Language Tests for Canadian Immigration
Most immigration programs and citizenship applications need proof of your English or French ability. IRCC accepts results only from these approved tests.
English tests
English
CELPIP-General
Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program
Computer-based, taken in one sitting. Your CELPIP level equals your CLB level. Use the General version (not General LS) for Express Entry.
Visit official siteEnglish
IELTS General Training
International English Language Testing System
Paper or computer-based. Only General Training is accepted; IELTS Academic and IELTS One Skill Retake are not accepted for Express Entry.
Visit official siteEnglish
PTE Core
Pearson Test of English Core
Computer-based with fast results. Only PTE Core is accepted; PTE Academic is not.
Visit official siteFrench tests
French
TEF Canada
Test d’évaluation de français pour le Canada
Run by the Paris Île-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Book the Canada version; other TEF versions are not accepted.
Visit official siteFrench
TCF Canada
Test de connaissance du français pour le Canada
Run by France Éducation international. Book the Canada version; other TCF versions are not accepted.
Visit official siteKey rules
- Two-year validity: results must be less than two years old when you create your Express Entry profile and when you submit your permanent residence application.
- Test all four abilities: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Your lowest score often decides your eligibility.
- French adds points: strong French results (NCLC 7 or higher in all four abilities) can add up to 50 extra CRS points.
Converting your scores to CLB/NCLC
IRCC measures language ability with the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) for English and the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for French. Our CRS calculator converts your test scores automatically, using IRCC’s official equivalency charts. You can also check your level with IRCC’s language level tool.
Language proof for citizenship
Citizenship applicants aged 18 to 54 must show speaking and listening skills at CLB/NCLC 4 or higher. Results from CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training, PTE Core, TEF Canada or TCF Canada are accepted, and so is proof that you completed a secondary or post-secondary program taught in English or French. See IRCC’s language proof for citizenship and try our citizenship practice test.
Test providers set their own fees, dates and locations. Always confirm the current list of approved tests on IRCC’s website before booking.