CELPIP score needed for Canada PR
Each Express Entry program sets a minimum CLB level. Because CELPIP levels equal CLB levels, the minimum CELPIP score is the same number. Meeting the minimum makes you eligible; a higher score earns more CRS points.
Based on IRCC program pages, checked 2026-10-06.
Minimum CELPIP levels by program
| Program | Minimum CELPIP / CLB |
|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Worker Program | CLB 7 in all four abilities Below CLB 7 in any ability makes you ineligible for this program. |
| Canadian Experience Class (TEER 0 or 1 jobs) | CLB 7 in all four abilities |
| Canadian Experience Class (TEER 2 or 3 jobs) | CLB 5 in all four abilities |
| Federal Skilled Trades Program | CLB 5 in speaking and listening, CLB 4 in reading and writing |
| Canadian citizenship (adults) | CLB 4 in speaking and listening CELPIP-General LS (listening and speaking only) is accepted for citizenship, but not for Express Entry. |
For Express Entry you must take CELPIP-General, and results must be less than 2 years old both when you create your profile and when you apply for permanent residence.
Minimum versus competitive
The minimum only gets you into the pool. Invitations go to the highest Comprehensive Ranking System scores, and language is one of the largest parts of that score:
- Each ability is worth up to 34 CRS points (32 if your spouse or partner comes with you). CLB 10 earns the maximum.
- Moving from CLB 7 to CLB 9 adds 14 points per ability without a spouse (17 to 31), or 56 points across all four abilities.
- CLB 9 in all four abilities also unlocks the top tier of skill transferability points, up to 50 for language combined with education and up to 50 for language combined with foreign work experience.
So if you already meet CLB 7, aiming for CLB 9 is usually worth far more than the minimum suggests.Check what your current scores are worth →
Rules that may change
In April 2026 IRCC opened a consultation that proposes a single minimum of CLB 6 across programs and fewer extra points for French. These proposals were not in force as of 2026-10-06. Check the official program pages before you book a test.