If you are in the Express Entry pool, you have probably heard that "language is the easiest way to add points". It is true, and the numbers show why. This article explains how many Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points your language results are worth, using the points grid published by the Government of Canada.
Points are given for each skill, not for one overall score
Your Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing results are each converted to a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level, and each skill earns its own points. If you want to see how IELTS and CELPIP scores line up with CLB, read our article on Express Entry language scores.
First official language: points per skill
These are the points for each of the four skills in your first official language, from the Government of Canada's CRS grid (page dated 3 November 2026):
| CLB level | Without a spouse (per skill) | With a spouse (per skill) |
|---|---|---|
| CLB 6 | 9 | 8 |
| CLB 7 | 17 | 16 |
| CLB 8 | 23 | 22 |
| CLB 9 | 31 | 29 |
| CLB 10 or higher | 34 | 32 |
What that means in total
Multiply by four skills. Without a spouse, CLB 7 in every skill is worth 68 points, CLB 8 is worth 92, CLB 9 is worth 124, and CLB 10 is worth 136. Going from CLB 7 to CLB 9 in all four skills adds 56 points from this section alone. With a spouse the same step adds 52 points (64 to 116).
Language can add even more through "skill transferability"
The grid also gives extra points when strong language results are combined with other things. For example, CLB 7 or higher together with a post-secondary degree, or with work experience, can add up to 50 points per combination. The full 50 points need CLB 9 or higher in all four skills. At CLB 7 or 8 with one or more skills under CLB 9, the grid lists 25.
Your second official language also counts
If you can also take a French test, a second official language adds up to 24 points without a spouse and 22 with one. CLB 5 or 6 earns 1 point per skill, CLB 7 or 8 earns 3, and CLB 9 or higher earns 6.
What this means for your test preparation
- Aim for CLB 9 in all four skills. This is where the big jump happens, and it also unlocks the larger skill transferability points.
- Every skill counts the same. One weak skill costs you points. Find your lowest skill with a timed practice test and give it the most time.
- Know the score you need. For CELPIP-General, each skill's score is its CLB level, so CELPIP 9 is CLB 9. For IELTS General Training, CLB 9 needs Listening 8.0, Reading 7.0, Writing 7.0 and Speaking 7.0.
- Use the right IELTS. For Express Entry, the Government of Canada page says you must take IELTS General Training. IELTS Academic is not listed.
You can check where you stand with our free CELPIP practice tests and IELTS practice tests, then use our weekly study plan to work on your weakest skill.
Please check the official page before you decide
IRCC updated parts of the Express Entry points system on 3 November 2026, including how points are given for Canadian work experience and job offers. The language points above come from the current grid, but the rules can change again. Always confirm the numbers on the official Government of Canada page before making a decision.
This article is general information and not immigration advice. If you would like help planning your test preparation, talk to us and we will point you to the right class.