TCF conversion to CLB/NCLC
Short answer
To reach CLB/NCLC 7 with TCF Canada you need at least:
- 10/20 in writing
- 10/20 in speaking
- 458 in listening
- 453 in reading
IRCC converts each skill separately, and every skill counts on its own. One weak paper can hold back your result.
Full conversion table
| CLB/NCLC | Writing (/20) | Speaking (/20) | Listening (/699) | Reading (/699) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10+ | 16–20 | 16–20 | 549–699 | 549–699 |
| 9 | 14–15 | 14–15 | 523–548 | 524–548 |
| 8 | 12–13 | 12–13 | 503–522 | 499–523 |
| 7 | 10–11 | 10–11 | 458–502 | 453–498 |
| 6 | 7–9 | 7–9 | 398–457 | 406–452 |
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 369–397 | 375–405 |
| 4 | 4–5 | 4–5 | 331–368 | 342–374 |
Source: IRCC, “Language testing: Skilled immigrants (Express Entry)”.
What this means in practice
- B2 (10–13/20) in writing or speaking = CLB 7 or 8. 10–11 is CLB 7; 12–13 is CLB 8.
- CLB 7 in all four skills is the minimum for the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
- One point can change your level. Going from 11 to 12 in speaking moves you from CLB 7 to CLB 8. Writing and speaking are where targeted practice moves your score most directly.
For how the /20 scores are given, see how TCF Canada writing and speaking are scored.
Common questions
What TCF Canada score is CLB 7?
10/20 in writing and speaking, 458 in listening, and 453 in reading.
What TCF Canada score is CLB 9?
14/20 in writing and speaking, 523 in listening, and 524 in reading.
Does IRCC average my four scores?
No. Each skill is converted to a CLB/NCLC level on its own.