CLB Calculator
Convert your language test scores (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF) to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels for immigration.
Your CLB Levels
Skill | Your Score | CLB Level |
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Table of Contents
The Ultimate Guide to CLB Calculator: Convert IELTS, CELPIP & TEF Scores to CLB
Introduction
If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, understanding the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is crucial. Whether you’re applying for Express Entry, a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or Canadian citizenship, your language test scores (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF) must be converted to CLB levels.
But how do you calculate your CLB score? That’s where a CLB Calculator comes in! This guide will explain:
✔ What CLB is and why it matters
✔ How to convert IELTS, CELPIP, and TEF scores to CLB
✔ How to use a free online CLB Calculator
✔ Tips to improve your language test scores for immigration
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to determine your CLB level and maximize your Canadian immigration points.
What is CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark)?
The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a standardized system used to measure English and French language proficiency for immigration, citizenship, and employment in Canada.
Key Features of CLB:
- Ranges from CLB 1 (Beginner) to CLB 12 (Advanced)
- Used for Express Entry, PNPs, and Citizenship applications
- Accepted tests:
- English: IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General
- French: TEF Canada, TCF Canada
Your CLB level determines how many Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points you get in Express Entry. Higher CLB = More points!
Why Do You Need a CLB Calculator?
Since language tests like IELTS, CELPIP, and TEF use different scoring systems, converting them to CLB manually can be confusing. A CLB Calculator helps you:
✅ Instantly convert test scores to CLB
✅ Check eligibility for Express Entry & PNPs
✅ Plan your language test strategy
✅ Avoid mistakes in immigration applications
How to Use a CLB Calculator
A CLB Calculator is simple to use:
- Select your test type (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF).
- Enter your scores (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking).
- Click “Calculate” to see your CLB levels.
Example:
If you scored IELTS 7.5 (Listening), 8.0 (Reading), 7.0 (Writing), 7.5 (Speaking), your CLB levels would be:
- Listening: CLB 9
- Reading: CLB 10
- Writing: CLB 8
- Speaking: CLB 9
CLB Conversion Charts (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF)
1. IELTS to CLB (General Training)
IELTS Score | CLB Level |
---|---|
9.0 | 12 |
8.5 | 11 |
8.0 | 10 |
7.5 | 9 |
7.0 | 8 |
6.5 | 7 |
6.0 | 6 |
5.5 | 5 |
5.0 | 4 |
4.5 | 3 |
4.0 | 2 |
Below 4.0 | 1 |
2. CELPIP to CLB
CELPIP Score | CLB Level |
---|---|
12 | 12 |
11 | 11 |
10 | 10 |
9 | 9 |
8 | 8 |
7 | 7 |
6 | 6 |
5 | 5 |
4 | 4 |
3 | 3 |
2 | 2 |
1 | 1 |
3. TEF (French) to CLB
TEF Score | CLB Level |
---|---|
372+ | 12 |
349-371 | 11 |
310-348 | 10 |
271-309 | 9 |
226-270 | 8 |
181-225 | 7 |
145-180 | 6 |
121-144 | 5 |
91-120 | 4 |
61-90 | 3 |
31-60 | 2 |
Below 31 | 1 |
How CLB Affects Your Canadian Immigration
1. Express Entry CRS Points
- CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0) = Minimum for Federal Skilled Worker Program
- CLB 9 (IELTS 7.0) = Maximum points for language (Express Entry)
- CLB 10+ (IELTS 8.0) = Bonus points for “Strong Language Proficiency”
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- SINP (Saskatchewan): Requires CLB 4-7 (depending on job)
- MPNP (Manitoba): Minimum CLB 4-5 for semi-skilled workers
- OINP (Ontario): Prefers candidates with CLB 7+
3. Canadian Citizenship
- Requires CLB 4 in English or French (speaking & listening).
Tips to Improve Your CLB Score
Want a higher CLB level? Follow these tips:
For IELTS/CELPIP (English):
✔ Practice daily with mock tests (use IELTS Liz or CELPIP Prep)
✔ Improve vocabulary by reading newspapers (The Globe and Mail, BBC News)
✔ Watch English shows (without subtitles) to improve listening
✔ Take a prep course (IDP, British Council)
For TEF (French):
✔ Use TV5Monde for listening practice
✔ Read French books (Le Monde, L’Express)
✔ Join language exchange groups (Tandem, Meetup)
Free Online CLB Calculator Tool
Instead of manually checking charts, use our free CLB Calculator to instantly convert:
- IELTS to CLB
- CELPIP to CLB
- TEF to CLB
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum CLB for Express Entry?
- FSWP: CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0)
- CEC: CLB 5 (NOC B jobs) or CLB 7 (NOC 0, A, B)
2. Can I combine IELTS and CELPIP scores for CLB?
No, you must use one test type (either IELTS or CELPIP).
3. Does CLB expire?
No, but your language test results expire after 2 years.
4. What CLB is required for Canadian citizenship?
CLB 4 in speaking and listening (English or French).
Conclusion
A CLB Calculator is essential for anyone immigrating to Canada. Whether you’re taking IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF, knowing your CLB level helps you:
✔ Check eligibility for Express Entry & PNPs
✔ Maximize CRS points for faster PR
✔ Plan your language test strategy
Want to calculate your CLB instantly? Try our free online CLB Calculator today!
🚀 Pro Tip: Aim for CLB 9+ (IELTS 7.0+) to maximize your Express Entry points!
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