An Overview of Different Language Test Requirements Under Canadian Immigration

For immigrating to Canada, a language test is mandatory for participation in federal and provincial skilled worker immigration programs. The federal Express Entry system, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and all other skilled worker streams in Canada are subject to the language test requirement.

To qualify, you must meet the language requirements of the skilled worker program that you intend to applying to. The minimum test score requirements vary depending on the skilled worker program. The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a standardised method used by the Canadian government to assess your language proficiency. While some programmes only require a CLB level of 4, others demand a CLB level of 7. The results of language tests are valid for two years.

Canadian Immigration Requires What Language Tests?

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) approves the following language tests for skilled worker applications.

CELPIP

The four CELPIP modules are speaking, reading, writing, and listening. To finish the test, it takes only 3 hours. Typically, the test costs $300 and the results are available 4-5 days after the exam.

IELTS

The IELTS test includes four modules: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. It takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete the IELTS exam. The cost of the test is 300$. If you apply the test on the computer, you will get your results within 3-5 days. However, for paper-based test, results are issued 13 days later.

TEF

The TEF is used to assess non-native speakers’ levels of understanding and proficiency in French. It is the only French language test accepted by the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and can be used for Quebec immigration purposes. There are three written portions of the test: reading comprehension, writing expression, and vocabulary. Additionally, there are two oral components on the exam. Each segment may last 15, 40, or 60 minutes.

TCF

The TCF is also used to evaluate non-native speakers’ comprehension and expression abilities in French. It can also be applied for Quebec immigration. Three components of the TCF are required, while further sections are optional. The optional exams take around two hours, whilst the required exams last for one hour and thirty minutes. The fee of the test is based on the province where it is administered, just like the TEF.