Canadian Language Benchmark Guide: For Canada Aspirants
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Imagine moving to a new country and starting a new life, but first, you need to prove you can communicate effectively in one of its official languages. Enter the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB), a vital tool for newcomers.
It doesn't just measure language skills; it shapes futures. This benchmark guides immigrants, helping them integrate into Canadian society seamlessly. Let's explore what is CLB, CLB meaning, and how it opens doors and bridges cultural gaps.
What is the Canadian Language Benchmark?
CLB full form i.e., the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is the standard used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to evaluate the English proficiency of immigrants and applicants. It translates different test scores from PTE, IELTS, and CELPIP into a common scale, ensuring consistency.
The CLB assesses 4 key language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing—across 12 proficiency levels. This helps applicants understand if they meet the language requirements for Canada immigration.
Why is CLB Score Important for Canadian Immigration?
The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is essential for immigration to Canada due to its two official languages, English and French. Here's why CLB is required:
1. Standardized Scoring: CLB ensures consistent evaluation across different approved tests, using 12 benchmarks from basic to advanced proficiency. Test scores are converted to CLB levels for uniform comparison.
2. Impacts CRS Points: In the Express Entry program, higher CLB levels translate to more Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, influencing eligibility and competitiveness for permanent residence.
3. Minimum Score Requirements: Applications are processed only if they meet the minimum CLB scores required by specific programs, such as CLB level 7 for the Federal Skilled Worker program.
4. Dual Language Testing: Proficiency in both English and French can earn additional CRS points. The CLB standard also applies to the NCLC scores for French tests, benefiting bilingual applicants.
Also Read: 15 Benefits of Learning French Language in Canada
How is the CLB Score Calculated?
The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) is a 12-point scale measuring English as a Second Language (ESL) proficiency, first introduced in 1996 and overseen by the Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks.
The CLB scale is divided into three main levels:
Stage I: Basic Proficiency (1-4 points)
Stage II: Intermediate Proficiency (5-8 points)
Stage III: Advanced Proficiency (9-12 points)
CLB Score Descriptions: What Does Your Score Specify?
Now let us know what each CLB Level demonstrates about the applicant's language proficiency. The descriptions below delve into the language abilities represented by the 12 Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLBs) concerning speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
CLB Level |
Speaking |
Reading |
Writing |
Listening |
Level 1 |
Struggles with basic words; relies on gestures |
Recognizes letters, numbers, few words; relies on visuals |
Writes letters, numbers, familiar words/phrases with errors |
Understands few simple words/phrases with repetition/gestures |
Level 2 |
Short phrases; needs guidance; slow speech |
Locates keywords; needs visuals/dictionary |
Communicates basic info; limited vocabulary |
Understands simple words/phrases with visual clues |
Level 3 |
Basic sentences about needs; visual prompts |
Understands short texts on familiar topics; needs visuals |
Simple sentences about personal experiences; frequent errors |
Understands keywords, short sentences; needs repetition/visuals |
Level 4 |
Communicates basic info; struggles with grammar |
Understands short texts; uses dictionary/visuals |
Short, simple texts on familiar topics; basic grammar |
Understands simple communication; aided by visual/contextual clues |
Level 5 |
Maintains small group conversations; everyday vocabulary |
Understands predictable texts; needs occasional dictionary |
Simple to moderately complex texts on familiar topics |
Understands moderately complex communication; clearer on familiar topics |
Level 6 |
Communicates in formal contexts; some fluency |
Understands moderately complex texts; needs some visuals |
Adequate paragraphs with some errors; developing formality |
Understands moderately complex conversation; clearer speech |
Level 7 |
Adapts style to audience; confident in routine situations |
Understands main ideas, implied meanings in texts |
Constructs coherent paragraphs with main ideas/support |
Understands complex conversation; struggles with fast speech |
Level 8 |
Fluent in unfamiliar groups; minor grammar issues |
Identifies mood, integrates info from texts |
Clear, moderately complex texts on various topics |
Understands complex communication; maintains longer conversations |
Level 9 |
Confident in complex/abstract topics; smooth control |
Understands advanced texts; interprets nuances |
Writes prose on abstract topics; good range of language |
Understands detailed conversation; some difficulty with nuances |
Level 10 |
Fluent in demanding contexts; varied vocabulary |
Interprets author’s intent, mood in complex texts |
Constructs complex texts for various purposes; minor errors |
Understands detailed communication; uses complex grammar |
Level 11 |
Communicates in challenging non-routine situations |
Understands dense, complex texts; interprets subtleties |
Writes complex texts; synthesizes extensive info |
Understands detailed communication on abstract/technical topics |
Level 12 |
Excellent control; presents complex topics |
Understands unfamiliar, complex texts; interprets idioms |
Writes polished texts fit for publication |
Deep understanding; interprets all language nuances |
CLB to CEFR Level
The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) is a framework used to assess proficiency in English for immigrants in Canada, while the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages is an international standard for describing language ability.
