Why LINC Isn’t Enough
- douglas540
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
If you are a newcomer to Canada, you may have heard about the LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) program. It is a free government-funded program that helps newcomers learn English. While LINC is a great place to start for many people, for others, it may not be enough. Some newcomers, immigrants, or visitors to Canada cannot join LINC. Others join but after many months of classes, find that LINC does not meet all their English-learning needs.
At Douglas English Centre, I understand these challenges. I am here to help newcomers who need more support. In this blog, I will explain the common problems with LINC, and how I can help you reach your English goals faster.
Not Everyone Can Join LINC
One of the biggest problems with LINC is that it is only for permanent residents or official refugees. Unfortunately, LINC does not accept refugee claimants, international students, temporary workers, or even a Canadian citizen born in another country.
This can be very frustrating—especially if you still need help learning English. At Douglas English Centre, everyone is welcome. No matter what your status is in Canada (or anywhere), you can join my classes. I offer private lessons for all learners, including those who are not eligible for LINC.
Long Waitlists and Limited Space
In big cities like Toronto or Vancouver, LINC classes can be full. Some people must wait weeks or months to join a class. For newcomers who want to become active in Canadian life in Canada right away, this wait is too long.
At Douglas English Centre, I offer small group and 1-on-1 private online lessons that you can start right away. You don’t need to wait for months. We can start as soon as possible so you can find a job, make friends, and communicate faster.
Few LINC Advanced English Classes
Most LINC classes are for beginners or lower-intermediate learners. Students usually stop at CLB 6 or 7 (intermediate level). However, many newcomers need advanced English for college, university, or professional jobs.
Our centre offers customized classes for intermediate to advanced learners, including:
Academic English
IELTS and CELPIP test preparation
English for work and business
Writing and speaking at higher levels
We help you go beyond basic English, so you can succeed in education and career. Get help learning the Academic Word List, business slang, organizing essays, and other strategies for boosting your confidence with English.
Limited Options
Many LINC classes are held during the daytime, from Monday to Friday. This is hard for people who work, take care of children, or have busy schedules. Whether it's the father, who has to work long hours to pay the bills, or the mother, who is busy at home raising children—finding time for English classes is difficult.
With Douglas English Centre, you can take online classes from the comfort of your home. YOU can choose which class times are best for you. Evenings? Weekends? No problem! I believe that learning should fit your schedule, not the other way around.
LINC Focuses Mostly on Survival English
LINC programs usually focus on survival English—for daily life like shopping, taking the bus, or going to the doctor. This is helpful, but it’s not enough if you want to get a better paying job or promotion, attend college or university, or simply speak & write English at a higher level.
I can offer you English lessons with real-life goals in mind. I help you write better, speak with confidence, and understand Canadian culture in deeper ways. I can also help with personalized job interviews, resumes, presentations, and communication skills. You will not find much of this with LINC group classes.
We Support Your Long-Term Success
At Douglas English Centre, I don’t just teach English—I support your long-term development. Together, we can create a learning plan based on your goals. Since I lived overseas in Japan for over 15 years, I know very well that learning a new language is a long and difficult journey. But don't worry - I'm here to help you every step of the way.
Start Today
If LINC is not available for you —or not challenging enough—please try Douglas English Centre. Classes are available immediately for Test Preparation, Business English, and Advanced English. Please visit my website or send a message.
If you want to talk with Douglas right away, and discuss some of your challenges with English, use this link to schedule a Free Lesson at a time that suits you:
No matter where you are in your English learning journey, I am ready to help.
Douglas English Centre – Your Next Step in Canada Starts Here!
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