Guide
CELPIP levels and CLB: what score do you need?
CELPIP reports each skill as a level from 1 to 12, and each CELPIP level equals the same Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB). A CELPIP 9 in Speaking is CLB 9 in Speaking. You get four separate levels, and immigration programs look at each one, so your lowest skill often decides your result.
What each level means
| CELPIP level = CLB | In practice |
|---|---|
| 11–12 | Advanced. Precise, natural language with almost no errors. |
| 9–10 | Strong. Effective in most situations; occasional minor slips. |
| 7–8 | Good. Handles everyday and work tasks; noticeable but minor errors. |
| 5–6 | Developing. Communicates basic needs; frequent errors. |
| 3–4 | Limited. Simple, familiar topics only. |
The minimum for common programs
- Federal Skilled Worker (Express Entry)CLB 7 in all four skills, minimum
- Canadian Experience Class, TEER 0 or 1 jobsCLB 7 in all four skills
- Canadian Experience Class, TEER 2 or 3 jobsCLB 5 in all four skills
- Canadian citizenship (ages 18–54)CLB 4 in listening and speaking
Why so many people aim for CLB 9
In Express Entry, each skill earns Comprehensive Ranking System points, and the biggest single jump is from CLB 8 to CLB 9: 8 more points per skill for a single applicant, or 32 across all four. CLB 9 also unlocks extra skill-transferability points when combined with education or work experience.
| CLB (each skill) | Single | With spouse or partner |
|---|---|---|
| CLB 4–5 | 6 | 6 |
| CLB 6 | 9 | 8 |
| CLB 7 | 17 | 16 |
| CLB 8 | 23 | 22 |
| CLB 9 | 31 | 29 |
| CLB 10 or more | 34 | 32 |
First official language, core points per skill. Source: IRCC CRS criteria. Work out your own total with the CRS language points calculator.
Find out where you stand
Take a free full Reading and Listening test, and get an estimated CLB on one Speaking and one Writing task. No card needed.
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