What is Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)?
The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) is a framework used in Canada to assess and describe the English language proficiency of adult immigrants and prospective immigrants. It provides a standardized way to measure and compare language skills across different language proficiency levels. The CLB is divided into 12 levels, ranging from CLB 1 (basic) to CLB 12 (advanced). Each level corresponds to specific language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The CLB is widely used in language training programs, immigration applications, and employment settings in Canada.
IELTS score to CLB level
| Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking | CLB Level |
| 4.5 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4 |
| 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5 |
| 5.5 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 6 |
| 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 7 |
| 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 8 |
| 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 9 |
| 8.5 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 10 and above |
CELPIP Score to CLB level
| Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking | CLB Level |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
IELTS
IELTS, which stands for the International English Language Testing System, is a test that checks how well you can speak and understand English. It is jointly owned and conducted by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. Each of these organizations has its own testing centers all over the world, so you can choose the one that is most convenient for you.
The IELTS test consists of four main parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
In the Listening part, you will be given 30 minutes to complete the task. You will listen to four recordings, including monologues (one person speaking) and conversations between up to four people. After listening, you will need to answer questions based on what you heard.
The Reading part gives you 60 minutes to answer 40 questions. You will be given extracts from various sources such as books, magazines, newspapers, and advertisements. Your task is to understand the main idea, details, arguments, opinions, and purposes of the text and answer the questions accordingly.
The Writing part also lasts for 60 minutes. You will be required to write an essay and a letter. The letter will involve explaining a situation or requesting information, while the essay will require you to respond to a point of view, argument, or problem.
The Speaking part is a one-on-one interview with an examiner. It takes around 11-14 minutes and is divided into three sections. In Part 1, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself. In Part 2, you will be given a topic and have one minute to prepare before speaking for up to two minutes. In Part 3, the examiner will ask you further questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2.
After taking the test, your results will be available after 13 days. You can choose to have them posted to you or collect them in person from the test center. Additionally, the scores will be available online for 28 days.
IELTS is scored on a scale of 0-9 for each module. A score of 0 means you did not answer any questions, while a score of 9 indicates full operational command and understanding of the English language. The scores for the IELTS test range from 1 to 9. A score below 6 typically indicates that you may have difficulty understanding and communicating in English. A score of 6 means you have an effective command of English, even though there may be some mistakes or misunderstandings. A score of 7 means you have a good command of English, but there may still be some mistakes. A score of 8 means you have a very good command of English, with only occasional mistakes. And a score of 9 means you have an excellent command of English with full understanding.
For more detailed information and preparation tips, you can visit the official IELTS website.
CELPIP:
The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is a test used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to evaluate English language skills. It is developed by Paragon Testing Enterprises, a subsidiary of the University of British Columbia, Canada.
For immigration purposes, individuals need to take the CELPIP – General Test. While most testing centers are located in Canada, there are also centers in New York, USA, and Dubai, UAE.
The CELPIP test is fully computerized and administered on a computer using a microphone and headset for the Speaking and Listening sections. The test takes approximately 3 hours to complete, and all four modules are tested in one sitting.
Here is a breakdown of the test sections:
- Listening: This section lasts 47-55 minutes and consists of 39 questions. You will listen to various types of audio, such as problem-solving, daily life conversations, information, news items, discussions, and viewpoints.
- Reading: This section lasts 55-60 minutes and includes 39 questions. The questions are based on different types of written materials, including correspondence, diagrams, information, and viewpoints.
- Writing: This section must be completed within 53-60 minutes. You will be required to write an email and answer survey questions.
- Speaking: This section has a time limit of 15-20 minutes. You will perform speaking tasks such as giving advice, discussing personal experiences, describing scenes, making predictions, comparing and persuading, dealing with difficult situations, expressing opinions, and describing unusual situations.
After completing the test, CELPIP test scores are typically available online within 8 business days. However, there is an option to expedite the results to 3 business days by choosing Express Rating.