Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Express Entry

Understanding IELTS Scores for Canada PR

IELTS Band Score System

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognized test designed to measure the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers. The British Council jointly manages it, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. The IELTS test assesses four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Each skill is scored on a band scale of 1 to 9, where:

• Band 1: Non-user
• Band 2: Intermittent user
• Band 3: Extremely limited user
• Band 4: Limited user
• Band 5: Modest user
• Band 6: Competent user
• Band 7: Good user
• Band 8: Very good user
• Band 9: Expert user

For immigration purposes, candidates must take the IELTS General Training test. The scores from each section are averaged to provide an overall band score.

Canada has two official languages – English and French. This means that any skilled immigrants who want to move to Canada, they have to prove language proficiency in either of the two languages or both. To show proficiency in English language candidates is required to take language examinations that are recognized by the federal government of Canada.

Following are language examination to prove proficiency in the English language:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)

For French language, following are the recognized examination to prove proficiency:

• TEF Canada (Test devaluation de francais)
• TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du francais)

Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Explained

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is the national standard used in Canada to used in Canada to evaluate, document, and acknowledge the English language competency of adult immigrants and potential immigrants is the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB). With each level correlating to certain language competencies in reading, writing, hearing, and speaking, the CLB runs from 1 to 12.

Following is the table that illustrates how to translate your IELTS score to CLB levels:

IELTS Band for Canada PR Visa 2024

The best IELTS score required for Canada PR is 10 band to get 32 to 34 CRS points. The ideal IELTS score required for Canada PR is 6 band which makes you eligible for PNPs.

Taking IELTS is mandatory for immigrants who want to move to Canada. One of the best ways to move to Canada is through Canada PR Visa. To familiarize the test scores under different language tests, Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has a system known as the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB).

The Express Entry programme is one of the fastest ways to apply for a Canada PR Visa. It uses a scoring system that assigns points based on characteristics such as age, employment experience, language competency, etc.

Following tables demonstrate how points are awarded under the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) system for IELTS examinations:

For the first official language

Types of IELTS Tests: Academics vs. General Training

Two main variants of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are Academic and General Training. Although they evaluate English language competency, their uses differ. We look at the main variations and parallels between the two tests below.

Two official languages of Canada are English and French. Any skilled immigrant wishing to migrate to Canada must so demonstrate language competency in any of the two languages or both. Candidates demonstrating mastery of English language must pass language tests approved by the federal government of Canada.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the worlds most popular high stakes English language tests. It measures the proficiency of people who want to study or work. It uses a nine-band scale to measure the proficiency of the candidate from non-user (score 1) through to expert (score 9).

Mainly there are two types of IETLS Test: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training:

• IELTS AcademicThis test is for candidates applying for higher education in English speaking country
• IELTS General Training – This test is for candidates who are going to English speaking country for work experience or training programs. It is mandatory for immigrating to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK

Candidates are tested in four abilities: Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes. Listening, Reading and Writing sections all can be completed on the same day, while listening can be completed before or after one week from the other tests.

Similarities

Remember that both the IELTS Academic and General Training tests evaluate four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each test lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Listening and Speaking sections are the same in both tests, but the Reading and Writing sections are different.

Test Structure:

• Listening: 30 minutes
• Reading: 60 minutes
• Writing: 60 minutes
• Speaking: 11-14 minutes

Differences

Purpose:

• IELTS Academic: Those who want to seek professional registration or further study in an English-speaking setting might find this edition ideal. It assesses a candidate's readiness for starting a professional career or for education.
• IELTS General Training: This test is suitable for those migrating to an English-speaking country (e.g., Canada, Australia, the UK) or for individuals seeking work experience or training programs. It focuses on basic survival skills in broad social and workplace contexts.

Reading Section:

• Academic: The reading materials include three long texts ranging from descriptive and factual to discursive and analytical. These materials, which come from books, journals, periodicals, and newspapers, are suitable for anyone registering professionally or starting college courses.
• General Training: The reading materials include company handbooks, guidelines, notices, ads, book, magazine, newspaper extractions. In an English-speaking world, these books most certainly come across daily.

Writing Section:

• Academic: Candidates in Task 1 must either explain, summarise, or describe material shown in a graph, table, chart, or diagram. With an eye towards formal academic language, Task 2 consists in producing an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.
• General Training: Candidates in Task 1 have to draft a letter depending on a specified scenario, maybe official, semi-formal, or personal. Like the Academic test, Task 2 consists in producing an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or topic, but it can be less formal.

Comparison Table

Minimum IELTS Scores for Canada PR

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

Candidates for the Federal Skilled Worker Programme (FSWP) must meet a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7, corresponding to an IELTS score of 6.0 in each language skill: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This score is absolutely important since it shows a sufficient degree of English competency required in professional environments.

