The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a standard reference to assess and represent language proficiency in English and French Language for the purpose of Canadian Immigration and job market.
Several Canadian immigration programs require you to show proficiency level in English or French language. This method determines the proficiency in one of these languages from 0 to 10 level. The charts below show the language proficiency for different language tests include IELTS, CELPIP and TEF.
You will be required to have at least CLB 7 to be eligible for the Federal Skilled Workers Program and CLB 6 for the Federal Skilled Trade Program under the Express Entry System based on tier level of your job.
IELTS to CLB
Referring to the conversion chart below, you can accurately identify their CLB levels corresponding to their IELTS scores. This will help you in smoothly navigating immigration procedures and integrating into Canadian society.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) General Training – Test score equivalency chart
| CLB LEVEL | READING | WRITING | LISTENING | SPEAKING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 10 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 7.5 |
| CLB 9 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 7.0 |
| CLB 8 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
| CLB 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| CLB 6 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| CLB 5 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| CLB 4 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 |
Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) to CLB
Below is the confession chart which can help you easily determine their CLB levels based on their CELPIP scores, facilitating their immigration process and successful integration into Canadian society
Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) General 2014 Test score equivalency chart for reports issued on or after April 1, 2014
| CLB LEVEL | READING | WRITING | LISTENING | SPEAKING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| CLB 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| CLB 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| CLB 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| CLB 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| CLB 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) to CLB
En consultant le tableau de conversion, les individus peuvent aisément établir le lien entre leurs résultats au TEF et les niveaux CLB, ce qui facilite leurs démarches d’immigration et leur intégration réussie dans la société canadienne.
Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) – Test score equivalency chart for reports issued on or after April 1, 2014
| CLB LEVEL | READING | WRITING | LISTENING | SPEAKING |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 10 | 263-277 | 393-415 | 316-333 | 393-415 |
| CLB 9 | 248-262 | 371-392 | 298-315 | 371-392 |
| CLB 8 | 233-247 | 349-370 | 280-297 | 349-370 |
| CLB 7 | 207-232 | 310-348 | 249-279 | 310-348 |
| CLB 6 | 181-206 | 271-309 | 217-248 | 271-309 |
| CLB 5 | 151-180 | 226-270 | 181-216 | 226-270 |
| CLB 4 | 121-150 | 181-225 | 145-180 | 181-225 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a CLB chart, and why is it important for immigrants to Canada?
A CLB chart is the reference used by Canadian immigration, and agencies to help understand the Language requirement for candidates better. It’s crucial for immigrants as it helps them understand and demonstrate the language abilities required to get settled into Canadian society, including job opportunities and immigration processes.
How do I use a CLB chart to assess my language proficiency?
You can use a CLB chart to assess your language proficiency by comparing your language skills and abilities in reading, writing, listening, and speaking to the descriptions provided for each CLB level. This chart will let you know where do you stand in language requirement for Canadian immigration.
Can I use the CLB chart for both English and French language proficiency assessments?
Yes, the CLB chart is designed to assess language proficiency in both English and French. It provides a standardized framework for evaluating language skills in either language, making it applicable for individuals seeking proficiency assessment in either English or French, or both.
How do I convert my language test scores (such as IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) to CLB levels?
Language proficiency tests like IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF can be converted into CLB levels through conversion tables from mentioned above. These tables link test scores to CLB levels, simplifying the process to find the required language skills in Canada
What CLB level do I need to qualify for Canadian immigration programs?
CLB levels needed for Canadian immigration can differ by program and stream. Skilled immigration, like Express Entry, usually needs higher CLB levels based on the tier level of your job. Some provincial nominee programs or family sponsorships may accept lower levels.
