English Classes 

I would like to change to a different EAL school. Do I need to take the Canadian Language Benchmark Placement Test (CLBPT) again?

If you are taking classes now,  or you have a recent LINC Certificate / Progress Report from your school, you can contact WELARC to book a referral appointment. You do not need a new assessment. 

If you are not taking classes now, and you do not have a recent LINC Certificate / Progress Report, you may need a new assessment.

If you are not sure, call us at 204-943-5387 or email info@welarc.net to discuss your situation. We can tell you if you need a new assessment or a new referral. 

How can I find out about other EAL classes in Winnipeg?

You can:

• check our website for a  list of EAL programs and classes in Winnipeg. 

• ask your teacher about other EAL class options

• book an appointment to talk with a WELARC assessor. The assessor can help you choose the best school for your plans and goals.

How long will it take for my CLB level to change?

Many things affect how quickly someone can learn a language. For example: 

• how much time you spend in class

• how much time you spend studying

• how much English you use outside of class

• difference between English and your first language

• your level of motivation

• your age

Everyone learns at a different speed. 

Communication

My English is better than my friend's English, but they got a higher level.  Why?

It is not easy to know someone’s language level.  Usually, your class level is based on your Listening and Speaking levels.  Sometimes people have language skills that are not easy for other learners to see.  Confidence is difficult to measure, but is a big part of someone’s ability to communicate. 

Your friend might be able to read or write more English than you.  Maybe your friend is more comfortable using English.  Maybe your friend uses more complex sentences, or has more vocabulary than you do.

I studied English in my home country. Why is it difficult for me to communicate in Canada?

Canadian English might be different from the English you learned in your home country.  For example, Canadians might have a different accent and may use different vocabulary, expressions, and idioms.  The way Canadians communicate is also a unique part of Canadian culture.  English classes in Canada focus on improving communication skills for life, work, and education. 

Education 

Do I need to take the CLBPT if I am planning to study at university or college?

No. Universities and colleges do not accept the results of the Canadian Language Benchmark Placement Test (CLBPT) as proof of language abilities.  Contact the university or college for information about which test results they accept.  If you want to take English classes to prepare for academic studies, you might need to take the CLBPT.

Do I need to take a new CLBPT if I want to take a job training course?

Most colleges have their own process to check if someone is ready to enter a program. They might ask you to prove your English language abilities and will tell you which English test results they accept.  They should not ask you for your Canadian Language Benchmark Placement Test (CLBPT) results.

If you are taking English classes your teacher will give you a Progress Report at the end of the term. Sometimes you can use that report to enter a job training program. 

I need a higher CLB level to be accepted into a training program. Can my teacher change my level?

Your teacher gives you Benchmark levels based on what you can do in English. They are a way to describe your skills.  Your teacher carefully follows your progress and matches your language skills to a Benchmark level. Your teacher will give you an honest assessment of what you can do based on what they see in class.  The most important thing when you enter a training program is that you have the necessary skills to be successful.  If you want to learn more about the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB), read about them at www.language.ca 

How will I know when my English level is high enough for training or high school courses?

Every course requires different skills and levels of English. The best thing to do is talk to the school about the course you want to take. Ask what is required to start the course. 

When a school decides what Benchmark  level is required, they consider: 

• the listening and speaking that teachers and students will do in class

• what English students will need on the job after they finish the course

• the reading that students must do (text books or exams)

• the writing students need to do in the course (assignments and exams)

If my language level is high enough to enter a course, does that mean that I will be successful?

Success depends on more than just language. Many things affect your success. For example: 

• your previous education, training, or experience

• your level of motivation 

• your study skills

• how much time you have to study

• your family responsibilities

• your level of stress  

New Pathway to Permanent Residence 

Can I take the CLBPT at WELARC for the Pathway for Permanent Residence (announced in April 2021)?

No, the Benchmark test is not accepted for this pathway. You must do a different test. 

Read about the Pathway for Permanent Residence

Read about language testing for Pathway for Permanent Residence..