IELTS General Training to CLB
Enter your IELTS General Training band scores for each module. We'll convert them to CLB using IRCC's official equivalency table and show the Express Entry CRS points each module unlocks.
Full IELTS General Training to CLB table
| CLB | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 10 | 8.5 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 7.5 |
| CLB 9 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| CLB 8 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| CLB 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| CLB 6 | 5.5 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 |
| CLB 5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| CLB 4 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
Why many PR candidates switch from IELTS to CELPIP
The IELTS → CLB conversion table rewards certain scores asymmetrically. IELTS Listening band 8.0 is required for CLB 9, while CELPIP Listening Level 9 maps directly 1-to-1. For candidates comfortable with Canadian English and computer-based testing, CELPIP's cleaner mapping and single-sitting format often produces higher CLB results from the same preparation.
See our CELPIP vs IELTS comparison for a module-by-module breakdown.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score do I need for CLB 9?
On IELTS General Training: Listening 8.0, Reading 7.0, Writing 7.0, and Speaking 7.0 each equal CLB 9. Note the mismatch — Listening demands a higher band than the other three modules.
Does IELTS Academic work for Express Entry?
No. IRCC only accepts IELTS General Training for Express Entry and most permanent residency pathways. If you took IELTS Academic, you'll need to retake the General Training version.
What IELTS score equals CLB 7 (Federal Skilled Worker minimum)?
Listening 6.0, Reading 6.0, Writing 6.0, Speaking 6.0 — each equals CLB 7. This is the floor for Federal Skilled Worker eligibility.
Why is IELTS Listening so much harder for CLB 9 than Reading?
That's just how IRCC's conversion table is structured. IELTS Listening band 8.0 maps to CLB 9, while Reading 7.0 also maps to CLB 9. Many candidates score CLB 10 on three modules and are held back by Listening.
Is my IELTS report still valid?
IELTS results are valid for 2 years from the test date. For Express Entry, your language results must be less than 2 years old when you submit your profile — plan accordingly if your test date is approaching the cutoff.
Now go and hit it.
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