There are actually two official language tests that applicants can use to demonstrate their English language ability for Canadian immigration:

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
2. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)

However, IELTS is the more popular option, since CELPIP is only available in Canada or the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Preparing for the IELTS is one of the most important things that you can do to improve your chances of successfully coming to Canada. For Express Entry candidates, a high IELTS score is one of the biggest factors in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Most Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) also have minimum language proficiency requirements for eligibility.

If you want to come to Canada as an international student, you may need to take the IELTS. Some Canadian schools and programs require IELTS as part of the school application, but even if you’re applying to a program where IELTS isn’t required, it’s still recommended.

You can include your IELTS results in your school applications and in your application for a study permit. Demonstrating strong English language skills could improve your chances of being granted a study permit!

Free IELTS Preparation Materials

The IELTS are administered by the British Council. There are a lot of materials provided by the British Council, and by various third party organizations, to help candidates prepare to take the IELTS. We offer free access to an extensive online tutoring service to all of our Express Entry and Study-2-Immigrate clients through IELTS Test Online.

The British Council recently released an app for your phone that can help you prepare to take the IELTS. The app gives users access to practice tests, exercises, and tips on how to take the test.

The app is free and can be downloaded on Android or iOS. If you’re planning to take the IELTS, this app could really help you get the best mark possible!

IELTS for Canadian Immigration

Minimum language requirements for Canadian immigration programs are usually referred to by their Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level, or niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC).

If you write the IELTs, you will have to convert your scores to their CLB equivalent. You can use this chart to figure out your score:

Your IELTS results usually include what’s called a ‘band score’, which is an average of your results in the four abilities. For Canadian immigration purposes, your overall band score does not matter. Your CLB level is based on your lowest IELTS score. So, if you score a 6.0 in the writing, listening, and speaking sections of the test, but only a 5.0 in reading, your CLB level is 6.

You can retake the IELTS as many times as you like until you get the score you want, and for many immigration programs you can update your IELTS score with new test results if you want.

Study hard and good luck!

Sincerely,

The Canadim Team!

www.canadim.com