Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Step by step for Express Entry
1. Take IELTS General Training. IRCC says: 'You must take the IELTS General Training option' (IRCC).
2. Enter your four skill scores in your Express Entry profile exactly as on the TRF.
3. Enter the test result form or certificate number and the test PIN, if the system asks for them.
4. Upload a copy of the TRF when you apply. IDP Canada notes that from 1 January 2023 IRCC 'does not require a hard copy of the TRF', so you can upload a copy to your profile (IDP Canada).
Rules that can sink an application
IRCC says results must be less than two years old both when you complete your profile and when you submit your permanent residence application. If you apply with expired results, 'we'll refuse your application' (IRCC).
IRCC also states: 'We don't accept IELTS One Skill Retake for Express Entry.' The scores you enter must come from a full test.
| CLB | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 and above | 8.5 to 9.0 | 8.0 to 9.0 | 7.5 to 9.0 | 7.5 to 9.0 |
| 9 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| 8 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
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Reading the table
The table above is IRCC's IELTS General Training to Canadian Language Benchmark chart for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (IRCC). Your CLB is set skill by skill, so one lower band can pull that skill down a level. Enter your exact scores in our IELTS to CLB calculator to see each level.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to post my IELTS TRF to IRCC?+
No. IDP Canada says IRCC has not required a hard copy since 1 January 2023; you upload a copy to your profile.
Does IRCC accept IELTS Academic for Express Entry?+
No. IRCC says you must take the IELTS General Training option.
Can I use an IELTS One Skill Retake result for Express Entry?+
No. IRCC states it does not accept IELTS One Skill Retake for Express Entry.
What if my IELTS expires after I create my profile?+
Results must be under two years old when you create the profile and when you submit the PR application. Expired results lead to refusal.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for Canada Express Entry
- Canada PR: CLB 7 in IELTS General
- IELTS to CLB calculator
- 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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