Minimum IELTS Score Required For Canada PR Visa
Updated On
Table of Contents[Show]
Are you planning to apply for permanent residency in Canada? Well, here's a heads-up: You'll need to meet the language requirements set by the Canadian government. One of the most common ways to demonstrate your language proficiency is by taking the IELTS exam. In this blog post, we'll provide you with an overview of the minimum IELTS score for Canada PR visa, as well as some tips to help you achieve your desired score.
What is the IELTS Score?
IELTS score indicates a person's proficiency in the English language. It is based on the results of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, which is a standardized test that assesses a person's ability to communicate effectively in English in listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
The general IELTS score for Canada ranges from 0 to 9, with 9 being the highest score. In context to the query, what is the required band for Canada, it is notable that achieving a band score of 6 is the minimal standard essential to be considered for various immigration programs to Canada.
The IELTS validity for Canada is two years from the date of the test.
What is the Minimum IELTS Score for Canada Express Entry?
The minimum IELTS score for a Canada PR visa depends on the immigration program that you are applying for.
- The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) requires a minimum score of 5.0 for each language ability.
- Canada's Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) requires a minimum score of 6.0 in each language ability (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) on the IELTS General Training test.
- The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) requires a minimum of CLB 7 in NOC A Jobs and CLB 5 in B NOC B Jobs.
Let us Understand each one of them in detail.
The Express Entry Program has three main federal immigration programs:
1. The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
The Federal Skilled Trades Program is suitable for those seeking Canadian permanent residency through their skilled trade qualifications.
Here is a detailed table comprising the minimum IELTS score for Canada (CLB levels)
|
5 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
|
6 |
5.5 |
5 |
5.5 |
5.5 |
|
7 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
|
8 |
7.5 |
6.5 |
6.5 |
6.5 |
|
9 |
8 |
7 |
7 |
7 |
|
10 and above |
8.5 - 9.0 |
8.5 - 9.0 |
7.5 - 9.0 |
7.5 - 9.0 |
2. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Skilled worker selection criteria in Canada include education, language proficiency, work experience, and other factors.
Here is a detailed table comprising the minimum IELTS score for Canada (CLB levels)
7 | 4 | 6.0 - 7.0 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
8 | 5 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
9 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
10 and above | 6 | 8.5 - 9.0 | 8.0 - 9.0 | 7.5 - 9.0 | 7.5 - 9.0 |
However, if English is your second language, then your score should be structured this way:
5 and above | 4 | 5.0 - 9.0 | 4.0 - 9.0 | 5.0 - 9.0 | 4.0 - 9.0 |
3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
It is intended to help international students and temporary foreign workers utilize their education and experience to simplify the path to permanent residency.
A | 8.5 to 9.0 | 8.0 to 9.0 | 7.5 to 9.0 | 7.5 to 9.0 | 10 or higher |
A | 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 |
A | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 8 |
A | 6 | 6 | 6.5 | 6 | 7 |
B | 5.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 6 |
B | 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Are you struggling to get the desired Canada band requirement in the IELTS exam? If yes, then don't let the stress and frustration of IELTS hold you back from realizing your dream of living and working in Canada.
Canada IELTS Band Requirements 2023
The IRCC recently introduced the IELTS requirement for Canada SDS (student direct stream) applicants. While previously test takers needed a minimum score of 6.0 in each individual skill (Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking), this criterion has been revised.
Now, candidates applying under IELTS Academic are required to attain an overall band score of 6.0, without specific minimum scores for each skill. For IELTS general, however, the score in each skill ((Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking))will remain band 6.
The following table illustrates a range of scores that test takers can now attain in order to meet the requirements for SDS applications:
5.5 | 5.5 | 7.5 | 5.5 | 6 |
7 | 5.5 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
7 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 3 | 6.5 |
5 | 5.5 | 6.5 | 7 | 6 |
Tips to Achieve Desired IELTS Score for Canada
Here are some tips to help you achieve your desired IELTS points for Canada.
- Familiarize yourself with the test format: Before taking the test, ensure you know the format and understand the types of questions you will encounter in each section.
- Practice regularly: The more you practice, the more familiar you will become with the test format and the more confident you will feel on test day.
- Improve your vocabulary: The IELTS exam tests your vocabulary, so it's essential to work on expanding your vocabulary.
- Improve your grammar: Good grammar is essential for achieving a high score in the Writing and Speaking sections of the test. Make sure you know the grammar rules and practice using them in your writing and speaking.
- Focus on your weaknesses: Identify your weaknesses and work on improving them. For example, if you struggle with the Listening section, practice listening to English language materials regularly.
- Take mock tests: Taking mock tests can help you identify areas where you need to improve and give you a sense of how you are progressing.
Which IELTS Test is Needed for a Canada PR Visa?
IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic tests are accepted for Canada PR visa applications. However, most candidates typically take the IELTS General Training test as it is specifically designed to assess English language proficiency in a practical, everyday context.
The IELTS General Training test is commonly used for immigration purposes, while the IELTS Academic test is designed for individuals who wish to pursue higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking country.
Regardless of which test you choose, you must achieve the minimum IELTS requirement for a Canada PR visa.
Feeling frustrated with your IELTS preparation and struggling to achieve your target score? Don't worry, you're not alone. Many test-takers find it challenging to crack the IELTS, but we have the perfect solution to help you achieve your desired score.
Our comprehensive IELTS ebook offers step-by-step guidance, expert tips, and proven strategies to help you overcome your struggles and succeed on test day.
Ready to take the next step toward Canadian PR?
In conclusion, if you are planning to apply for permanent residency in Canada, it is important to be aware of the minimum IELTS score required for a successful application. Achieving a high score in the IELTS exam can increase your chances of being selected for immigration to Canada, as it is one of the key factors that immigration officers consider when assessing your application.
Besides offering end-to-end immigration services to Canada, Australia, Germany, Austria, Sweden, we have an impressive 99.9% success rate helping candidates achieve 8-band scores in IELTS. Book a free Consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 5.5 a good score for a Canada PR visa?
Which are the new English language tests accepted for SDS applicants?
Can I get PR in Canada without IELTS?
Does the IELTS score affect PR in Canada?
Which Province accepts low IELTS scores?
