The language test is one of the key requirements for almost every economic immigration category in Canada. It is a must to undergo a language test in order to show your language abilities and gain your Canadian visa. The test version and the minimum score requirement majorly depend upon the program under which you are applying.

For Canada immigration, an applicant has to submit language test results to the IRCC, which has to be done by an authorized body. Generally, there are tree test providers, which are authorized by the Canadian government. For the English language, it is the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program). While, for the French language, you have to undergo the TEF (Test d’évaluation de français).

There are no pre-defined preferences set by the IRCC for any particular test. You can opt for any language test, which is more suitable for you. But, make sure that whether you are submitting a Canada PR IELTS score result or any other test result, it has to be from the test that you have taken up in the last 24 months.

Though, the IELTS, TEF, and CELPIP all assign you a score for four language abilities, i.e. listening, writing, reading and speaking. But, for better understanding, we'll discuss the three as different language test programs that you can take up for Canadian immigration.

About IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS is one of the most recommended and internationally available tests that you can take up to test your English language proficiency. And it is one of the most preferred English tests by educational institutions, employers and professional bodies across Canada and other countries.

In fact, all Canadian universities, colleges, and professional bodies accept the International English Language Testing System and have their minimum CLB requirements to qualify.

A lot of immigration consultancy firms also provide IELTS coaching and there are a lot of testing centers located around the globe for easy access.

Moreover, the IELTS test is divided into two categories, i.e. the General Training and Academic. The General Training category is more suitable for Canadian immigration and provides a score for each module along with a total band score.

The IELTS evaluate your language proficiency on a scale of 1 to 9 in all four abilities. But, as said earlier, the minimum score requirement varies depending on the type of Canadian visa program and the organization where you are planning to work or study.

In order to meet the language eligibility criteria, you need minimum Canada PR IELTS Score of CLB Band 6 for key economic immigration programs under the Express Entry system, including, FSW (Federal Skilled Workers), FST (Federal Skilled Trades) and CEC (Canadian Experience Class).

You may refer to a table below to know how many bands required for Canada immigration. This can help you better prepare your case file by further improving your IELTS score.

Find the table below:

About CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)

The CELPIP is designed by the IRCC and is one of the leading general English tests in Canada for the purpose of immigration, professional designation, and citizenship. But, unlike the IELTS, it is designed to check your proficiency exclusively in Canadian English. It contains elements of American and British English along with Canadian accents.

The CELPIP is also divided into two categories, i.e. the General LS and General Test. For immigration purposes, you must undergo the General Test category.

You can appear for the CELPIP from within Canada or outside as well. As, its test centers are also located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

About TEF (Test d’évaluation de français)

The TEF is a general French test, which is designed to evaluate your proficiency level in French of both non-francophones as well as francophones.

The TEF is divided into two categories, i.e. the TEF and the TEFAQ.

So, if you are applying for a Canadian PR visa and you are a native French speaker, then it is highly recommended to take the TEF to demonstrate your French proficiency. As, the TEF is accepted by both the federal government of Canada and Quebec as well.

Since it is recognized by CIS and MICC, you can submit the TEF test result as an official language proficiency proof for Canadian PR and citizenship applications and certificat de sélection du Québec applications.

Now that you know what are the three best language proficiency tests recommended for Canada immigration, you can take your call and choose the one that suits you the best.