Express Entry Language Test Requirements
Express Entry Language Test Requirements are a critical part of your Canadian immigration application. Before you can submit your Express Entry profile, you must complete an approved language test in English or French and meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) levels. This guide explains everything you need to know about language test requirements, approved tests, and how to match your test results to official standards.
Language Test Requirements – Table of Contents
- Language Test Requirements – Table of Contents
- Take a Language Test for Express Entry Language Test Requirements
- Approved Language Tests for Express Entry Language Test Requirements
- Language Test Requirements by Immigration Program
- Understanding CLB and NCLC Levels
- Validity of Language Test Results
- Final Notes
Take a Language Test for Express Entry Language Test Requirements
To qualify for Express Entry, you must complete one of the approved language tests listed below and meet the Express Entry Language Test Requirements.
To complete this step:
-
Book your test with an agency that is officially recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
-
Pay the testing fee directly to the testing agency.
-
Submit your results when you create your Express Entry profile, including your test certificate number and, if requested, your test PIN.
Important: If you have a disability that prevents you from completing a standard test, special accommodations may be available.
Approved Language Tests for Express Entry Language Test Requirements
You must take one of the following approved tests:
For English:
-
CELPIP-General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
-
IELTS General Training (International English Language Testing System)
(Note: IELTS One Skill Retake is not accepted for Express Entry.) -
PTE Core (Pearson Test of English Core)
For French:
-
TEF Canada (Test d’évaluation de français)
-
TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français)
Language Test Requirements by Immigration Program
Your minimum required language score depends on the program you are applying to:
1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
-
For NOC TEER 0 or 1:
-
Minimum English Level: CLB 7
-
Minimum French Level: NCLC 7
-
-
For NOC TEER 2 or 3:
-
Minimum English Level: CLB 5
-
Minimum French Level: NCLC 5
-
2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Minimum Level for All 4 Language Abilities:
-
English: CLB 7
-
French: NCLC 7
Second Official Language:
If you choose to submit scores in a second official language, the minimum requirement to gain additional points is CLB 5 or NCLC 5.
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Minimum Language Requirements:
-
English:
-
Speaking and Listening: CLB 5
-
Reading and Writing: CLB 4
-
-
French:
-
Speaking and Listening: NCLC 5
-
Reading and Writing: NCLC 4
-
Understanding CLB and NCLC Levels
Canada uses two standards to measure language proficiency:
-
Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English
-
Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) for French
You can use your test results to determine your corresponding CLB or NCLC level.
Validity of Language Test Results
Your language test results must be less than two years old when you:
-
Submit your Express Entry profile, and
-
Submit your application for permanent residence.
⚠️ Warning:
If your language test results expire before you submit your permanent residence application, your application will be refused.
If your test results are expiring:
-
Retake the language test, or
-
Submit your application before expiry, or
-
Decline your invitation to apply and return to the Express Entry pool to await a future invitation.
Final Notes
Following the Express Entry Language Test Requirements ensures your eligibility for Canadian immigration programs. Achieving higher language scores can significantly increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and improve your chances of being invited to apply.
