The key ideaYour file does not keep an overall score: it keeps the CLB level of each of the four tests. So your weakest test sets your goal.
Four tests, four levels
Listening and reading are scored out of 699 points. Writing and speaking are scored out of 20. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) converts each of these four results into a CLB level (NCLC in French), independently.
In practice, an excellent reading result does not make up for a lower level in speaking. Before you practise, find the test that is holding you back.
The ranges to know
Here are the thresholds from the equivalency table published by IRCC for the levels candidates most often aim for.
- CLB 7: listening 458 to 502, reading 453 to 498, writing 10 or 11, speaking 10 or 11
- CLB 8: listening 503 to 522, reading 499 to 523, writing 12 or 13, speaking 12 or 13
- CLB 9: listening 523 to 548, reading 524 to 548, writing 14 or 15, speaking 14 or 15
- CLB 10 and above: listening and reading 549 to 699, writing and speaking 16 to 20
What Express Entry asks for
For the Federal Skilled Worker Program, IRCC requires at least CLB 7 in all four abilities. The Express Entry “French-language proficiency” category also asks for a minimum of 7 in all four abilities.
Your results must be less than two years old when you complete your profile and when you apply for permanent residence. These rules can change: check them on the IRCC website before you submit your file.
Turning a level into a practice goal
A goal like “CLB 9” does not say what to do on Monday. Translate it: in comprehension, you have to hold on through the last questions, the hardest ones; in expression, you need 14 out of 20, which means structured responses and few language errors.
Checklist
- I know the CLB level my program requires, checked on the IRCC website.
- I have written down the score range to reach for each of the four tests.
- I have identified my weakest test.
- I know my results must be less than two years old when I apply.
