Can anyone explain why only LINC language course results meeting CLB 4 are acceptable for citizenship applicants, but results of ESL courses (offered in many schools and community centres) are not recognized? I understand that LINC programs are federally-funded, and ESL programs are not, but why should that be a reason to reject applicants who have successfully completed ESL? Does the government believe that the quality of teaching at ESL programs is sub-standard? I have run into this problem trying to assist citizenship applicants, and they are understandably disappointed to find that after spending many months in a (non-LINC) ESL course, this isn't sufficient and now have to either register for LINC courses or pay $150 to take a CELPIP test. I can't find any satisfactory explanation for this on the CIC site or elsewhere.