CLB Calculator
Convert any IRCC-approved language test to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or NCLC levels — pick your test, enter your four scores, and see your level and CRS points instantly.
Last reviewed 2026-11-02 · Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Only IELTS General Training is accepted for Express Entry. IELTS One Skill Retake is not accepted.
IELTS to CLB chart
Official equivalency published by IRCC for IELTS General Training. Only IELTS General Training is accepted for Express Entry. IELTS One Skill Retake is not accepted.
| CLB | reading | writing | listening | speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 10 | 8.0+ | 7.5+ | 8.5+ | 7.5+ |
| CLB 9 | 7.0–7.5 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
| CLB 8 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
| CLB 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.0–7.0 | 6 |
| CLB 6 | 5.0–5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| CLB 5 | 4.0–4.5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| CLB 4 | 3.5 | 4.0–4.5 | 4.5 | 4.0–4.5 |
Using a different test? Jump to CELPIP, PTE Core, TEF Canada or TCF Canada — or switch the test in the converter above.
CRS points by CLB level (first official language)
| CLB per ability | Single (per ability) | With spouse (per ability) |
|---|---|---|
| CLB 10+ | 34 | 32 |
| CLB 9 | 31 | 29 |
| CLB 8 | 23 | 22 |
| CLB 7 | 17 | 16 |
| CLB 6 | 9 | 8 |
| CLB 4–5 | 6 | 6 |
| CLB below 4 | 0 | 0 |
Plug your scores into the CRS calculator to see the full effect, including skill-transferability points (CLB 7 and CLB 9 in all four abilities are the key thresholds).
Other converters: CELPIP to CLB · PTE Core to CLB · TEF to NCLC · TCF to NCLC
Source: IRCC language test equivalency charts and Express Entry language test results.
Frequently asked questions
What is CLB?+
The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) are the national standard IRCC uses to describe English ability, from 1 to 12. The French equivalent is NCLC (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens). Express Entry converts your test scores into CLB/NCLC levels for each of the four abilities.
Which language tests does IRCC accept for Express Entry?+
English: CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training and PTE Core. French: TEF Canada and TCF Canada. IELTS Academic, PTE Academic and IELTS One Skill Retake are not accepted for Express Entry.
What CLB do I need for Express Entry?+
The Federal Skilled Worker Program needs CLB 7 in all four abilities. The Canadian Experience Class needs CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs and CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs. Higher levels earn more CRS points.
How long are language test results valid?+
IRCC accepts language test results for two years from the test date, and they must be valid both when you create your profile and when you apply for permanent residence.