If you're taking the CELPIP test for Canadian immigration, you're probably wondering: what score do I actually need? The answer depends on which immigration program you're applying through — and your score can make or break your application.
In this guide, we break down exactly how CELPIP scores convert to CLB levels, the minimum requirements for each Express Entry program, and how higher scores dramatically boost your CRS points.
Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) are Canada's national standard for measuring English language proficiency. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses CLB levels to evaluate your language ability for permanent residency applications.
Every immigration program has minimum CLB requirements — and many programs reward higher CLB scores with bonus points. This means your CELPIP score directly impacts your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Unlike IELTS, where you need a conversion formula, CELPIP scores map directly to CLB levels in a 1-to-1 ratio. A CELPIP score of 7 = CLB 7. A CELPIP score of 9 = CLB 9. No complicated math required.
This direct mapping is one of the biggest advantages of choosing CELPIP over other English tests for Canadian immigration.
Here's the complete conversion table for all four skills:
| CELPIP Score | CLB Level | Proficiency Level |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | CLB 12 | Advanced (Native-like) |
| 11 | CLB 11 | Advanced |
| 10 | CLB 10 | Advanced |
| 9 | CLB 9 | Upper Intermediate |
| 8 | CLB 8 | Intermediate |
| 7 | CLB 7 | Upper Basic |
| 6 | CLB 6 | Basic |
| 5 | CLB 5 | Lower Basic |
| 4 | CLB 4 | Minimal |
| 3 | CLB 3 | Below Minimal |
Important: Each skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) is scored and converted to CLB independently. You must meet the minimum CLB level in every skill — not just your average.
The most popular Express Entry stream requires:
Requirements depend on your job's TEER category:
| Job Category | Minimum CLB | CELPIP Score Needed |
|---|---|---|
| TEER 0 or 1 (Managerial/Professional) | CLB 7 | 7 in all skills |
| TEER 2 or 3 (Technical/Skilled trades) | CLB 5 | 5 in all skills |
This program has split requirements:
Most PNPs require CLB 5 to CLB 7 depending on the province and stream. Some popular examples:
To become a Canadian citizen, you need at least CLB 4 in Speaking and Listening.
This is where it gets really important. Your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score determines whether you receive an Invitation to Apply, and language is one of the biggest point categories.
| CLB Level | Points Per Skill | Total (All 4 Skills) |
|---|---|---|
| Less than CLB 4 | 0 | 0 |
| CLB 4 or 5 | 6 | 24 |
| CLB 6 | 9 | 36 |
| CLB 7 | 17 | 68 |
| CLB 8 | 23 | 92 |
| CLB 9 | 31 | 124 |
| CLB 10+ | 34 | 136 |
| CLB Level | Points Per Skill | Total (All 4 Skills) |
|---|---|---|
| Less than CLB 4 | 0 | 0 |
| CLB 4 or 5 | 6 | 24 |
| CLB 6 | 8 | 32 |
| CLB 7 | 16 | 64 |
| CLB 8 | 22 | 88 |
| CLB 9 | 29 | 116 |
| CLB 10+ | 32 | 128 |
Look at the jump from CLB 7 to CLB 9 for single applicants:
Those 56 points can be the difference between receiving an ITA and waiting another year. According to recent data, approximately 60% of successful Express Entry candidates have CLB 9 or higher.
Here's something many candidates miss: CLB 9+ also unlocks bonus points through skill transferability factors:
This means CLB 9 doesn't just add direct language points — it multiplies the value of your education and work experience.
Based on recent Express Entry draws and CRS cutoffs, here's our recommendation:
Remember — your lowest skill matters most. If you score CELPIP 9, 9, 9, 7 — you only get CLB 7 points for that fourth skill. Focus your preparation on bringing your weakest skill up.
Practice with timed, computer-based tests. CELPIP is entirely computer-delivered, and the format matters as much as your English ability.
CELPIP scores are valid for 2 years. If you scored CLB 7 but need CLB 9, retaking the test is often the most cost-effective way to boost your CRS score by 50+ points.
Take advantage of free study guides, templates, and practice materials. Focus on understanding the scoring criteria for each section so you know exactly what evaluators look for.
If you have any French ability, taking the TEF/TCF for your second official language can add up to 24 extra CRS points — even with just CLB 5 in French.
Here's what you need to know about your scores after the test:
Yes! CELPIP is accepted for Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, and Canadian citizenship applications. You only need to take the CELPIP-General test (not the CELPIP-General LS).
Unfortunately, you must meet the minimum in every skill independently. A strong performance in other skills cannot compensate for one skill being below the threshold.
Neither test is officially "easier." However, CELPIP offers some practical advantages: it's fully computer-based, completed in one sitting, focuses on Canadian English, and scores map directly to CLB levels without conversion formulas.
There's no limit on how many times you can take CELPIP. Many successful applicants take it 2-3 times to achieve their target score.
Yes, CRS cutoffs vary with each draw. In recent draws, cutoffs have ranged from the low 400s to mid-500s depending on the program. Higher CELPIP scores give you a buffer against fluctuating cutoffs.
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