CELPIP for the PGWP: CLB 5 or CLB 7?
By Megan · Scores and immigration · Published · Updated · 5 min read
Since late 2024, most post-graduation work permit (PGWP) applicants have to show their English or French level with an approved test. The level you need depends on what kind of program you finished, and the test has to be one IRCC accepts. This post covers the CLB 5 and CLB 7 lines, which CELPIP test to book and how to time it around graduation. PGWP rules have changed several times recently, so always check the current IRCC instructions before you apply.
What CELPIP score do I need for a PGWP?
For applications submitted on or after 1 November 2024, IRCC asks for CLB 7 in all four skills if you graduated from a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree program, and CLB 5 in all four skills if you graduated from a college or other non-degree program.
| Program you graduated from | Minimum CLB | CELPIP-General levels needed |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | CLB 7 | 7 in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking |
| Master's or doctoral degree | CLB 7 | 7 in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking |
| College or other non-degree program | CLB 5 | 5 in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking |
The minimum applies to every skill separately. A result of 8, 8, 6 and 8 does not meet CLB 7, because one skill is below the line. IRCC also sets transition rules for some applicants, so check which rules apply to your application date.
Which CELPIP test is accepted for the PGWP?
CELPIP-General, taken at a test centre. The requirement covers all four skills, so CELPIP-General LS does not meet it, and IRCC does not accept CELPIP Online.
IELTS General Training and PTE Core are also accepted for English, along with approved French tests. The Duolingo English Test and academic tests used for admission are not on IRCC's list, even if your school accepted them.
Is there a field-of-study requirement as well?
For many college and other non-degree programs, yes. IRCC links PGWP eligibility for those programs to fields of study connected with occupations in long-term shortage, while university degree graduates are generally exempt. The language test is a separate requirement on top of this.
The list of eligible fields and the rules on when they apply have changed more than once. Check IRCC's current PGWP pages, and ask your school's international student office, before you rely on your program being eligible. A strong CELPIP result does not make an ineligible program eligible.
When should I take CELPIP for my PGWP?
Early enough that your results are in hand before you need to apply, and recent enough that they are still valid. IRCC accepts results for two years from the test date, and the result must be valid on the day you submit.
- PGWP applications have a deadline counted from when you receive confirmation that you completed your program. Check the current window on IRCC's website.
- Results usually arrive within a few business days; there is no longer a paid faster option on the official results page.
- Book a date that leaves room for a retake if one skill falls short.
- Test centres in some cities fill up near the end of term. Look at dates a month or more ahead.
Many students book in their final term, after most coursework is done. That usually gives time for a retake and keeps the result valid for later Express Entry use as well.
Is CLB 7 hard for international students?
For someone who has studied a degree in English, CLB 7 is usually reachable, but it is not automatic. The section that most often falls short is Writing or Speaking, where raters judge organisation, vocabulary and accuracy, not just whether you understand.
Academic English also does not transfer perfectly. CELPIP tasks are practical: writing an email to a landlord, giving a friend advice, comparing two options for a family decision. Students used to long essays sometimes write too formally or run out of time. A short, well-organised email that does exactly what the task asks scores better than a long, impressive one that misses a point.
Here is an original CELPass example of an opening to a Writing Task 1 email at around CLB 7: "Dear Mr. Patel, I am writing about the heating in my apartment, which has not worked properly since last Monday. I would like to explain the problem and ask when it can be repaired." It is clear, polite and tells the reader exactly why you are writing.
Can the same CELPIP result help with permanent residence later?
Yes, if it is still valid when you need it. The same CELPIP-General result can be used for the PGWP and then for Express Entry, as long as it is within two years of the test date when you create your profile and when you submit your PR application.
Keep in mind that the PGWP minimum and a competitive Express Entry score are different targets. CLB 7 meets the PGWP line for degree graduates, but CLB 9 in every skill earns far more CRS points. If permanent residence is your plan, it can be worth aiming higher on the first attempt.
How should I prepare for CELPIP alongside my studies?
Find your weakest skill first and spend short, regular sessions on it rather than cramming before the test. Most students can fit 30 to 45 minutes a day around classes.
- Take the free CELPass diagnostic to get a predicted CLB for each section.
- Learn the format of every part, especially Writing and Speaking tasks.
- Practise one Speaking task and one Writing task a day under real timing.
- Take a full mock test two to three weeks before your test date.
- Book when your weakest skill is above your target in timed practice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a language test for my PGWP if English was my language of instruction?
For applications covered by the November 2024 rules, IRCC asks for results from an approved test. Check IRCC's current PGWP instructions for any exceptions that apply to you.
What if my program was a mix of college and university study?
The level depends on the credential you graduated from. If you are unsure which category applies, check IRCC's PGWP guidance or ask your school.
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.