IELTS to CLB calculator
Last updated
Canada reads your language level skill by skill. CLB 7, for example, means 6.0 in all four IELTS General Training skills. Choose your scores to see each level.
Choose all four scores to see your CLB levels.
What is the IELTS to CLB chart?
These are the lowest IELTS General Training scores for each level, in the figures IRCC prints for Express Entry.
| Level | 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 |
Source: Express Entry language test results, Canada.ca, page dated 16 October 2026. Rules change, so confirm there before you apply.
Why does Listening need a higher score?
Thresholds differ by skill. From CLB 8 up, Listening asks for more than Speaking: CLB 8 is 7.5 in Listening but 6.5 in Speaking.
So check every skill, not just the average. One low score sets the level all four reach, and that is often the score worth raising first.
SpeakWisely is an independent practice tool. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by IELTS, the British Council, IDP or Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
Questions people ask
What IELTS score is CLB 7?
What IELTS score is CLB 9?
Does IELTS Academic count for Express Entry?
Is my CLB level my overall IELTS band?
Does a CLB level guarantee a visa or invitation?
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