Learn English or French

A New Direction

Ontario’s Immigration Strategy

A new direction for immigration in Ontario – attracting highly skilled workers and their families, supporting diverse communities and growing a globally-connected economy.

Learn more

English or French as a Second Language (ESL/FSL) classes are offered through your local school boards. You can learn or improve your
English or French in classes at your level – from beginner to advanced. Classes are held during the day, at night, and on weekends, to fit your schedule.

Visit our Online Search Tool to find an ESL or FSL language training class close to your home.

To be eligible, you must be someone whose first language is neither
English nor French, and:

• A Canadian citizen or
• A permanent resident or
• A Convention refugee or
• A refugee claimant or
• An approved Provincial Nominee or
• A foreign domestic worker admitted under the Live-In Caregiver Program

You can also contact your local school board for more information on English or French classes.

Language Training success stories

If you are internationally trained, there may be language training for your specific field of work. This language training could help you do your job better.  

Many Ontario school boards are now offering job-specific language training classes. These classes cover a wide range of job sectors and provide language training in a classroom or in the workplace. 

Some Ontario Bridge Training programs also provide job-related language training to help you get a job quickly in your field.

Other language training programs are available in Ontario. These include:

• Children learning English or French
• Language training to help you get your high school diploma (Ontario Secondary School Diploma)
• Language instruction offered by the federal government for newcomers to Canada (known as the LINC Program)