IELTS → CLB converter
Enter your four IELTS General Training band scores. Each skill converts separately — there is no overall-band conversion, and your level for a program is set by your weakest skill. IELTS Academic is not accepted for Express Entry, and IELTS One Skill Retake is not accepted either.
Official conversion table (minimum band for each CLB level)
| CLB level | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 10 and above | 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 |
Reverse lookup: which bands do I need for a CLB level?
Common CLB targets
- CLB 7 in all four skills — Federal Skilled Worker minimum, and Canadian Experience Class for TEER 0/1 work.
- CLB 5 in all four skills — Canadian Experience Class for TEER 2/3 work.
- CLB 9 in all four skills — the level where CRS language points jump and most competitive profiles aim.
Official source: IRCC, “Express Entry: Language test results” (equivalency charts), checked 24 Oct 2026 — canada.ca. Test results must be less than 2 years old when you complete your Express Entry profile and when you submit your application. General information only — not legal advice.