What is the IELTS General test and why is it important for Canada immigration?

The International English Language Testing System or IELTS is an internationally-recognized standardized test of English language proficiency.

The IELTS is the English test of choice for educational institutions, professional organizations and employers across Canada. It is also accepted by the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). The IELTS General training test score proves your proficiency level in English.

The ability to communicate in English is a core component of Canada’s immigration system. When considering an economic immigration application, a candidate’s language skill is seen as a significant factor for their potential success in Canada.

The IELTS test assesses four primary language skills – speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The IELTS test results are converted into a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score in Canada.

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a national standard for identifying, assessing, and acknowledging the language abilities of adult immigrants and prospective immigrants who plan to live and work in Canada.

Skilled immigrants can acquire permanent residence in Canada through the Express Entry System. This system consists of three pathways –

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class

Since the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) takes 6 months to process an application, it is important to make sure that your IELTS test score is valid throughout the entire duration.

What are the IELTS score requirements for Express Entry in Canada?

A minimum language proficiency of CLB 7 is needed to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry. This equates to a minimum of 6.0 in each section of the IELTS.

Federal Skilled Worker Program

If English is your official language:

A level of CLB 4 means that no points are rewarded. A level of CLB 10 or higher means that you will secure the maximum number of points which is 34 or 32 (if you are married).

CLB Level and IELTS Scores

CLB Level	Points per subcategory	Listening	Reading	Speaking	Writing
7	4	6.0-7.0	6.0	6.0	6.0
8	5	7.5	6.5	6.5	6.5
9	6	8.0	7.0	7.0	7.0
10 and above	6	8.5-9.0	8.0-9.0	7.5-9.0	7.5-9.0

If English is your second language:

A total of 4 points is given if you fulfill the following per-section requirements.

CLB Level	Total Points	Listening	Reading	Speaking	Writing
5 and above	4	5.0-9.0	4.0-9.0	5.0-9.0	4.0-9.0

Federal Skilled Trades Program

The table below shows the per-section requirements.

CLB Level	Listening	Reading	Speaking	Writing
4	4.5	3.5	4.0	4.0
5	5.0	4.0	5.0	5.0
6	5.5	5.0	5.5	5.5
7	6.0	6.0	6.0	6.0
8	7.5	6.5	6.5	6.5
9	8.0	7.0	7.0	7.0
10 and above	8.5-9.0	8.0-9.0	7.5-9.0	7.5-9.0

Canadian Experience Class

The minimum language requirement for NOC A jobs is CLB 7 whereas the requirement for NOC B jobs is CLB 5.

The table below shows how the CLB levels equate to per-section IELTS scores.

NOC	CLB Level	Listening	Reading	Speaking	Writing
A	10 and above	8.5-9.0	8.0-9.0	7.5-9.0	7.5-9.0
A	9	8.0	7.0	7.0	7.0
A	8	7.5	6.5	6.5	6.5
A	7	6.0	6.0	6.0	6.0
B	6	5.5	5.0	5.5	5.5
B	5	5.0	4.0	5.0	5.0

IELTS General Training at PINNACLE

Writing the IELTS exam can seem challenging, however, all you need is accurate information and constructive preparation.

PINNACLE offers quick and effective IELTS General training. Through blended learning, our expert trainers use first-rate study material to take you through each section of the test – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Our extensive preparation course will ensure that you are more than ready to tackle the IELTS exam. PINNACLE is an official registration partner of IDP IELTS.

BONUS:

We also offer a free IELTS assessment test every Saturday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM for you to check your English language proficiency. Sign up to take this FREE assessment and find out your current English language level!

PINNACLE is the ultimate one-stop solution for IELTS preparation. Achieve your desired IELTS score to fulfill your dreams!

Join the PINNACLE learning community today to secure your tomorrow!