Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLBs)

There are 12 levels to the Canadian Language Benchmarks. These go from basic (CLB 1) to advanced (CLB 12). These are separated into three stages – Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced – with four benchmarks within each stage – Initial, Developing, Adequate, and Fluent. 

Each of the CLBs apply to each of the four areas of language: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Detailed descriptions of each level are available on the CLB website. The CLB Online Self-Assessment site has even more detail on examples of each ability, but the best – and really only legitimate – way to tell your level is to take a recognized language test.

So, what’s my CLB level? 

As mentioned earlier, CLB is not a test. If you take a language test such as IELTS, you won’t see your CLBs on the results certificate. You can use the tables below to find your CLBs based on the scores you received on your test. Below are CLB levels for the four language tests used in Canada’s popular Express Entry immigration system.

Note that the levels required in order to be eligible to immigrate through one of the programs managed through the Express Entry system depend on the class you’re applying through (the Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, or Canadian Experiences Classes).

The IELTS General Training is one of the approved language tests for demonstrating English-language proficiency in the Express Entry system. Below are the CLB equivalencies for test scores received on the IELTS General Training:

The CELPIP General is one of the approved language tests for demonstrating English-language proficiency in the Express Entry system. Below are the CLB equivalencies for test scores received on the CELPIP General:

The TEF Canada is one of the approved language tests for demonstrating French-language proficiency in the Express Entry system. Below are the CLB equivalencies for test scores received on the TEF Canada:

The TCF Canada is one of the approved language tests for demonstrating French-language proficiency in the Express Entry system. Below are the CLB equivalencies for test scores received on the TCF Canada:

So now you know what the CLB is, and how to find it. The next step is to take a language test, if you haven’t done so already. It may seem ridiculous, but even if you reckon you’ll get a 12 in every section, you still need to prove it to the government. They’re just sticklers that way. Find out more about approved language tests for immigrating to Canada.