Express Entry language tests are one of the eligibility requirements for all 3 Canada PR programs.

Candidates are awarded points based on their English and French Language ability. The minimum requirements for language tests are different for the 3 programs. When you are creating your Express Entry profile, the system will request you to provide information on the language test you have taken along with the results and reference numbers.

Minimum score requirements for Language Test for Express Entry:

  • FSW: First language CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French (You can score additional points for a second language)
  • CEC: For NOC 0 or A job, CLB 7 in English or NCLC 7 in French. For NOC B job CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French
  • FST: CLB 5 for listening and speaking component, and CLB 4 for reading and writing

What is the minimum IELTS Score for Canada Express Entry

IELTS is one of the world’s most popular language tests for Canada Immigration. While it’s not the only approved language test, the information below shows the minimum IELTS score for Express Entry programs.

Federal Skilled Worker Program: the minimum score required is CLB 7 which is equivalent to :

  • Listening: IELTS band 6 or more
  • Reading: IELTS band 6 or more
  • Speaking: IELTS band 6 or more
  • Writing: IELTS band 6 or more

Canadian Experience Class Program: the minimum score required is: CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A job | CLB 5 for NOC B Job

CLB 7 is equivalent to :

  • Listening: IELTS band 6 or more
  • Reading: IELTS band 6 or more
  • Speaking: IELTS band 6 or more
  • Writing: IELTS band 6 or more

CLB 5 is equivalent to:

  • Listening: IELTS band 5 or more
  • Reading: IELTS band 4 or more
  • Speaking: IELTS band 5 or more
  • Writing: IELTS band 5 or more

Federal Skilled Trade Program: the minimum score required is CLB 5 for speaking and listening, and CLB 4 for reading and writing is equivalent to :

  • Listening: IELTS band 5 or more
  • Reading: IELTS band 3.5 or more
  • Speaking: IELTS band 5 or more
  • Writing: IELTS band 4 or more

Language tests Accepted For Express Entry

English

French

Language tests help in proving that your language skills (English or French) meet minimum requirements in each of the following four categories:

  • Listening
  • Reading
  • Speaking
  • Writing

These test results have to be included when you complete your Express Entry profile.

IRCC does not provide language testing. So, you will need to be tested by a “third-party” agency that has been approved. Taking the test also involves a certain cost that differs from agency to agency.

Some important points to remember

  1. Language tests are high points earners but also costly. You will see a significant rise in your CRS points with higher language scores which will help you get your Invitation to Apply ITA faster. So it is wise to practice and give your best for the language tests.
  2. In some countries, the waiting time for Language tests can be in the range of 2-3 months, so it is advisable to book your language tests early.
  3. Your language tests are only valid for 2 years
  4. Express Entry IELTS requirement: Ensure that you take the “General Training” test and not “Academic.”
  5. IELTS tests are conducted by these 3 organisations The University of Cambridge ESOL, IDP Australia and The British Council. You can select any of the 3 organisations for Express Entry purposes.
  6. Your language test dates, results and reference numbers are needed when creating the Express Entry profile, so ensure that you create the profile once results are in handin-hand.
  7. Some Express Entry IELTS score calculator accepts only Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels for Language results so ensure that you have correctly converted your results to CLB equivalent.
  8. Computer-delivered IELTS is available if you want more convenience.
  9. Our Express Entry CLB Converter makes this super simple Express Entry CLB Converter

If you prefer a manual conversion then for easier reference, the most popular CLB conversion tables are here.

Where can I take the practice IELTS test online?

You will find some important IELTS preparation guides and practise tests in the links below (no affiliation):

You can find more information on Language tests and program-specific minimum requirements here.

Express Entry IELTS to CLB Converter

Use Express Entry CLB Converter to instantly

  • Convert CELPIP to CLB
  • Convert IELTS to CLB
  • Convert TEF to CLB
  • Convert TCF to CLB

Using this converter you do not have to worry about any errors while using the manual conversion charts.

What is CLB?

To measure your English or French levels, IRCC uses below 2 benchmark systems:

Do Native English or French speakers need a Language test too?

Yes. Every applicant is required to provide proof of language ability in one of Canada’s two official languages- English or French. Language test results are one of the eligibility requirements for immigration to Canada under Express Entry. Every candidate irrespective of their native language must take a standard test by an objective third party.

This is to ensure that all applicants for Canadian immigration are assessed using the same language standards, irrespective of the language of origin, nationality or ethnicity. You will need to present official test results designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada in order to be able to apply under Express Entry.

Where to take a third-party language test for my immigration application?

  • You can take the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (General test) through Paragon Testing Enterprises Inc.
  • You can take the International English Language Testing System (General test) through Cambridge Assessment English, IDP Australia and The British Council
  • You can take the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF Canada) through The Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • You can take the Test de connaissance du français (TCF Canada) (in French only) through le Centre international d’études pédagogiques (CIEP).

You can look at the websites of all the approved language test centres to get details like test locations and dates.

Can any Federal Skilled Worker immigration applicants be exempted from the mandatory language test?

No, there are no exceptions to this rule. Every program under Express Entry requires you to submit third-party language results. The results of your test(s) need to be included in your Express Entry profile. This is to ensure all applicants are assessed against the same standards, irrespective of their language of origin, nationality or ethnicity.

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