If you want to move to Canada this year, this article will help you understand your options. Learn which English language tests you can take and how IELTS can help you achieve your migration goals.
IRCC Language test
When you submit your visa application to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you’ll need to demonstrate language proficiency in either English or French. IELTS is a IRCC approved language test for English proficiency. IELTS assesses your Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking skills and test centres are available in more than 130 countries.
IELTS: the English test for Canadian PR
If you intend to study and then work in Canada, you might have thought about applying for permanent residency as well. As part of your application, you’ll need to demonstrate language proficiency in either English or French.
To prove your English proficiency, you can take the IELTS General Training test, which is the preferred English test for immigration to Canada. On the other hand, the IELTS Academic test is for those who wish to study in the country.
More people around the world rely on IELTS to succeed in moving forward in their life. IELTS is trusted and recognised by more than 12,500 organisations globally including the Canadian government.
Which English language proficiency tests are approved for Canadian immigration, citizenship and PR?
If you want to apply for a work visa or permanent residency in Canada, the approved English language proficiency tests are:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) General Training
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) General Test
Pearson Test of English Core (PTE Core)
What immigration programs are offered in Canada and what are the IRCC language test requirements?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels to check your English language proficiency for immigration. The table below shows the equivalent IELTS General Training scores for each level.
CLB Level | IELTS GT Reading | IELTS GT Writing | IELTS GT Listening | IELTS GT Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
10 | 8 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 7.5 |
9 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
8 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
6 | 5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
4 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 4 |
The Canadian government currently offers a range of immigration programs, including:
Immigration program | Minimum CLB level required |
|---|---|
Express Entry | 5 or 7 depending on program |
Provincial nominees | 4 |
Atlantic Immigration Program | 4 or 5 depending on job offer |
Caregivers | 5 |
Agri-Food Pilot | 4 |
Rural and Norther Immigration Pilot | 4, 5 or 6 depending on job offer |
Economic Mobility Pathways Project | 4, 5 or 7 depending on job offer |
Reference: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada.html
For more information about these programs and other immigration programs for Canada, please visit the IRCC website.
What are the advantages of taking IELTS for migration to Canada?
IELTS is the most trusted English language test by people looking to study, live or work in Canada,
When you choose IELTS as your English test for Canadian PR, you’re choosing a test that is recognised and accepted by more than 12,500 organisations around the world. These include immigration departments, universities, professional bodies, and employers.
IELTS gives you more choices to make your journey easy every step of the way.
You can choose to do IELTS on computer or on paper.
Experience the convenience and flexibility you need with over 4000 test locations. IELTS gives you unparalleled access to opportunities in Canada and beyond.
Unlike most other English language tests, IELTS gives you the chance to do a speaking test face-to-face with a real human. You can use your results as proof of real-life communication skills.
As well as an Academic test, IELTS also offers a General Training, which uses everyday language for migration to Canada.
IELTS puts your success first, that’s why we keep our scoring system simple and transparent, so you can gain recognised English skills and live life to the fullest.
Canada starts here.
Book IELTS for migration to Canada
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is not intended to provide advice on migrating to Canada and all immigration programs should be checked on the IRCC website or with your migration consultant or lawyer.