINC students may benefit from transportation and child care assistance. If you cannot go to an in-person class, you may be able to learn English at home through the LINC HOME STUDY program.

English as a Second Language (ESL) courses are offered by the Waterloo Catholic District School Board.

French Language Assessment

Click here for information on French Language Assessments.

English Conversation Circles

This program provides newcomers with an opportunity to meet other people, make new friends, learn about Waterloo and Stratford Region, and build confidence while practicing their spoken English or French. 

Frequently Asked Questions