Conversion between CLB and CEFR levels helps individuals understand how their language skills align across different assessment systems.
CLB Level |
CEFR Level |
– |
A1 (Beginner) |
4 |
A2 (Elementary) |
5 |
B1 (Intermediate) |
6-7 |
B2 (Upper-Intermediate) |
8-9 |
C1 (Advanced) |
10-12 |
C2 (Proficiency) |
Canada Approved Language Tests Score to CLB Level Score
As previously stated, CLB is not a standalone test. When you undertake a language proficiency test, your results won't display CLB levels on the certificate. Instead, you can determine your CLBs using the tables provided below, which correlate test scores to CLB levels.
Also Read: 5 Approved Language Tests For Canada PR in 2024
These tables outline CLB equivalencies for the 3 English language tests utilized in Canada's immigration system.
1. PTE Core to CLB Level
The PTE Core language test is the latest test approved by the IRCC to demonstrate English-language proficiency for the Express Entry system. Below are the CLB equivalencies for PTE Core test scores:
PTE Core to CLB Conversion Table
CLB Level |
Reading |
Writing |
Listening |
Speaking |
10 and above |
88-90 |
90 |
89-90 |
89-90 |
9 |
78-87 |
88-89 |
82-88 |
84-88 |
8 |
69-77 |
79-87 |
71-81 |
76-83 |
7 |
60-68 |
69-78 |
60-70 |
68-75 |
6 |
51-59 |
60-68 |
50-59 |
59-67 |
5 |
42-50 |
51-59 |
39-49 |
51-58 |
4 |
33-41 |
41-50 |
28-38 |
42-50 |
Also Read: PTE vs IELTS: Which Language Test is Best for Immigration
2. IELTS to CLB Level
The IELTS General Training test is an approved method for demonstrating English-language proficiency in the Express Entry system. Below are the CLB equivalencies for IELTS General Training test scores:
Also Read: IELTS To CLB Converter Online 2024
IELTS to CLB Conversion Table
CLB Level |
Reading |
Writing |
Listening |
Speaking |
10 and above |
8 |
7.5 |
8.5 |
7.5 |
9 |
7 |
7 |
8 |
7 |
8 |
6.5 |
6.5 |
7.5 |
6.5 |
7 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
5 |
5.5 |
5.5 |
5.5 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
3.5 |
4 |
4.5 |
4 |
Also Read: Minimum IELTS Score Required For Canada PR Visa in 2024
3. CELPIP to CLB Level
The CELPIP General test is among the approved language tests for demonstrating English-language proficiency in the Express Entry system. Below are the CLB equivalencies for CELPIP General test scores:
CELPIP to CLB Conversion Table
CLB Level |
Reading |
Writing |
Listening |
Speaking |
10 and above |
10 |
10 |
10 |
10 |
9 |
9 |
9 |
9 |
9 |
8 |
8 |
8 |
8 |
8 |
7 |
7 |
7 |
7 |
7 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
Also Read: CELPIP vs IELTS: A Comprehensive Comparison of Language Tests
Navigating Language Proficiency with Canadian Language Benchmark
Understanding the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) system is essential for individuals aiming to immigrate to Canada or seeking language training for exams like IELTS, CELPIP, and others. By comprehending the CLB levels and their equivalencies, applicants can effectively prepare for language tests and enhance their prospects for successful immigration.
For further assistance with language training like IELTS, TOEFL, etc, or for your Canada immigration, seeking guidance from GetGIS can help you reap invaluable support and resources tailored to your individual needs and goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CLB Score required for FSWP?
What is the CLB Score required for FSTP?
What is the CLB Score required for CEC?
TEER 0 and TEER 1 occupations: CLB 7 (or NCLC 7) in all four abilities
TEER 2 and TEER 3 Occupations: minimum CLB 5 (or NCLC 5) in all four abilities
What is the Canadian Language Benchmark test in India?
Is CLB 7 sufficient for PR?