CELPIP & the CLB

How your CELPIP score maps to Canadian Language Benchmarks

CELPIP maps 1:1 to CLB

CELPIP General reports a score from 1 to 12 for each skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). These levels correspond directly to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) — a CELPIP 9 is a CLB 9, with no conversion needed. This is simpler than tests that use a different scale.

CLB 1–4

Basic

Minimal to limited proficiency. Below most immigration thresholds.

CLB 5–8

Middle

Functional proficiency. CLB 7 is the typical minimum for Express Entry.

CLB 9–12

Advanced

Effective to expert. Higher CLB earns more CRS points.

Why it matters for immigration

  • Express Entry (FSWP/CEC): CLB 7 is the usual minimum; CLB 9+ unlocks the top CRS scoring brackets.
  • Provincial Nominee Programs: most streams require CLB 4–7 depending on the occupation and stream.
  • Citizenship: CELPIP General LS (Listening & Speaking only) is accepted, with a CLB 4 minimum.
Note on Australian scores: CELPIP is DHA-approved for Australian visas, but the exact Competent / Proficient / Superior English score thresholds have not yet been verified against the Department of Home Affairs and are not published here. Verify on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before relying on them.

Convert your raw score to CELPIP & CLB

Enter your raw correct answers for Listening or Reading (each practice test has ~38 questions), or your AI-given 1–12 level for Writing/Speaking, to see the equivalent CELPIP level and CLB. Uses the same conversion as the practice tests.

Back to CELPIP Practice

Last verified: July 2026. CLB mapping reflects CELPIP's published 1:1 alignment with the Canadian Language Benchmarks.