Microcredentials for Newcomers

Receive training to thrive in school, work, and life!

Enhance your communication, collaboration, and adaptability skills with FREE microcredentials from a Canadian college or institute.

What’s involved?

  • Each microcredential takes up to 20 hours
  • Complete the coursework online and on your own schedule
  • Receive formal recognition that verifies your skills

The course content was reviewed and validated by employers. This means you’ll get the in-demand skills sought after by today’s top companies.

Courses will begin in the fall of 2023 at colleges and institutes across the country. Eligibility and other information can be found below. Join our mailing list to be the first to know about launch dates.

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These microcredentials were developed through Skills Enhancement for Newcomers, a program delivered by Colleges and Institutes Canada and funded by the Government of Canada’s Skills for Success program.

What is a microcredential?

Microcredentials are bite-sized, industry-recognized certifications that validate specific skills and knowledge. They provide a pathway to quickly upskill and enhance your employability. These credentials are tailored to meet the needs of specific industries and are valued by employers.

Who can take these courses?

Students must be:

  • A newcomer to Canada. A newcomer is defined as a citizen, refugee, or permanent resident who has been living in Canada for less than five years. Those who have received an invitation for permanent residency but have not arrived yet in Canada are eligible to participate.
  • At least 18 years old.
  • Legally entitled to work and study in Canada (or pending approval upon arrival).

NOTE: International students or those on work visas are not eligible to participate.

Students are recommended to have:

  • A CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) of at least 6+.
  • Minimum high school education or equivalent.
  • Access to a computer or laptop and reliable internet. Delivery Institutions are expected to provide access to one as needed.
  • Some work experience, in any industry, either international or Canadian
  • Basic digital skills. Specifically, students will need to be able to independently navigate new digital environments, such as the Learning Management System.

How do the courses work?

Course content was validated by employers from high-demand industries and will be delivered by various Canadian colleges or institutes. The microcredentials will be online and self-directed. This means there’s flexibility to take the course around your schedule. Once you complete the coursework (approximately 20 hours), you will receive a recognized credential, such as a certificate or badge, that verifies your skills.

What microcredentials are available and what will I learn?

Three microcredentials will be available; Communication, Collaboration, and Adaptability. They are three of the competencies identified by the Government of Canada’s Skills for Success program. Skills for Success is a framework that identifies nine skills needed to participate and thrive in learning, work, and life.

You’ll have the option of enrolling in one, two, or all three microcredentials.

How do I register for a microcredential?

Apply Now

To apply for the SEN program, connect with a college or institute currently accepting applications: 

Questions?

For questions, email sen.pcna@collegesinstitutes.ca. If you’re a college or institute and would like to offer these free microcredentials to newcomers in your community, contact us to learn more.