Canada is known for its multiculturalism and has a high number of immigrants every year. If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, one of the essential requirements is to demonstrate your proficiency in either English or French. The Canadian government requires language tests to assess the applicant’s ability to speak, write, read and listen to the language they intend to use in Canada. The results of language tests are valid for two years. This means that there cannot be a delay of more than two years between passing a language exam and submitting your application for Canadian immigration. You must retake your language test if more than two years have passed.
The language test requirements for Canadian immigration are as follows:
Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) and Niveaux de competence Linguistique Canadiens (NCLC): The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a standard used to evaluate the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers, while the Niveaux de competence Linguistique Canadiens (NCLC) is used to evaluate French language proficiency. The CLB and NCLC have six levels, ranging from 1 to 12, with 12 being the highest proficiency level.
Approved language tests: The Canadian government has approved specific language tests to assess the applicant’s proficiency level. The approved tests for English are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP). For French, the approved tests are the Test devaluation de français (TEF) and the Test de connaissance du français pour le Canada (TCF Canada).
Minimum language test scores: The applicant must achieve a minimum language test score based on their immigration program. For example, if you are applying for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you need to score at least CLB 7 in all four language abilities (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) for English or NCLC 7 for French.
Test validity: The language test results are valid for two years from the date of the test. If you submit an expired language test result, your application will be refused.
Language test for dependent children: Dependent children who are 18 years or older must take a language test if they are not attending a Canadian school or university in which the primary language of instruction is either English or French.
Exemptions: Some applicants may be exempt from the language test requirements, such as those who have completed a post-secondary education in Canada or have worked in a skilled occupation in Canada for at least one year.
What grade do I require?
There are minimal language requirements for the majority of Canadian economic immigration programmes, although they are not all the same. Your required score will vary depending on the programme you are applying to.
Many programmes use point systems in addition to minimal requirements. Along with language competency, other factors such as age, work history, and education may also be given points. The language test score you need to pass could range from the minimal requirement depending on your profile.
Give it your best shot, is the advise we can provide. You can retake the exam if you are not satisfied with your scores in an effort to get better ones. It’s crucial to keep in mind that they are tests. Even if you are confident in your abilities to speak English or French, you should still study and take practise exams.
In conclusion, demonstrating language proficiency is an essential requirement for Canadian immigration. The Canadian government has approved specific language tests, and the applicant must achieve a minimum language test score based on their immigration program. It is crucial to understand the language test requirements before submitting your immigration application to avoid delays or refusals.