Minimum IELTS Scores for FSWP:

“The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) requires candidates to achieve a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 7.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Language requirements for the Federal Skilled Trades Programme (FSTP) are somewhat less than those for the FSWP. Candidates must get a CLB level of 4 for reading and writing and a level of 5 for listening and speaking. This yields the IELTS scores shown below:

Minimum IELTS Scores for FSTP:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) programme calls for varying IELTs depending on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. Minimum CLB level of 7 is needed for positions categorised as NOC TEER 0 or 1. Minimum CLB level of 5 is required for positions under NOC TEER 2 or 3.

Minimum IELTS Scores for CEC:

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP) criteria differ depending on province. Like the FSWP, most PNPs normally demand a minimum IELTS score comparable to a CLB level of 7. Some regions, meanwhile, can allow lesser marks for specific streams. Under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Programme (SINP), for instance, a CLB level of 4 would translate to an IELTS score of 4.5 in Listening, 3.5 in Reading, 4.0 in Writing, and 4.0 in Speaking.

Minimum IELTS Scores for PNPs:

Generally, most PNPs require a minimum IELTS score equivalent to a CLB level of 7.

IELTS Score Requirements for Different Immigration Programs

Express Entry Program

The Express Entry Programme, a favoured immigration pathway to Canada, is comprised of three primary federal immigration programmes. These programmes are the Federal Skilled Worker Programme (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Programme (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Here is a list of the minimum required score on the International English Language Testing System for each programme:

Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP):

• Minimum CLB Level: 7
• IELTS Scores: 6.0 in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP):

• Minimum CLB Level: 5 for Listening and Speaking, 4 for Reading and Writing
• IELTS Scores:
• CLB 5: Listening 5.0, Reading 4.0, Speaking 5.0, Writing 5.0
• CLB 4: Listening 4.5, Reading 3.5, Speaking 4.0, Writing 4.0

Canadian Experience Class (CEC):

NOC TEER 0 or 1 (higher-skilled jobs):

• Minimum CLB Level: 7
• IELTS Scores: 6.0 in all sections

NOC TEER 2 or 3 (technical and skilled trades):

• Minimum CLB Level: 5
• IELTS Scores: Listening 5.0, Reading 4.0, Speaking 5.0, Writing 5.0

Provincial Nominee Programs

Within the framework of Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs), provinces and territories are granted the authority to nominate individuals for permanent residence on the basis of their economic and labour requirements. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) minimum score can differ significantly from one province to another and from one specific stream to another. For the majority of PNPs, a minimum CLB level of seven is prerequisite, which is equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.0 in each section. Conversely, other programmes may be amenable to accepting lower scores, particularly for specific streams:

General PNPs:

• Minimum CLB Level: 7
• IELTS Scores: 6.0 in each section

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP):

• Minimum CLB Level: 4
• IELTS Scores: Listening 4.5, Reading 3.5, Speaking 4.0, Writing 4.0

Other Pathways (e.g., Family Sponsorship)

There are no specific IELTS scores required for family sponsorship programmes. The primary emphasis of these programmes is on the relationship between the sponsor and the sponsored individual, not on language proficiency. Nonetheless, the sponsored individual may benefit from a strong command of English or French in terms of employment and integration into Canada.

IELTS Test Structure and Preparation

Listening Section

The IELTS Listening section is identical for both the Academic and General Training versions. There are four recorded monologues and conversations that candidates are required to listen to and subsequently respond to questions about. This section is comprised of 40 questions, which are divided into four sections and last for 30 minutes:

• Section 1: A conversation between two people set in an everyday social context.Section 2: A monologue set in an everyday social context.
• Section 2: A monologue set in an everyday social context.
• Section 3: A conversation between up to four people set in an educational or training context.
• Section 4: A monologue on an academic subject.

Tips for Preparation:

• Ensure your headphones work properly; raise your hand if they don’t.
• Use the time given to read through the questions before the recording starts.
• Focus on listening for answers rather than understanding everything.
• Take notes on the question paper.
• Review your answers for spelling and grammar errors before submission.

Reading Section

The Reading section differs between Academic and General Training tests. Both versions last 60 minutes and contain 40 questions.

Academic Reading:

• It contains three long texts, ranging from descriptive and factual to discursive and analytical, sourced from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers.

General Training Reading:

• Contains five or six books ranging in length from sources including company manuals, ads, and newspapers.

Tips for Preparation:

• Learn skimming and scanning methods to locate material fast.
• Pay special attention to grasping the key concepts and specifics.
• Be exact and grammatically right.
• Spend little time on challenging questions; move on and come back to them later.

Writing Section

The Writing section has a duration of 60 minutes and comprises two tasks, which vary between the Academic and General Training versions.

Academic Writing:

• Task 1: requires the description, summary, or explanation of information that is presented in a graph, table, chart, or diagram. The response should consist of a minimum of 150 words.
• Task 2: Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem in at least 250 words.

