Brianna HarrisonA friend of mine—a paramedic—wanted to learn ASL for her job. So, of course, she turned to YouTube for free ASL classes (as we all do).
After a few weeks, she was still no closer to learning ASL. The pace was all over the place, and there was no one to answer questions or check if her gestures were correct.
That’s when I suggested she sign up for a local ASL course. In fact, I even sent her some solid recommendations based on research.
With real instructors and hands-on practice, she’s now fluent enough to use ASL for her job. If you also want to learn ASL properly, here’s our approved list of the top ASL classes in Toronto.
How much do ASL classes cost in Toronto?
In Toronto, ASL classes typically cost anywhere from $200 to $400 for multi-week group courses. Private lessons can range from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on the level and provider.
Full-time certificate programs are available as well, but those come with a higher price tag—usually over $4,000 for the year.
Some community centers and nonprofits may offer beginner classes at lower rates or even for free.
1. Listen & Learn Canada
Business Address: 439 University Ave., 5th Floor
Website: https://www.listenandlearnusa.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/listenandlearnok/
Contact Details: (416) 800-9242
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 10 AM – 6 PM
Listen & Learn focuses on customized one-on-one or small group language lessons. And they cater to individual and corporate clients in the US and Canada.
They believe that ASL can strengthen family bonds and create a more inclusive society. Because of that, they offer an introductory course to help people get started.
You can choose online or live lessons, so you’re learning in real time with a private tutor, not just watching pre-recorded videos. Just secure a desktop PC, phone, tablet, or laptop, and you’re good to go.
Each teacher’s references are verified, and you can even ask to see your teacher’s profile if you want a bit more background before getting started.
Unfortunately, we heard complaints about long wait times, with some having to wait for weeks (even months) for a teacher.
I received more than I paid for
“My experience with Thatiana, one of their instructors, has been phenomenal. I would highly recommend the service and feel that I received more than I have paid for.”
Jean-Philippe Innocent, Google Review
Can choose a convenient schedule of classes
“I really enjoy working with Listen & Learn. There are real professionals working here. Course Coordinators are always ready to help both students and teachers. The work is organised in a clear and professional manner. Thanks to online learning, you can choose a convenient schedule of classes regardless of location. I think that the ability to record lessons is a very convenient option; the student can always review and repeat the material.”
Sviatlana Aleksiyevich, Google Review
2. Silent Voice Canada
Business Address: 60 St Clair Ave E #400
Website: https://silentvoice.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silentvoicecanada/
Contact Details: (416) 463-1104
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 4 PM
Since the early 1970s, Silent Voice has been supporting deaf adults, youth, children, and their families. Their roots are grounded in Catholic values, but their ASL classes are open to everyone.
They have a popular Family Communication Program, designed to help families improve their communication with deaf and hard-of-hearing members.
For families with little ones, the Infant Hearing Program offers free ASL and literacy development. They’re geared towards families with deaf and hard-of-hearing children from birth to school age.
They even host a fun Sign Language Summer Program. The kids go on field trips, swim, and do arts and crafts—all while using ASL and hanging out with both deaf and hearing counselors.
The only downside we learned about—they’re so in-demand that it can be hard to book.
Friendly and respectful staff that actually care
“Great place that helps you if you’re Deaf and in need of help with almost anything with your life. Friendly and respectful staff that actually care about helping the Deaf community. Please donate and support Silent Voice.”
Michael Hale, Google Review
They deeply care about the deaf community
“The staff led by Megan Youngs was fantastic at the new address, as was Silent Voice. The service was also excellent. I adore their deaf community-hosted events and conference sessions. Very useful. Melissa is an incredible advocate, and I heartily suggest her for prompt support. They deeply care about the deaf community.”
Ryan M, Google Review
3. Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf
Business Address: 2395 Bayview Ave, North York
Website: https://www.bobrumball.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobrumball
Contact Details: (416) 449-9651
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 8 PM
The Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf has been around for 50 years, offering a wide range of services that support and celebrate the deaf community.
