CANADIAN LANGUAGE BENCHMARK (CLB)
During your Canadian immigration application process, you will come across this term: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB). While it may sound intimidating there is no need to panic because it’s simply the charts used by Canadian authorities to determine your language proficiency for immigration purposes.
One of the biggest requirements is to be able to efficiently communicate in either English or French, Canada’s two official languages. The CLB shows whether your language abilities, according to language test results, meet the language requirements of an immigration program. Curious to learn more about how the CLB works? Keep reading!
What is a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)?
A Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a language test equivalency chart that is used for permanent resident applications. The CLB system converts scores from the four federal language tests (listed below) into the same equivalencies, so they can be compared to each other.
Each Canadian immigration program has specific language requirements that you should meet to qualify for the program. For example, those applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) must have a CLB score of 7 or higher in all four language abilities (listening, speaking, writing, and reading).
So, after taking a designated language test such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) you can easily convert your test results by using the CLB chart designed for the particular testing organization and determine your CLB scores.
The Canadian Language Benchmark Charts
You can determine the equivalencies between the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLBs) and the results of language tests from the four designated testing organizations below:
Designated Testing Organizations
- Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP);
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS);
- Test d’évaluation de français pour le Canada (TEF Canada); and
- Test de connaissance du français pour le Canada (TCF Canada).
Calculate your CLB levels
Discover your CLB levels for reading, writing, speaking, and listening with the easy-to-follow charts below. This will work best if you have your test results at hand to compare your test marks to the CLB equivalents. For example, if you scored 6.5 for reading on your IELTS test then your CLB level for reading is 8.
How Do the Canadian Language Benchmarks Work?
There are 10 CLB Levels. The higher someone scores in their language test, the higher their CLB levels and the more points they will receive in points assessments and ranking systems for immigration.
Keep in mind that there are different CLB language level requirements allocated to each immigration program. Generally, the highest minimum CLB levels are reserved for immigration programs that are designed for skilled applicants that fall within the National Occupational Classification (NOC) A or 0.
The CLB levels can differ by occupation (like above) and in some instances, applicants are required to have higher CLB levels for specific language abilities such as speaking and listening. See the table below for real examples.
Express Entry CLB Levels
The Express Entry system manages the three biggest Canadian immigration programs mentioned below. The programs are designed as permanent pathways for skilled foreign workers to enter the Canadian workforce. The minimum CLB levels required for each of the programs are as follows:
Express Entry Programs | |
Program | Required CLB scores |
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) | CLB 7 or higher |
Federal Skilled Trade Program (FSTP) | CLB 5 or higher for speaking and listening CLB 4 or higher for reading and writing |
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | CLB 7 or higher if your NOC is 0 or A CLB 5 or higher if your NOC is B |
FAQs: Canadian Language Benchmarks
- Where to take the Canadian Language Benchmark test?
The Canadian Language Benchmark system is not a test. Instead, it converts your test results from an approved testing organization for immigration purposes. You can book a language test at a testing center near you. Check this website to find your nearest IELTS testing center, one of the most popular English tests for Canadian immigration.
- How much does IELTS cost?
Unfortunately, there is no easy answer since many IELTS test fees depend on the testing center and the country in which the test is being taken. The IELTS exam fees can range between USD $140 – $310.
- How do you calculate your overall CLB level?
Open Doors to Canada with Chugo Immigration Service
There are over 100 immigration and visa options available and the majority of them have their own unique CLB level requirements. At Chugo Immigration Service, we can help you find a program that suits your language abilities as well as your personal and career history. Simply, enter your details in the form below to start your online eligibility evaluation.
Optimize your chances of success!
What are your options for Canadian Immigration? You can consider any of the following pathways to Canadian Immigration:
- Provincial Nominee Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
- Humanitarian and Compassionate
- Study to Immigrate
- Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program
- How to Become a Canadian Citizen: Applying for Canadian Citizenship
- Family Sponsorship
- Spousal Sponsorship
- Express Entry
- Skilled Workers
- Caregivers
- Investors and Entrepreneurs
- Refugee and Asylum
- Visa rejections/Appeals
Chugo Immigration Service is authorized to offer Canadian Immigration and Citizenship services under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The Principal Consultant, Pius Chukwuma Ekwulugo RCIC, is a member in good standing of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) and has helped many foreigners to start a new life in Canada. We will help you too!
For effective and diligent legal help regarding Canadian Immigration matters, we partner with Weekes Law Office.
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
Are you looking for an immigration pathway to Canada? If you do not know where to look and how to start, we invite you to book an eligibility consultation with us. We will prepare an individualized assessment report for you and guide you on your immigration journey to Canada.
We advise you to complete the assessment questionnaire now in order to properly plan your application.