Can I apply for Canada Express Entry without IELTS?

Yes, you can apply for the Canada Express Entry program without IELTS, provided you are proficient in other language tests. Language proficiency is one of the selection factors for the Express Entry program. While IELTS is mainly preferred for the Express Entry program, you can also apply for Express Entry if you have attempted other eligible language tests like the CELPIP or the PTE Core for English and TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français and TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français for French language proficiency. You can score a maximum of 28 points under the language proficiency factor in English or French languages. While you can apply for Express Entry without IELTS, those who apply with at least six bands in IELTS can have better chances of scoring the maximum CRS points. Additional points are assigned to candidates with proficiency in the French language.

 

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Which language tests are accepted for Express Entry?

Individuals with IELTS can score a maximum of 28 points through the CRS tool. The Express Entry program accepts the below lists of language tests as proof of Language proficiency:

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English	French
CELPIP - Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (General test)	TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français
IELTS - International English Language Testing System (IELTS General) Note: IELTS One Skill Retake for Express Entry is not accepted.
PTE Core - Pearson Test of English	TCF Canada: Test de connaissance du français

 

How many points can you score for the language proficiency selection factor?

To apply for Canada PR through the Express Entry program, one must score at least 67 points on the grid. The maximum points you can score for the English/French language proficiency is 28 points under the reading, writing, listening, and speaking ability. Candidates who are proficient in both (English and French) can select their first language based on their expertise, while the other language automatically becomes their second official language.

You can refer to the table below to get a better understanding of the distribution of points under the language criteria:

English and French Language proficiency (Max points: 150 + 20 with spouse, 160 without)
First Official Language
Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)	CRS points without spouse/partner	CRS points with spouse/partner
		Principal Applicant	Spouse/Partner
CLB3 or less	0	0	0
CLB4	6	6	0
CLB5	6	6	1
CLB6	9	8	1
CLB7	17	16	3
CLB8	23	22	3
CLB9	31	29	5
CLB10 or more	34	32	5
Second official language
Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level per ability	With a spouse or common-law partner (Maximum 22 points)	Without a spouse or common-law partner (Maximum 24 points)
CLB 4 or less	0	0
CLB 5 or 6	1	1
CLB 7 or 8	3	3
CLB 9 or more	6	6

 

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