Minimum IELTS score for Canada Express Entry Program

IELTS - International English Language Testing System is a highly renowned test for determining proficiency in the English language. It is essential for overseas education and immigration purposes. The test is endorsed by educational institutions and professional organizations globally. This is to assess the language proficiency in English which is now a major selection factor.

English is the official language in many nations including Canada. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada require Skilled Worker Visa applicants to fulfill the Minimum IELTS score for Canada Express Entry Program.

IELTS test scores are established as evidence of language proficiency in English for work, study, and immigration to advanced nations. These include the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

IELTS validity for Immigration to Canada

Appearing for the online IELTS test is a preliminary step for applying for Canada Visa. The immigration applicants are required to demonstrate their proficiency in French or English language through evidence.

IELTS General Training is a chief English language proficiency test endorsed globally for offering evidence of skills in the English language. IRCC accepts it for immigration applications for Canada.

The validity of the IELTS test result is for 2 years from the date of announcement of the result. The results expire after a period of 2 years. You will have to take the test again for demonstrating your proficiency in the English language for immigration to Canada.

The IELTS band requirement for Canada PR Visa

A points-based system has been adopted by Canada for immigration purposes. The highly renowned pathway for immigration to Canada is the federal Express Entry System. It evaluates the profiles of candidates based on vital parameters like education, age, language proficiency, work experience, etc. The immigration aspirants are offered precious immigration points for all these factors.

Thus, it is evident that English is a crucial factor when it comes to immigration through Express Entry Program. Another major immigration pathway PNP – Provincial Nominee Program also mandates the candidates to possess a specific level of English skills.

Normally, both PNP and Express Entry require applicants to possess minimum proficiency of CLB - Canadian Language Benchmark 7. It implies 6 bands score in all 4 abilities under IELTS – Writing, Reading, Listening and Speaking.

CLB Vs IELTS Comparison

Canada PR Visa with a low band score in IELTS

While it is not possible to obtain Canada PR without IELTS for non-native English candidates but is possible to do so with low band scores in IELTS. 6 Bands in IELTS are required for Canada PR Visa usually. Nevertheless, some PNPs allow applications from candidates with lower scores. SINP Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program is one such example. It requires 4 level CLB which implies the following scores In IELTS sections:

• Speaking – 4
• Listening – 4.5
• Reading – 3.5
• Writing – 4

Allocation of points for immigration for English skills under Express Entry

The two major selection criteria factors that have the allocation for points are CRS and FSWP point criteria.

Federal Skilled Worker Program

Applicants are required to score at least 67 out of 100 in order to become eligible for filing the Canada PR Visa application through Express Entry’s FSWP. You can obtain a maximum of 24 points for proficiency in the English language as per the FSWP eligibility points calculator.

The FSWP Point’s allocation for the First official language

CRS Points for proficiency Language as per IELTS

The allocation of points under CRS for proficiency in English, the first official language of Canada is as follows:

• 32* with a common-law partner or spouse
• 34* without a common-law partner or spouse

*Maximum points for each skill in language speaking, reading, listening, and writing

If you wish to seek more advice, information or to apply for jobs in Canada from India or guidance about the IELTS test for Canada Immigration, you can contact an ICCRC accredited Immigration Expert at Nationwide Visas.