What CELPIP score do you need for PR, work permits and citizenship?

By Michael Ukwuma

The CELPIP levels most often needed for permanent residence, post graduation work permits and Canadian citizenship, in one place.

Different applications ask for different levels. Here are the most common ones. Always confirm the current rules for your own case on the IRCC website, because requirements change.

Permanent residence through Express Entry

Federal Skilled Worker Program: CLB 7 in all four skills, which is a CELPIP score of 7 in each.
Canadian Experience Class: CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs, CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs.
Federal Skilled Trades Program: CLB 5 in Speaking and Listening, CLB 4 in Reading and Writing.
To be competitive in draws, most candidates aim for CLB 9 in every skill.

Post graduation work permits

Since November 1, 2024, new study permit holders need a language test for a post graduation work permit: CLB 7 in all four skills after a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, and CLB 5 after most college programs.

Canadian citizenship

Applicants aged 18 to 54 must show CLB 4 in Speaking and Listening. CELPIP General LS, which tests only Listening and Speaking, is accepted for citizenship, and so is the full CELPIP General.

Check your own scores

Put your four CELPIP scores, or the scores you are aiming for, into the converter below. It shows your CLB level in each skill and the Express Entry language points they earn.

Sources

Key points

Most permanent residence programs need at least CLB 7, but competitive candidates aim for CLB 9.
Post graduation work permits now need CLB 7 after a degree.
Citizenship needs CLB 4 in Speaking and Listening.