Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Additional points for French, with and without English
From IRCC's CRS criteria and its francophone Express Entry page.
| French result | English result | Additional CRS points |
|---|---|---|
| NCLC 7+ in all four | CLB 4 or lower, or no English test | 25 |
| NCLC 7+ in all four | CLB 5+ in all four (PTE Core 42 / 51 / 39 / 51 or higher) | 50 |
English as your second official language
If French is your first official language, PTE Core counts as the second. IRCC's CRS criteria give, per skill: 0 at CLB 4 or less, 1 at CLB 5 or 6, 3 at CLB 7 or 8 and 6 at CLB 9 or more, up to 24 points (22 with a spouse). On the Federal Skilled Worker grid, CLB 5 in all four abilities of the second language adds 4 points (language test page).
Need a CLB score for Canada?
IRCC accepts IELTS General Training and PTE Core, not IELTS Academic or PTE Academic. Practise the test you will actually sit, free.
Try PTE Core free →Practise before you book: free PTE mock test, PTE predictions, PTE Core practice test and PTE to IELTS converter.
The French-language category
IRCC's category-based selection page sets the French-language proficiency category at a minimum of 7 in all four language abilities. That page does not mention English results. IRCC accepts approved tests in English or French for Express Entry (language test page), so an English test is optional for French-only candidates, but it is what moves the bonus from 25 to 50.
IRCC changes programme rules and score tables from time to time. Check the linked canada.ca page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not immigration advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an English test if I take TEF Canada or TCF Canada?+
Not to be eligible; IRCC accepts approved French tests. An English result at CLB 5 in all four skills raises the French bonus from 25 to 50.
What PTE Core score gets the 50 French bonus points?+
CLB 5 in all four skills: at least reading 42, writing 51, listening 39 and speaking 51, plus NCLC 7 in French.
How many CRS points is English as a second language?+
Up to 6 per skill at CLB 9 or more: 24 single, 22 with a spouse.
Is PTE Core accepted as a second official language test?+
Yes. It is one of IRCC's approved English tests for Express Entry.
Keep reading
Related
- PTE Core CRS points
- IELTS and French for Quebec immigration
- What CLB 5 means in every test
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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