When applying for permanent residency in Canada through programs like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), or other federal immigration streams, demonstrating proficiency in English is a critical part of the process. One of the most common ways to prove your language ability is through the IELTS General Training test, but the Canadian immigration system evaluates your results using the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) system.
At Saranova Immigration Inc., we often get asked: “How do my IELTS scores translate to CLB levels?” This blog breaks it down for you.
What Is CLB?
The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is the official standard used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to describe, measure, and recognize English language proficiency for immigration purposes.
CLB levels range from CLB 1 to CLB 12, covering four skill areas:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
IELTS General to CLB Conversion Chart
Here’s how your IELTS General Training scores convert to CLB levels:
| CLB Level | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
| CLB 4 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| CLB 5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| CLB 6 | 5.5 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| CLB 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| CLB 8 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| CLB 9 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| CLB 10+ | 8.5–9.0 | 8.0–9.0 | 7.5–9.0 | 7.5–9.0 |
Why CLB Matters for Immigration
Different immigration pathways in Canada have minimum CLB requirements. Here’s how your CLB level can impact your application:
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program)
- Minimum requirement: CLB 7 in all abilities.
- To maximize points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), CLB 9 or higher is ideal. This is known as the “magic score” for many because it can boost your CRS significantly, especially if you have Canadian work experience or education.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- For NOC TEER 0 or 1 jobs: CLB 7
- For NOC TEER 2 or 3 jobs: CLB 5
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Requirements vary by province, but CLB 5 to 7 is common for most streams.
- Some PNPs targeting intermediate-skilled workers may accept CLB 4.
Tips for Test Takers
- Know Your Target CLB: Understand the minimum CLB you need based on your immigration goal.
- Aim Higher Than Minimums: Even if CLB 7 is enough to qualify, CLB 9+ can help you stand out in Express Entry.
- Prepare Wisely: Take IELTS prep seriously—consider coaching, practice tests, or online programs.
- Keep Validity in Mind: IELTS scores are valid for 2 years for immigration purposes.
Real-Life Example
Let’s say you’re applying through Express Entry as a Federal Skilled Worker and score the following in IELTS:
- Listening: 7.5
- Reading: 6.5
- Writing: 6.5
- Speaking: 6.5
Your CLB level would be 8, which gives you a solid CRS boost compared to just meeting the minimum CLB 7. One additional band in each skill could raise you to CLB 9 and increase your CRS even more—especially when combined with Canadian work experience.
Need Help with Language Requirements?
At Saranova Immigration Inc., we help clients:
- Understand their language score requirements
- Choose the best immigration program
- Maximize their CRS scores
- Prepare documentation correctly
Whether you’re planning to write the IELTS soon or already have your results, we can guide you on the next steps toward your Canadian dream.📩 Book a consultation today and let’s map out your pathway to PR with confidence.
