Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) and IELTS Equivalence

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a national standard used to evaluate the English language skills of Canadian immigrants. The scale is calculated from 1 to 12 and plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for various Canadian immigration programs. The required minimum level and the points you receive for your language skills depend on the specific program to which you are applying. 

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is widely accepted by the Canadian government as proof of English language proficiency. If you have taken, or plan to take the IELTS, your scores can be converted to the equivalent CLB level. This equivalence ensures that students and professionals can submit the correct documentation when applying for immigration to Canada. 

The following chart shows how your IELTS scores correspond to CLB levels. It compares your scores in the four key skills—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—to help you determine your CLB level.

The CLB framework outlines specific competencies and tasks that demonstrate your English language proficiency. These are categorized into three stages: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. 

• CLB 1–4: Basic ability to understand and communicate in familiar situations, with minimal proficiency needed for everyday survival tasks. 

• CLB 5–8: Intermediate ability to express ideas clearly and understand more complex concepts. This range is typically required for skilled immigration and work permits. 

• CLB 9–12: Advanced proficiency, reflecting a high level of competence in handling complex language tasks, often needed for academic purposes or senior-level roles.

Your CLB level significantly influences your eligibility for various Canadian immigration programs. Programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) have specific CLB requirements. 

In the Express Entry Points System, your CLB level directly impacts your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. For example, achieving a higher CLB level, such as CLB 9, can greatly increase your CRS score, enhancing your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. 

From 1 November 2024, the Canadian government introduced new language proficiency requirements for the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) application process. 

• University graduates must meet a CLB level of 7 (equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.0). 

• College graduates must achieve a CLB level of 5 (equivalent to an IELTS score of 5.0). 

These changes aim to ensure that graduates possess the necessary language skills for a smooth transition into the workforce and, eventually, permanent residency. 

For applicants under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the minimum required CLB level is often CLB 7, which corresponds to an IELTS score of 6.0 in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Achieving CLB 9 or higher (IELTS 7.0) provides additional CRS points, which can improve your chances of immigration success. 

For programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), CLB requirements vary based on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) of the job you’re applying for. 

It’s crucial to stay updated with announcements from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regarding language testing and CLB benchmarks. 

If you need to meet CLB requirements for immigration or a work permit, focused IELTS preparation is essential. 

• Access free webinars, masterclasses, and online courses designed to help you excel in the IELTS test. 

• Discover flexible and convenient IELTS test options to suit your schedule. 

With the right preparation, you can achieve the CLB level needed for your chosen immigration program or work permit.