IELTS to CLB Calculator
Convert your IELTS General Training band scores to Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB). Express Entry and most PR programs check your lowest CLB across the four skills, so that's the number to watch. The full conversion chart is below.
Last updated: 2026-07-12
Lowest CLB (used for Express Entry)
9
Your weakest skill sets your overall CLB. Confirm current thresholds on IRCC.
IELTS General Training to CLB chart
IRCC assesses Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking separately. These are the minimum IELTS General Training bands for each CLB level; a result below any threshold falls into the next lower level.
| CLB | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10+ | 8.5–9.0 | 8.0–9.0 | 7.5–9.0 | 7.5–9.0 |
| 9 | 8.0 | 7.0–7.5 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| 8 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 7 | 6.0–7.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| 6 | 5.5 | 5.0–5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| 5 | 5.0 | 4.0–4.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| 4 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4.0–4.5 | 4.0–4.5 |
Source: IRCC’s official Express Entry language-test equivalency table. Express Entry requires IELTS General Training; IELTS Academic uses a different purpose and is not accepted for this pathway.
What your CLB level means for Express Entry
Express Entry and most Provincial Nominee Programs assess your lowest CLB across the four skills. Reaching CLB 9 in all skills maximises your language points, while CLB 7 is a common minimum for many programs. French ability can add further CRS points on top of English — see the French test for Canada immigration guide.
Raise your weakest skill
Because your lowest skill sets your CLB, the fastest CRS gains usually come from lifting one weak skill. Practise IELTS Writing and Speaking with AI feedback to push the skill that's capping your level.