CELPIP levels and CLB
CELPIP gives you a level from 1 to 12 for each of the four skills. Levels 4 to 12 match Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels exactly: a CELPIP 9 in Speaking is CLB 9 in Speaking. Listening and Reading levels come from your number of correct answers out of 38. Writing and Speaking levels come from trained raters.
Results usually arrive online in 3 to 4 business days.
Minimum CLB by immigration program
| Program | Minimum CLB | Test accepted |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Worker Program | CLB 7 in all four skills | CELPIP-General |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 0 or 1 job | CLB 7 in all four skills | CELPIP-General |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 2 or 3 job | CLB 5 in all four skills | CELPIP-General |
| Federal Skilled Trades Program | CLB 5 Speaking and Listening, CLB 4 Reading and Writing | CELPIP-General |
| Canadian citizenship, ages 18 to 54 | CLB 4 Speaking and Listening | CELPIP-General LS or CELPIP-General |
For Express Entry, results must be less than 2 years old when you create your profile and when you submit your application. Source: IRCC language testing page.
Provincial programs and professional licensing bodies set their own levels. Check the exact requirement for your program before you choose a target.
Why CLB 9 matters for Express Entry
Meeting the minimum gets you into the pool, but your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score decides whether you get invited. Language is one of the biggest CRS factors. Points rise with every CLB level, and CLB 9 or higher in all four skills also unlocks the highest skill transferability points when combined with your education or foreign work experience.
For many candidates, moving from CLB 7 to CLB 9 adds more CRS points than any other change they can make in a few months. Read the full guide: What CELPIP score do you need for Express Entry?
How to raise one level
- Find the weakest skill first. Your lowest score usually limits your eligibility and CRS points.
- Speaking and Writing move fastest with feedback. Raters score specific areas, and a coach can show you exactly which ones are holding you back.
- Listening and Reading move with timed practice. Most lost points come from pacing and traps, not vocabulary.
One level can change your CRS score
A coach finds your weakest skill and builds a plan to raise it.
Questions
Is CELPIP 7 the same as CLB 7?
Yes. CELPIP levels 4 to 12 match CLB levels 4 to 12 one to one.
What CELPIP score do I need for citizenship?
Adults aged 18 to 54 need CLB 4 in Speaking and Listening. The shorter CELPIP-General LS test is accepted for citizenship.
How long are CELPIP results valid?
For Express Entry, results must be less than 2 years old when you create your profile and when you apply for permanent residence.