CLB stands for Canadian Language Benchmarks, a standardized measurement system used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to assess English language proficiency. CLB levels range from 1 to 12, where CLB 1 indicates minimal communication ability and CLB 12 demonstrates advanced proficiency. For French, the equivalent system is called NCLC (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens).

The minimum CLB requirements vary by program: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) requires CLB 7 in all four skills. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) requires CLB 5 for NOC TEER 2/3 jobs or CLB 7 for NOC TEER 0/1 jobs. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) requires CLB 5 in Listening and Speaking, and CLB 4 in Reading and Writing. Higher CLB scores also earn you more CRS points.

For English, IRCC accepts IELTS General Training and CELPIP-General. For French, accepted tests include TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Important: IELTS Academic is NOT accepted for immigration purposes—only IELTS General Training is valid. Each test has its own scoring system that converts to CLB levels.

Your overall CLB score is determined by the lowest score among your four language skills (Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking). For example, if you score CLB 9 in Reading, CLB 8 in Writing, CLB 9 in Listening, and CLB 7 in Speaking, your overall CLB is CLB 7. This ensures you have balanced proficiency across all communication skills.

IELTS General Training scores convert to CLB as follows: Band 9 = CLB 10+, Band 8-8.5 = CLB 9, Band 7-7.5 = CLB 8, Band 6.5 = CLB 7, Band 6 = CLB 7, Band 5.5 = CLB 6, Band 5 = CLB 5, Band 4-4.5 = CLB 4. Each skill (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) is converted separately using IRCC's official conversion tables.

CELPIP-General has a direct 1:1 conversion to CLB levels. A CELPIP score of 10 equals CLB 10, score of 9 equals CLB 9, and so on down to CELPIP 4 = CLB 4. Scores below 4 are considered CLB 3 or lower. This makes CELPIP one of the most straightforward tests for CLB conversion.

You can improve your CLB score by: 1) Retaking your language test after targeted preparation—focus on your weakest skill since it determines your overall CLB. 2) Taking professional test preparation courses (like those offered by Fennec360 Academy). 3) Practicing with official test materials and timed mock exams. 4) Considering a different test format if one suits your skills better (e.g., CELPIP vs IELTS).

Immigration programs require balanced language proficiency because living and working in Canada demands competency in all four skills. You'll need to read documents, write emails, understand spoken instructions, and communicate verbally. Using the minimum ensures you can function effectively in all aspects of language use, not just your strongest areas.

No, this calculator provides estimates based on official IRCC conversion tables for educational purposes. It helps you understand where you stand before or after taking a language test. For official CLB assessments, you must take an IRCC-approved language test (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF) and use the results in your immigration application. Always verify with IRCC for the most current information.

Language test results are valid for 2 years from the date of the test for Canadian immigration purposes. You must ensure your test results are still valid when you submit your Express Entry profile and when you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA). If your results expire, you'll need to retake the test to maintain your profile eligibility.