Their ASL Classes are open to anyone from grade nine and up, and they run online year-round across four semesters. Plus, their instructors are certified and use the well-known Signing Naturally curriculum.
Summer Immersion Camp is also available. It’s a week-long, no-talking-allowed experience for adults 18+, with two ASL classes a day, meals, accommodations, and fun activities included.
As a bonus, they host weekend retreats twice a year at the same camp. These are shorter but are still packed with workshops and social time in a 100% ASL environment.
The only small hiccup is that parking can be a bit tricky, especially during busy times at the center.
Great organization for Deaf Seniors
“Great organization for Deaf Seniors. if you can please donate to them as they need as much help as possible to keep this place running.”
Kendrew, Google Review
A lovely centre for enjoyable ASL classes
“A lovely centre. Have been taking ASL classes there and really enjoying it.”
Michael, Google Review
4. Canadian Hearing Services
Business Address: 271 Spadina Rd
Website: https://www.chs.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadianhearingservices/
Contact Details: +1 866-518-0000
Business Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
For over 85 years, Canadian Hearing Services has been empowering deaf and hard-of-hearing Canadians through services and education. As the largest nonprofit of its kind in the country, its mission is to improve lives.
The organization’s team has a fully online ASL program, which is delivered via Brightspace. It’s a platform that’s easy to use, complete with course materials, video lessons, and activities.
We love their no-voice teaching method, which means you’re fully immersed in ASL from day one.
If you’re just starting out, ASL 101 and 102 focus on storytelling and social interactions, which really helps build confidence. And for advanced learners, their ASL 301 to 304 classes teach more complex communication.
Since their ASL classes are all offered online, this might not be a good choice for those who prefer face-to-face learning.
Welcoming, supportive, and accommodating
“Vinci Giancola, Intake Counsellor at CHS Toronto location, was fantastic –
helping and guiding me with the information I needed for my research paper. Staff here is unbelievably welcoming, supportive, and accommodating. Will definitely be contributing to CHS by donating to this agency.”
Rameesa Cheema, Google Review
Polite, empathetic, and welcoming
“I was recently assessed at CHS referred by a friend. I was astonished at how organized and professional all the staff were. From the admin at the reception offering me a tissue when she noticed my nose running before I did to the overwhelmingly detailed and comprehensive audiology exam with Maria (who was also supervising a university student), the team was polite, empathetic, and welcoming. The facility I went to on Spadina was very pleasant and comfortable. As a non-profit, there was absolutely no sales emphasis – in fact I was told that aids were not advisable at this time. As an experienced health care worker, I have no reservations recommending CHS.”
eric hurowitz, Google Review
5. Toronto Public Library
Business Address: 789 Yonge St
Website: https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/torontoreferencelibrary
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torontolibrary/
Contact Details: (416) 395-5577
Business Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 1:30 PM – 5 PM
Toronto Public Library hosts online ASL Classes via Gale Courses, taught by Erin McHenry, who has been signing since 1996. She has degrees in both science and interpreting, plus hands-on experience in schools, hospitals, and community settings.
Her classes help you start real conversations. You’ll learn how to introduce yourself, sign everyday phrases, and chat about family, colors, numbers, and hobbies.
We love that you’ll also get a taste of deaf culture, explore the role of interpreters, and learn a bit about baby signs and lipreading. By the end, you’ll feel way more confident starting a conversation with someone in the deaf community.
The only catch is that spots are limited and don’t run all the time. We suggest keeping an eye on the schedule and jumping in when you see it available.
Course was excellent for a total beginner
“This course was excellent for a total beginner. I knew no signs before this class. Jennifer is an outstanding instructor. I couldn’t wait to start each one of my lessons. She made it fun, and I looked forward to it.”
Student, Online Review
Instructor was fantastic and knowledgeable
“Such a great course for the relevant content needed to understand the basics of sign language! The instructor was fantastic and knowledgeable in this area. She gave us variations on signs that we may see, which is super helpful. Overall, this was a great course.”
Student, Online Review
