CELPIP score chart
CELPIP level, the CLB it equals, and the IELTS band that matches it — in one table. The short version: CELPIP levels 3–12 are CLB 3–12 exactly. A CELPIP 7 is a CLB 7. No conversion needed, which is why CELPIP is the simplest test to plan a PR application around.
| CELPIP | CLB | IELTS L | IELTS R | IELTS W | IELTS S | What it unlocks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10–12 | 10+ | 8.5 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 7.5 | Maximum CRS language points |
| 9 | 9 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | CLB 9 — big CRS jump |
| 8 | 8 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | |
| 7 | 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | Express Entry FSW minimum |
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 | |
| 5 | 5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | Citizenship (CLB 4 speaking/listening) |
| 4 | 4 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
IELTS columns are the IRCC General Training equivalency. Immigration rules change — always confirm against the current IRCC language-equivalency page before you file. Results must be under two years old on the date you apply.
What score do you actually need?
- CELPIP 7 in all four skills — the Federal Skilled Worker minimum (CLB 7).
- CELPIP 9 in all four — where the CRS awards substantially more points. Most competitive Express Entry candidates target this.
- CELPIP 10+ — maximum language points; beyond this, extra marks add nothing.
Questions
Is CELPIP the same as CLB?
Effectively yes. CELPIP-General levels 3 to 12 map one-to-one to CLB 3 to 12, so a CELPIP 7 is CLB 7 in that skill. This is the simplest mapping of any accepted test — IELTS and TEF both need a conversion table, CELPIP does not.
What CELPIP score do I need for Canada PR?
For Express Entry under the Federal Skilled Worker Program the minimum is CLB 7 in all four skills, which is CELPIP 7 in listening, reading, writing and speaking. CLB 9 (CELPIP 9) is where the Comprehensive Ranking System awards substantially more points, so most competitive candidates target 9.
What is CELPIP 9 in IELTS?
CELPIP 9 is CLB 9, which on IELTS General Training is Listening 8.0, Reading 7.0, Writing 7.0 and Speaking 7.0. Note the listening requirement is the hardest part of the IELTS equivalent — CELPIP candidates often find CLB 9 easier to reach on CELPIP.
How long is a CELPIP result valid for immigration?
Language test results must be less than two years old on the date you apply. Plan your test date against your application window, not the other way round.
Is CELPIP easier than IELTS?
Neither is objectively easier, but they differ in ways that suit different people. CELPIP is fully computer-delivered with a typed writing section and a recorded speaking section, all in one sitting, and uses Canadian English. IELTS has a face-to-face speaking test and handwritten or typed writing. If you type faster than you write and prefer no interviewer, CELPIP usually suits you better.
Knowing the number is the easy part. Take a free CELPIP practice test and get an AI score per task, so you know which skill is actually holding your CLB down.