by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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CLB Levels Canada: What You Need to Know for Immigration in 2025
Understanding CLB levels Canada is essential for anyone applying for Express Entry or other Canada immigration programs. Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) are the national standard for describing language proficiency, and your results on CELPIP, IELTS, PTE Core, TEF Canada, and TCF Canada are converted into CLB scores. These scores determine your eligibility and can significantly impact your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. If you need help understanding your CLB results or planning your immigration strategy, you can contact us for tailored legal advice.
Which Language Tests IRCC Accepts for CLB Conversion
IRCC accepts the following tests for immigration:
| English Tests | French Tests |
|---|---|
| CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program You must take the CELPIP-General test. Official CELPIP website | TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français Official TEF Canada website |
| IELTS: International English Language Testing System You must take the IELTS General Training option. Note: IRCC does not accept IELTS One Skill Retake for Express Entry. Official IELTS website | TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français Official TCF Canada website |
| PTE Core: Pearson Test of English You must take the PTE Core option. Official PTE Core website |
Why CLB Levels Matter for Express Entry
Your CLB level determines your eligibility and competitiveness in the Express Entry pool. Higher CLB scores, especially CLB 9 or higher, unlock additional CRS points under skill-transferability factors. A strong language score is one of the most effective ways to increase your ranking.
How CLB Levels Canada Are Calculated
CLB levels are assigned by converting your test results from CELPIP, IELTS, PTE Core, TEF Canada, and TCF Canada. Each test has a different scoring system, but all convert to the same standardized CLB scale. In French, these levels are known as Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC).
CLB Levels for Eligibility
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW): Minimum CLB 7 in all abilities for first official language. Minimum CLB of 5 in all abilities for second official language
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs, CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs
- PNP Programs: Vary by province, typically CLB 4–7
CLB Levels for Competitiveness
CLB 9+ is the most strategic target because it unlocks significant CRS boosts. Many candidates improve their CRS score by retaking an English or French test to reach higher CLB levels.
CLB Conversion for English Tests
Here is how common English tests convert to CLB levels in Canada:
CELPIP → CLB
CELPIP scores match CLB directly (for example, CELPIP Level 9 = CLB 9). You can use your CELPIP results to understand where you stand on the CLB scale.
IELTS → CLB
IELTS uses band scores (for example, 6.5 or 7.0) that IRCC converts into CLB levels. For instance, an IELTS 7.0 in listening roughly equals CLB 7.
PTE Core → CLB
PTE Core uses a 10–90 scale that converts to CLB. High PTE Core scores can help applicants reach CLB 9+ and earn more CRS points.
CLB Conversion for French Tests
TEF Canada → NCLC / CLB
- TEF Canada scores convert to NCLC levels.
- Strong results can significantly boost your CRS score, especially for French-language or bilingual draws.
TCF Canada → NCLC / CLB
- TCF Canada also converts to NCLC.
- Helpful for francophone and bilingual applicants seeking additional CRS points.
How to Improve Your CLB Score
- Use official preparation materials from CELPIP, IELTS, PTE Core, TEF Canada, and TCF Canada
- Focus on weaker skills (for example, writing or listening)
- Simulate exam conditions with timed practice
- Consider retaking your test to reach CLB 9+
If you need to increase your CLB levels Canada to strengthen your Express Entry profile, you can contact us for a personalized plan.
Stay Informed
To stay updated on Canadian immigration news, policy changes, and legal updates, follow us on social media:
We’re here to keep you informed and empowered on your Canadian immigration journey.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a licensed immigration professional regarding your specific situation.
FAQ: CLB Levels Canada
What are CLB levels in Canada?
CLB levels describe language ability for immigration and are used by IRCC to evaluate English and French proficiency.
Which tests convert to CLB?
CELPIP, IELTS, PTE Core, TEF Canada and TCF Canada all convert to CLB levels in Canada.
What CLB do I need for Express Entry?
Most applicants need at least CLB 7, while CLB 9+ provides a significant CRS advantage under the Express Entry system.
Are CLB levels valid for two years?
Yes, the test results that determine your CLB levels are valid for two years from the date of your exam.
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