How Many Express Entry Points Do I Get for Language Ability?
Language ability is one of the highest-weighted core human capital factors in Canada's Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), scored separately for each of the four skills — listening, reading, writing, and speaking — based on your CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) level in each.
💡 Quick Summary
Each skill earns points independently based on its own CLB level, up to a maximum of 34 points per skill (32 if applying with a spouse) — so your lowest-scoring skill is often the easiest place to gain more CRS points.
First Official Language CRS Points by CLB Level (Per Skill)
| CLB Level | No Spouse | With Spouse |
|---|---|---|
| 4 or less | 0 | 0 |
| 5 | 6 | 6 |
| 6 | 9 | 8 |
| 7 | 17 | 16 |
| 8 | 23 | 22 |
| 9 | 31 | 29 |
| 10+ | 34 | 32 |
Converting Your Test Score to CLB
If you have an IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF score rather than a CLB level, convert each skill to its CLB equivalent first using IRCC's official conversion chart (or our IELTS-to-CLB converter), then enter those CLB levels here.
Why Your Lowest Skill Matters Most
Because each skill is scored independently, a single weak skill (often writing or speaking) can meaningfully cap your total language points even if your other three skills are strong. Many candidates find it's more efficient to focus retest preparation on their lowest-scoring skill rather than retaking the whole exam broadly.
CRS point values are set by IRCC and are subject to change. Always confirm current values on the official IRCC Express Entry website before relying on this for an application decision.