Minimum CELPIP scores for Express Entry
CELPIP levels match CLB levels one to one, so a CELPIP 7 equals CLB 7. Express Entry accepts CELPIP-General only. The shorter LS test is not accepted for permanent residence.
| Program | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Worker | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 0 or 1 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 2 or 3 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Federal Skilled Trades | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
Your results must be less than 2 years old when you create your profile and when you submit your application. Source: IRCC, checked November 3, 2026.
Minimum is not the target
Meeting the minimum lets you enter the pool. Your CRS score decides whether you get an invitation. Language is one of the largest parts of the CRS:
- You earn points for each skill, and the points rise with every CLB level.
- At CLB 9 or higher in all four skills, you also get the highest skill transferability points when combined with a post-secondary degree or foreign work experience.
- Your lowest skill often decides those transferability points, so one weak skill can hold back your whole score.
Use the official CRS tool to see how many points CLB 9 would add for you.
How to go from CLB 7 to CLB 9
- Find your weakest skill. Take a timed practice test or book a 60-minute session for an assessment.
- Focus there first. Raising one skill from 7 to 9 is usually easier than raising all four by one level.
- For Speaking and Writing, get feedback. These are scored by raters on specific areas. Practice without feedback often repeats the same mistakes.
- For Listening and Reading, fix pacing and traps. Most lost points come from time pressure and distractor options.
See also: CELPIP scores and CLB levels · 4-week study plan.
One level can mean an invitation
Book a session on your weakest skill and build a plan to reach CLB 9.
Questions
What is the minimum CELPIP score for Express Entry?
For the Federal Skilled Worker Program it is CELPIP 7 (CLB 7) in all four skills. Other programs differ: see the table above.
Is CELPIP-General LS accepted for Express Entry?
No. Express Entry needs CELPIP-General, which tests all four skills. CELPIP-General LS is for citizenship.
Does CLB 9 give more CRS points?
Yes. Points rise with each level, and CLB 9 in all four skills unlocks the highest skill transferability points with education or foreign work experience.