What is CLB?
The Canadian Language Benchmarks are a 12-level scale used by IRCC and the provinces to measure English ability. NCLC is the French version. Each approved test has its own score scale, so IRCC publishes charts that turn test scores into CLB or NCLC levels, one skill at a time.
Approved tests are CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training and PTE Core for English, and TEF Canada and TCF Canada for French.
CLB 7 and CLB 9 in each English test
CLB 7 is the minimum for FSW and many CEC applicants. CLB 9 unlocks the biggest jump in CRS points.
| Test | CLB 7 (each skill) | CLB 9 (each skill) |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS General | 6.0 in all four | L 8.0 · R 7.0 · W 7.0 · S 7.0 |
| CELPIP-General | 7 in all four | 9 in all four |
| PTE Core | L 60 · R 60 · W 69 · S 68 | L 82 · R 78 · W 88 · S 84 |
How CLB affects your points
- CRS: each skill earns points separately. For a single applicant, CLB 9 is worth 31 points per skill compared with 23 at CLB 8, so moving all four skills up adds 32 points before skill transferability. Check your CRS score.
- FSW: you need CLB 7 in every skill to be eligible, and each skill earns 4–6 grid points. Check your FSW points.
- CEC: CLB 7 for TEER 0–1 jobs, CLB 5 for TEER 2–3 jobs.
- BC PNP: points come from your lowest skill: CLB 9+ = 30, and each level down is 5 fewer. Check your BC PNP score.
French and the 50-point bonus
If you reach NCLC 7 in all four skills on TEF Canada or TCF Canada, you get 25 additional CRS points, or 50 if your English is also CLB 5+ in all four skills. You also earn second-language points and can be invited in French-language category draws, which often have lower cut-offs.
Choosing and preparing for a test
- Results are valid for two years. Book with enough time left to submit your PR application.
- Focus your preparation on your weakest skill: most rules use your lowest score.
- IELTS Academic isn't accepted for Express Entry. Book IELTS General Training.
- If you're close to CLB 9, a retake is often the cheapest way to raise your CRS score.