General Training Writing:

• Task 1: Write a letter in response to a situation, which may be personal, semi-formal, or formal.
• Task 2: Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem in at least 250 words.

Tips for Preparation:

• Spend 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2.
• Write clearly and concisely, avoiding repetition.
• Ensure your response is well-organized and includes a conclusion.
• Proofread your work for any mistakes.

Speaking Section

The Speaking section is identical in duration, lasting between 11 and 14 minutes, for both the Academic and General Training versions. The subject matter is partitioned into three distinct sections:

• Part 1: Introduction and interview (4-5 minutes) regarding familiar subjects such as residence, family, employment, and education.
• Part 2: of the speaking test is a 3–4-minute turn to explain a cue card topic.
• Part 3: of the discussion will involve answering questions that are related to the topic discussed in Part 2. This part will last for approximately 4-5 minutes.

Tips for Preparation:

• Practice speaking about various topics to build fluency and confidence.
• Structure your responses clearly with an introduction, main points, and a conclusion.
• Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
• Listen carefully to the examiners questions and answer fully.

IELTS Score Conversion: CLB to IELTS

Conversion Tables

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) system checks how well people speak a language in order to let them come to Canada. To meet the needs of different immigration programmes, scores on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) need to be changed into CLB levels. An IELTS score to a CLB level chart for each of the four language skills is shown below: Hearing, Reading, Writing, and Talking

IELTS to CLB Conversion Table:

Examples of Score Equivalencies

Knowing how your IELTS score compares to the CLB level can help you figure out if you are eligible for different Canadian immigration programmes. To show how the conversion works, here are some examples:

Example 1:

• IELTS Scores: Listening 8.0, Reading 7.0, Writing 7.0, Speaking 7.0
• CLB Levels: Listening 9, Reading 9, Writing 9, Speaking 9

Example 2:

• IELTS Scores: Listening 7.5, Reading 6.0, Writing 6.0, Speaking 6.0
• CLB Levels: Listening 8, Reading 7, Writing 7, Speaking 7

Example 3:

• IELTS Scores: Listening 6.0, Reading 6.0, Writing 6.0, Speaking 6.0
• CLB Levels: Listening 7, Reading 7, Writing 7, Speaking 7

You need to know these conversions in order to be eligible for immigration programmes like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Programme (FSWP), and the Federal Skilled Trades Programme (FSTP). For instance, the FSWP usually needs a minimum CLB level of 7 in all skills, which is the same as an IELTS score of 6.0 in each section.

Impact of IELTS Scores on Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)

How IELTS Scores Affect CRS Points

Canadian immigration authorities use the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to assess and rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. Your CRS score is crucial as it directly impacts your eligibility and chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency.

CRS Breakdown for Language Proficiency:

Language Proficiency Points:

• The maximum number of points that can be obtained for the first official language (English or French) is 136 points with a spouse and 150 points without a spouse.
• The points are evenly allocated across the four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Skill Transferability Factors:

• Having a high level of language proficiency, along with either post-secondary education or Canadian job experience, will greatly enhance your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
• For instance, attaining a significant level of language competence (CLB 9 or higher) can result in the addition of up to 50 extra points for skill transferability.

Maximum points for each ability (reading, writing, speaking and listening):

• 32 with a spouse or common-law partner
• 34 without a spouse or common-law partner

Strategies to Improve CRS Score with Better IELTS Results

Retake the IELTS Test:

• Getting better results on the IELTS can have a direct effect on your CRS points. A higher band score can mean more points for both language skills and skills that can be used in other situations. This is especially true when other factors like schooling and work experience are added in.

Enhance Language Skills:

• Aim for CLB 9 or higher in all language abilities. This can significantly improve your CRS score because of the extra points awarded for high proficiency and skill transferability.
• Use preparation tools like practice tests and language courses to improve your listening, reading, writing, and speaking abilities.

Gain Additional Education or Certification:

• Higher education or additional certifications can increase your education factor and skill transferability points when combined with high language proficiency.

Secure a Job Offer in Canada:

• A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can add up to 200 CRS points, greatly increasing your chances of receiving an ITA.
• Factors such as having a spouse with strong language skills, prior Canadian work or study experience, or having a sibling in Canada can all contribute to your CRS score.

Maximize Adaptability Factors:

• Factors such as having a spouse with high language skills, previous Canadian work or study experience, or having a sibling in Canada can add additional points to your CRS score.

Canada Express Entry IELTS Score

To be eligible for Canada’s Express Entry program for Canada PR Visa, candidates are required to have a minimum of an IELTS score of 6 per band or CLB level 7. Once an immigrant is able to score an IELTS score of 6 per band then they are able to create an express profile and submit it into the express pool.

