IELTS vs CLB Benchmarks

IELTS to CLB: Understanding Language Test Requirements for Immigration to Canada 

If you are planning to apply for a Canadian visa or study permit, understanding how your English proficiency is assessed is crucial. This is because applying to many of Canada’s immigration programs requires applicants to prove their English language ability.  

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a national standard used to measure language proficiency for immigration and citizenship purposes. A lower CLB score means the applicant cannot communicate and understand English, while a higher CLB score suggests that the applicant is proficient in English. The required minimum level and number of points you get for your language skills will depend on the specific program you are applying to. 

Check out this list of minimum CLB levels an applicant needs for all four language abilities. Test results must be less than two years old when submitting an application for permanent residence. 

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, it is important to know how your scores align with the CLB. This alignment helps students and professionals determine their eligibility for work or study programs and allows them to submit the right documents when applying for immigration to Canada. 

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada trusts IELTS for all visas that require applicants to provide proof of English language proficiency. However, it is important to note that you need to take the General Training option. IRCC does not accept the Academic test options for Express Entry. 

IELTS is entirely compatible with CLB. This guide explains how your IELTS score aligns with CLB and how it matters for various immigration programs. You can also find resources to help you on your journey to permanent residency in Canada.  

IELTS to CLB Calculator: Conversion Chart 

 If you have taken the IELTS and want to know how your score aligns with the CLB, this chart breaks down the conversion. It focuses on the four key English skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, and compares scores to show you what CLB level is the equivalent of an IELTS band score. 

Understanding CLB Levels and Proficiency  

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) system consists of 12 levels, each representing a specific range of English language proficiency. These 12 CLB benchmarks are set for each of the 4 language skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. They describe competencies and tasks that demonstrate English language knowledge and are arranged in 3 stages from 'basic' to 'intermediate' to 'advanced'.   Understanding these levels will help you assess where you stand and what improvements you may need to meet immigration or work requirements.  

• CLB 1-4: Basic ability to understand and communicate in familiar situations. Minimal proficiency is required for survival in everyday situations. 

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

• CLB 9-12: Advanced proficiency, demonstrating high competence in handling complex language tasks, often required for higher-ranking positions or academic purposes. 

Knowing your CLB score is essential for understanding what you need to improve to move to a higher level.  

CLB Levels Matter for Canadian Immigration  

Knowing your CLB score is essential for understanding what you need to improve to move to a higher level. The CLB level you achieve can have a significant impact on your eligibility for various immigration programs. Programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) have specific CLB requirements.   In the Express Entry Points System, your CLB score directly influences your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Achieving higher CLB levels (e.g., CLB 9) can provide a substantial boost to your CRS score, improving your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.  

New PGWP Rules for International Students in Canada  

Starting November 1, 2024, new language proficiency will be introduced by the Canadian government as part of the PGWP application process.  Graduates need to possess the necessary language skills to thrive in their post-graduate work experience and make a smoother transition to permanent residency. To this end, graduates from universities will be required to meet a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7 (the IELTS equivalent of 6.0). Graduates from colleges will need to meet a CLB level of 5 (the IELTS equivalent of 5.0). 

The aim is to improve the integration of international graduates into Canada’s workforce, ensuring they possess the necessary language skills to succeed in the labour market. 

CLB Levels for Skilled Workers 

For those applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, CLB 7 is often the minimum required level, which corresponds to an IELTS score of 6.0 in all skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking). Achieving CLB 9 (IELTS 7.0) or higher is advantageous as it allows applicants to gain additional CRS points. Many skilled workers in fields like engineering, IT, and healthcare must meet these language standards to prove their ability to communicate effectively in Canadian workplaces. 

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

It is important for all applicants to routinely check updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada on language testing and minimum CLB benchmarks. 

How Your IELTS Score Impacts Your Canadian Immigration Application 

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is used by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to evaluate the language proficiency of individuals applying for immigration, work permits, and study permits. Whether you're applying through Express Entry or other immigration programs, knowing your CLB score based on your IELTS results is crucial. 

For example, if you're targeting programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class, you will need to meet specific CLB levels. A common requirement is CLB 7, which is equivalent to scoring 6.0 in each IELTS skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). Higher levels, such as CLB 9, can increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, making your visa application stronger and more likely to be selected during processing time. 

CLBs are aligned to IELTS band scores, which means the higher you score in your IELTS, the better your CLB score will be too. 

CLB and IELTS Preparation for Immigration Success 

To successfully achieve the required CLB level, it is important to focus on targeted training for each of the four English skills. 

Training for IELTS Listening Ability

To achieve a high score in IELTS Listening, it is essential to practice listening to native speakers and familiarizing yourself with different accents and scenarios. Engaging in interactive listening exercises, including listening to podcasts or news, can help improve this skill. 

Get your IELTS preparation off to the right start with official preparation materials from experts for the Listening test. 

CLB Speaking Practice Programs

There are various CLB preparation programs that help improve your speaking ability. These programs are designed to simulate real-life conversations and provide feedback on pronunciation, fluency, and grammar. You can also practice speaking with a partner or enroll in language exchange programs. 

Core Skills in IELTS Reading and Writing

IELTS Reading and Writing require not only language proficiency but also strategy. Practicing with sample tests and getting accustomed to academic and non-academic texts can enhance your reading comprehension and writing skills. Writing practice should focus on structuring essays, answering prompts directly, and managing your time efficiently. 

Check these free resources on IELTS Reading and find out what IELTS examiners look for in IELTS Writing. 

Get Ready for Your IELTS and CLB Journey 

Achieving the necessary CLB level is entirely achievable with the right preparation. Whether you’re applying for permanent residency, a study permit, or a work visa, proper preparation is key to meeting the requirements set by the Canadian government.