Master your language test strategy to maximize CRS points for Express Entry.
Both tests are accepted for Express Entry, but each has unique advantages depending on your background and strengths.
Best For:
Advantages:
✓ Globally recognized (useful for UK/Australia too)
✓ More test dates and locations
✓ Human examiner for speaking (more natural)
✓ Extensive preparation materials available
Challenges:
✗ British/Australian accents in listening
✗ Handwriting required for paper-based
✗ Speaking test may be on different day
Cost: $319 CAD
Results in 3-5 days (computer) or 13 days (paper)
Best For:
Advantages:
✓ 100% Canadian English (easier for North Americans)
✓ Fully computer-based (easier typing than handwriting)
✓ All sections completed in 3 hours same day
✓ Speaking into computer (less intimidating)
Challenges:
✗ Only valid for Canada (not UK/Australia)
✗ Fewer test centers and dates
✗ Less preparation materials available
Cost: $280 CAD
Results in 4-5 business days
Quick Decision Guide:
Choose IELTS if: You studied English formally, prefer writing by hand, or need scores for multiple countries.
Choose CELPIP if: You've lived in North America, type faster than you write, or prefer computer-based tests.
Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is the standard used to convert your IELTS or CELPIP scores into Express Entry CRS points.
| CLB | IELTS (R/W/L/S) | CELPIP | First Language Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 10 | 8.0 / 7.5 / 8.5 / 7.5 | 10 / 10 / 10 / 10 | 34 points |
| CLB 9 | 7.0 / 7.0 / 8.0 / 7.0 | 9 / 9 / 9 / 9 | 31 points |
| CLB 8 | 6.5 / 6.5 / 7.5 / 6.5 | 8 / 8 / 8 / 8 | 23 points |
| CLB 7 | 6.0 / 6.0 / 6.0 / 6.0 | 7 / 7 / 7 / 7 | 16 points |
| CLB 6 | 5.0 / 5.5 / 5.5 / 5.5 | 6 / 6 / 6 / 6 | 9 points |
| CLB 5 | 4.0 / 5.0 / 5.0 / 5.0 | 5 / 5 / 5 / 5 | 6 points |
| CLB 4 | 3.5 / 4.0 / 4.5 / 4.0 | 4 / 4 / 4 / 4 | 6 points |
CLB 7 → CLB 9 (Single applicant, no spouse)
Language: 16 → 31 points (+15)
Education crossover: increases by +10-15
Work experience crossover: increases by +10-15
Total gain: +35 to +45 points
CLB 8 → CLB 10 (Single applicant)
Language: 23 → 34 points (+11)
Additional crossover bonuses: +15-20
Total gain: +26 to +31 points
CLB 6 → CLB 9 (With spouse)
Language: 9 → 31 points (+22)
Spouse language improvement: +5
Crossover bonuses: +20-25
Total gain: +47 to +52 points
Month 1: Foundation Building
Month 2: Skill Development
Month 3: Test Preparation
Strategy:
Pro Tip:
Practice "scanning" technique: Find specific information quickly by looking for keywords, numbers, and capitalized words. This saves 30-40% of reading time.
Strategy:
Pro Tip:
Practice with different accents daily. For IELTS: British, Australian. For CELPIP: Canadian/American. Use BBC, CBC, or ABC podcasts for exposure.
Task 1 (Letter/Email):
Task 2 (Essay):
Pro Tip:
Create templates for common question types (opinion, discussion, problem-solution). But personalize with unique examples. Avoid memorized essays - examiners can detect them.
Key Criteria:
IELTS Speaking Parts:
Pro Tip:
Practice "buying time" phrases: "That's an interesting question...", "Let me think about that...", "Well, from my perspective...". These give you seconds to think while maintaining fluency.
❌ Memorizing essays word-for-word
Examiners can tell. You'll lose points.
❌ Ignoring time limits in practice
You'll panic during real test.
❌ Using overly complex vocabulary incorrectly
Simple and correct beats complex and wrong.
❌ Leaving questions blank
No penalty for wrong answers. Always guess.
❌ Studying without taking practice tests
You need test experience under time pressure.
✓ Learn templates and adapt with your ideas
Framework + personalization = success.
✓ Always practice with strict timing
Build time management muscle memory.
✓ Use vocabulary you're 100% confident about
Accuracy trumps complexity.
✓ Make educated guesses for all questions
Maximize your chances.
✓ Take full practice tests weekly
Build stamina and test familiarity.
Analyze your score breakdown:
Strategic retake timing:
Consider switching tests:
0.5 band improvement
Achievable in 3-4 weeks with focused practice
1 band improvement
Requires 2-3 months of consistent study
1.5-2 band improvement
Needs 4-6 months + professional guidance
Our AI can analyze your current language scores and show exactly how many CRS points you'll gain by improving to CLB 9 or CLB 10, considering your education and work experience.
Generated and reviewed by PRCan AI
An automated immigration analysis system trained on IRCC regulations, program guides, and official government documentation. Learn more about PRCan AI →