CLB Calculator
Convert your CELPIP or IELTS scores to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) instantly, and see your estimated Express Entry CRS language points.
Estimates based on IRCC equivalency charts. Always confirm with the official IRCC requirements.
What is the CLB?
The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) is the national standard Canada uses to describe English ability on a scale from CLB 1 (basic) to CLB 12 (advanced). Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses your CLB level — not your raw test score — to decide eligibility for Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs and citizenship.
CELPIP to CLB conversion
CELPIP-General uses the same scale as the CLB, so the conversion is one-to-one:
| CELPIP level | CLB level |
|---|---|
| CELPIP 12 | CLB 12 |
| CELPIP 11 | CLB 11 |
| CELPIP 10 | CLB 10 |
| CELPIP 9 | CLB 9 |
| CELPIP 8 | CLB 8 |
| CELPIP 7 | CLB 7 |
| CELPIP 6 | CLB 6 |
| CELPIP 5 | CLB 5 |
| CELPIP 4 | CLB 4 |
| CELPIP 3 | CLB 3 |
Need the full CELPIP raw-score and IELTS comparison? See the detailed CELPIP score chart.
CLB levels needed for Canadian immigration
| Program | Minimum CLB | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Express Entry — Federal Skilled Worker | CLB 7+ | Minimum to be eligible; CLB 9+ maximises CRS points. |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | CLB 7 / CLB 5 | CLB 7 for TEER 0–1 jobs, CLB 5 for TEER 2–3. |
| Most Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) | CLB 7+ | Varies by province and stream. |
| Canadian Citizenship | CLB 4+ | Speaking & Listening only. |
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert my CELPIP score to CLB?
CELPIP-General is reported on the same scale as the Canadian Language Benchmarks, so your CELPIP level is your CLB level — CELPIP 9 equals CLB 9. Immigration programs use the lowest of your four skill scores.
What CLB do I need for Express Entry?
The Federal Skilled Worker program requires a minimum of CLB 7 in each skill, but CLB 9 or higher earns the most Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. The Canadian Experience Class needs CLB 7 for TEER 0–1 jobs and CLB 5 for TEER 2–3 jobs.
How does IELTS convert to CLB?
IELTS General Training bands map to CLB using IRCC's official chart, and the conversion differs by skill. For example, CLB 9 needs Listening 8.0, Reading 7.0, Writing 7.0 and Speaking 7.0.
Is CELPIP or IELTS better for immigration?
Both are accepted by IRCC and convert to the same CLB levels. CELPIP is fully computer-delivered with Canadian English and a 1:1 CLB scale, which many test-takers in Canada find more intuitive.
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