CELPIP scores and CLB levels
Each component gets its own level from 1 to 12. From level 3 up, the CELPIP level is the same number on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).
| CELPIP 12 to 4 | CLB 12 to CLB 4, the same number |
|---|---|
| CELPIP 3 | CLB 3 |
| CELPIP 2 | CLB 1 or 2 |
| CELPIP 1, 0 | Not enough information to assess |
| Valid for | Two years from the score report (IRCC needs results under two years old) |
Every skill counts on its own
Immigration programs set a minimum level for each skill, not for your average. A 9 in Listening cannot make up for a 6 in Writing. Find the skill furthest from your target and start there.
What the levels mean
- Level 7: adequate proficiency in somewhat demanding situations
- Level 9: effective proficiency in some high-stakes situations
- Level 10 and above: highly effective to expert proficiency
How Writing and Speaking are rated
Raters look at four areas. For Writing: content and coherence, vocabulary, readability, and task fulfillment. For Speaking: content and coherence, vocabulary, listenability, and task fulfillment. The course's feedback uses the same four areas.
Next step
Questions people ask
Is CELPIP 9 the same as CLB 9?
Yes. From level 3 to level 12, the CELPIP level and the CLB level are the same number.
Does CELPIP give an overall score?
Your report shows a level for each component. Immigration programs look at each skill separately.
Can I practise with an official CELPIP score?
Only Paragon can give official levels. Our practice gives questions right by part and, with the course, feedback on your writing and speaking that is clearly marked as our estimate.