Using CELPIP for Express Entry: From Test to Profile
By Megan · Scores and immigration · Published · 5 min read
Express Entry needs a language result before you can even create a profile, and for most candidates English is also where the largest share of CRS points comes from. This post walks through the practical steps with CELPIP: which version to book, the minimum level each program sets, how the result goes into your profile, how long it lasts and how to think about points. Program rules change, so check the IRCC website before you rely on any number here.
Which CELPIP test is accepted for Express Entry?
CELPIP-General, taken at a test centre. IRCC does not accept CELPIP-General LS for Express Entry, because it covers only Listening and Speaking, and it does not accept CELPIP Online for immigration.
The other English tests IRCC accepts for Express Entry are IELTS General Training and PTE Core. All three are converted to the same CLB levels, and the same CLB earns the same points whichever test it came from. CELPIP is the simplest to read, because its level in each section already is the CLB level.
What is the minimum CELPIP score for each Express Entry program?
Federal Skilled Worker needs CLB 7 in all four skills. Canadian Experience Class needs CLB 7 for TEER 0 or 1 jobs and CLB 5 for TEER 2 or 3 jobs. Federal Skilled Trades needs CLB 5 in Listening and Speaking and CLB 4 in Reading and Writing.
| Program | Minimum CELPIP levels |
|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Worker | 7 / 7 / 7 / 7 |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 0 or 1 job | 7 / 7 / 7 / 7 |
| Canadian Experience Class, TEER 2 or 3 job | 5 / 5 / 5 / 5 |
| Federal Skilled Trades | 5 / 4 / 4 / 5 |
Each skill must meet its own minimum. A strong Listening score does not make up for a Writing score one level short. Meeting the minimum makes you eligible to enter the pool; it does not decide whether you are invited, which depends on your CRS score and the draws IRCC holds.
What does "first official language" mean for a CELPIP result?
It is the language you choose to be assessed in first, and for most CELPIP takers it is English. Your first official language result sets your eligibility and earns the larger share of language points; a French result from an accepted French test can be added as a second official language.
CELPIP only tests English, so it can only ever be your English result. If English is your stronger language, put it first. If your French is stronger, the French test usually goes first and CELPIP becomes the second language result. Check how IRCC treats each order in its CRS criteria before you decide.
How do I enter my CELPIP results in my Express Entry profile?
In the language section of the profile, you choose CELPIP-General as the test, then enter the test date, the result date, the identifying number IRCC asks for from your score report, and your level in each of the four skills, exactly as they appear on the report.
- Wait for your official results and download the score report from your CELPIP account.
- In the profile, pick the language test and the language you want counted first.
- Copy the dates, the identifying number and each skill's level exactly as they appear on the report.
- Check the four levels before you submit. A typo can change your CRS score or make your profile ineligible.
- Keep the score report: if you are invited, you upload it with your application for permanent residence.
The profile form's field names change from time to time, so follow IRCC's own help text as you fill it in. The important rule does not change: what you enter must match the official report.
How long is a CELPIP result valid for Express Entry?
Two years from the test date. The result has to be valid when you create your profile and still valid on the day you submit your application for permanent residence after an invitation, so a result close to expiry is a real risk.
If your result will expire before you are likely to be invited, book a new test in good time. Results usually arrive within about a week, often sooner, and you can then update your profile with the new result. A higher new result also recalculates your CRS score.
How does my CELPIP score affect my CRS score?
Each of your four CELPIP levels earns core CRS points separately, and your language level also combines with your education and foreign work experience for skill-transferability points. The biggest jumps come with CLB 9 in every skill.
Rather than repeat the tables here, the CRS points post sets out the points per level, with and without a spouse, and worked examples. The score calculator lets you enter your own four levels and see the effect of moving one of them.
Can my spouse's CELPIP result help my Express Entry profile?
Yes, if your spouse or common-law partner is coming with you and is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Their language result can add up to 20 CRS points under the spouse factors. It is optional, and they only need to test if the points are worth it to you.
Should I retake CELPIP to get more CRS points?
Retake when the points you could realistically gain are large compared with how far your score is from recent draws, and when practice shows you are already performing above your current level in the weak skill.
- Find the skill with the biggest gap to CLB 9 and work on it first. For many candidates it is Writing or Speaking.
- Use the calculator to see the gain from the realistic target, not from a perfect score.
- Check your current result's expiry date. A retake can serve two purposes at once.
- Book when timed practice puts you at the target in every skill, so one weak section does not cancel the gain.
Frequently asked questions
Can I create an Express Entry profile before my CELPIP results arrive?
No. The profile needs your actual results, so book the test early enough to have them before you plan to enter the pool.
Can I mix my best CELPIP skills from two different tests?
No. Your profile uses the four levels from a single test result.
Does a higher CELPIP score guarantee an invitation?
No. It raises your CRS score, but invitations depend on IRCC's draws, which change over time and can target specific categories.
Keep reading
CELPass is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with Paragon Testing Enterprises. CELPIP is a trademark of Paragon Testing Enterprises. Check the official CELPIP website and IRCC for current test rules and requirements.