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The short version
CELPIP levels match CLB levels by number. CELPIP 7 is CLB 7. CELPIP 9 is CLB 9. IRCC looks at each skill on its own, so you need your target in listening, reading, writing and speaking, not as an average.
The minimums by program
| Program | English minimum on IRCC's page |
|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Worker | CLB 7 in all four skills |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 0 or 1 jobs | CLB 7 in all four skills |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 2 or 3 jobs | CLB 5 in all four skills |
| Federal Skilled Trades | CLB 5 in speaking and listening, CLB 4 in reading and writing |
Meeting the language minimum is one condition. You still have to meet the rest of your program's rules.
Why people chase CLB 9
On IRCC's points table, a single applicant gets 17 CRS points per skill at CLB 7 and 31 per skill at CLB 9. Across four skills that's 68 points against 124. With a spouse or partner the figures are 16 and 29 per skill.
| Level in each skill | Points per skill, single | Points per skill, with partner |
|---|---|---|
| CLB 7 | 17 | 16 |
| CLB 8 | 23 | 22 |
| CLB 9 | 31 | 29 |
| CLB 10 or more | 34 | 32 |
It doesn't stop there. If you have a post-secondary credential, CLB 9 in all four skills also doubles the points you get for combining education and language. A one-year credential goes from 13 points at CLB 7 to 25 at CLB 9.
Make sure you book the right test
For Express Entry, IRCC accepts CELPIP-General, IELTS General Training and PTE Core for English. CELPIP-General LS is the listening and speaking test for citizenship, so it won't work for Express Entry. Not sure which test suits you? Try the test chooser or read CELPIP vs IELTS General.
How to practise for it
Find your weakest skill first. Many people aren't short everywhere. They're short in one or two skills, often writing or speaking.
- Put your last scores into the CLB calculator to see each skill's CLB.
- Take one timed mock to get an honest baseline.
- Spend most of your week on the skill furthest from your target.
- Do a full mock every week or two to check it's moving.
Questions
Does CELPIP 9 equal CLB 9?
Yes. From level 3 to level 12, the CELPIP level and the CLB level are the same number.
Can I use CELPIP-General LS for Express Entry?
No. IRCC lists CELPIP-General for Express Entry. LS only tests listening and speaking.
Is CLB 9 required?
No. CLB 7 is the minimum for Federal Skilled Worker. CLB 9 is about the extra CRS points.
Sources (checked 26 October 2026)
Last reviewed 26 October 2026
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