IELTS Fees For Canada PR

Irrespective of the type of exam you take (Paper-based or Computer-based), fees for taking an IELTS examination is INR 17,000.

Both types of the exam can be taken in any one of the British Council official test centers.

Canada PR Visa without IELTS

As discussed above, in order to move to Canada giving an IELTS examination is mandatory. But unlike the express entry program, there is also some other immigration program that allows the candidate to apply for a Canada PR visa with a low IELTS score.

Every province in Canada (except Quebec) has an immigration program that always allows them to nominate skilled immigrants for permanent residence in respective province, these immigration programs are known as Provincial Nominee Program (PNPs).

These PNPs have their own requirements that are based on the demands of the local labour market. Some of the PNPs have low requirements for the IELTS score. Some of the PNPs are as follows:

• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): Minimum IELTS score of 4.5
• Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): Minimum IELTS score of 4.5
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): Minimum IELTS score of 4.5

AIPP (Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program) also has a low IELTS score requirement. Candidate applying for Canada PR Visa through AIPP, are required to get minimum CLB level 4 that translates to IELTS score of 4.5, 3.5, 4.0 & 4.0 in Listening, Reading, Writing and speaking respectively.

Additional Resources

Official IELTS Practice Materials

The official IELTS practice materials are crucial for anyone aiming to achieve a high score on the test. The IELTS partners, including the British Council, IDP IELTS, and Cambridge English, provide these materials. They offer a range of resources to help you prepare effectively:

• Sample Test Questions: These include examples of the types of questions you will encounter in the Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections. They help you understand the test format and the kinds of tasks you will be required to complete (IELTS) (British Council Take IELTS).
• Practice Papers: Official practice papers mimic the actual test conditions, allowing you to practice under timed conditions. They come with answer keys and sample answers to help you evaluate your performance​ ( IELTS ).
• Preparation Books: Books such as the "Official IELTS Practice Materials Volume 1 & 2" offer comprehensive practice tests and tips from IELTS examiners ( IELTS )​.

Online Courses and Tutoring Options

Online courses and tutoring options provide flexible and interactive ways to prepare for the IELTS exam. Some reputable platforms and resources include:

• British Council Online Courses: The British Council offers a variety of online courses that include video lessons, interactive exercises, and practice tests. These courses are designed to improve your skills in all four test areas (British Council Take IELTS).
• IELTS Online: This platform offers both free and paid courses, including full practice tests, video lessons, and personalized feedback from IELTS experts. It's a comprehensive way to prepare for the test from the comfort of your home​ ( IELTS )​.
• Webinars and Apps: The British Council and other IELTS partners offer free webinars and mobile apps that provide tips, practice exercises, and strategies for each section of the test​ (IELTS)​ (British Council Take IELTS).

IELTS Coaching Centers

For those who prefer in-person guidance, IELTS coaching centres provide structured learning environments and personalized instruction:

• British Council Learning Hubs: Located worldwide, these centres offer face-to-face classes with experienced teachers. They provide intensive preparation courses that cover all aspects of the IELTS test (IELTS).
• IDP IELTS Coaching: IDP offers coaching sessions at various centres globally. These sessions include detailed feedback on practice tests, strategies for each section, and tips to improve your overall performance (British Council Take IELTS).
• Local Language Schools: Many local language schools and institutes also offer IELTS preparation courses. These courses often include mock tests, personalized feedback, and strategies tailored to the individual needs of the students.

Comments

Vineet Sethi

Hello, with scores of 8 in writing, 7 in reading, 6 in speaking, and 8 in listening, can i apply for Canada express entry? Does my overall crs score meet the current cut-off?

2024 July 01 02:15

Abhishek Rai

To obtain Canada pr through the Express Entry system, what is the minimum ielts score required? What are the variations in the required scores across the different immigration program under express entry?

2024 June 30 12:05

Shallu Bhalla

I want to apply for Canada pr. Is there any way to obtain pr without taking the ielts exam?

2024 June 14 11:01

Pankaj Sejwal

my elder brother in canada last 4 years with Canadian pr what is the ielts score required for me to apply canada pr visa via express entry program?

2024 May 10 06:29

Reena Roy

What are my possibilities to get pr visa for Canada having 4+ years of work experience, an MBA degree in India, and an IELTS score required?

2024 May 02 10:21

Harish Bajaj

Is an IELTS score required for Canada with 8 years of work experience? How do I apply?

2024 April 03 03:14

Cheenu Singh

Do we need to clear IELTS exam before going to Canada for further high studies?

2024 Feb 16 09:35

Abhishek Pal

I’m planning to write an IELTS exam in General Training Test, so that I can migrate to Canada and work over there. How do I start preparing for it?

2024 Feb 02 11:11

Hemant Choudhary

i don't want to give ielts it is possible to get pr in canada

2024 Jan 30 04:03