If you're applying for Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry, you must prove your English or French language skills. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is one of the two approved tests for English.
Why Choose CELPIP for Express Entry?
CELPIP is officially accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for all Express Entry programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, and Canadian Experience Class.
Minimum Language Requirements
For Express Entry, you need at least CLB 7 in all four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This is the minimum to qualify. Higher scores give you more points.
CELPIP Scores and CLB Levels
Here’s how your CELPIP scores convert to CLB levels:
- CLB 7: Listening 8, Reading 7, Writing 7, Speaking 7
- CLB 8: Listening 9, Reading 8, Writing 8, Speaking 8
- CLB 9: Listening 10, Reading 9, Writing 9, Speaking 9
- CLB 10+: Listening 11-12, Reading 10-12, Writing 10-12, Speaking 10-12
How to Submit Your CELPIP Score
When you create or update your Express Entry profile, you’ll enter your CELPIP test details:
- Choose English Language Test as your language test type
- Enter your Test Report Number (TRN) from your CELPIP results
- Confirm your dates and scores
IRCC will automatically verify your results through CELPIP’s secure system — you don’t need to mail anything.
How Many Points Do You Get?
Language ability is worth up to 28 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Higher scores mean more points:
- CLB 7 in all areas: 16 points
- CLB 8 or higher in all areas: 24 points
- CLB 9 or higher in all areas: 28 points (maximum)
Want to boost your CRS score? Check our guide to maximizing your points with CELPIP.
Tips for Success
- Practice with free CELPIP practice tests to get used to the format
- Focus on Writing and Speaking — these are the most common weak spots
- Take the test early so you have time to retake it if needed
- Your CELPIP score is valid for 2 years — you can use it for future applications
Final Reminder
Only CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS (Listening & Speaking) scores are accepted for Express Entry. Do NOT use CELPIP-Canadian Immigration Test or IELTS General Training unless specified.