Express Entry Language Skills Requirements

What is CLB?

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a standard used in Canada to measure and describe the English language proficiency of adult immigrants and prospective immigrants, assessing skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through approved tests such as IELTS (International English Language Testing System), CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) for English, and TEF Canada (Test d'évaluation de français) and TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français) for French.

Program CLB Requirement
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • NOC 0 or A jobs: Minimum CLB 7
  • NOC B jobs: Minimum CLB 5
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    Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Minimum CLB 7 in all four language abilities (listening, speaking, reading, and writing)
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    Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  • Minimum CLB 5 in speaking and listening
  • CLB 4 in reading and writing
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    CLB Levels and Skill Proficiency

    CLB levels range from 1 to 12, with each level representing a specific skill proficiency. This classification helps determine the language requirements for different Express Entry programs:

    • CLB 1-4: Basic language ability. At these levels, individuals can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at satisfying concrete needs.

    • CLB 5-8: Intermediate language ability. At these levels, individuals can handle most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken. They can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest.

    • CLB 9-12: Advanced language ability. At these levels, individuals can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. They can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects.

    Need Help?

    We also have a dedicated page with a comprehensive Q&A section that addresses the most common questions about Express Entry. If you need help assessing your eligibility for Express Entry, please contact us.