Understanding how CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks) and NCLC (Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens) relate to each other is fundamental for anyone navigating Canadian immigration. While both use the same numerical scale, the test scores that correspond to each level differ significantly between English and French tests. This guide provides the complete equivalency chart.
CLB and NCLC: The Same Framework, Different Languages
CLB and NCLC are parallel frameworks developed by the Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks. They share identical level descriptors and the same 1-12 scale. CLB 7 in English represents the same functional ability as NCLC 7 in French. The difference lies only in the language being assessed and the approved tests used to demonstrate proficiency.
Approved Tests for Each Framework
For CLB (English):
- IELTS General Training
- CELPIP General
- PTE Core
For NCLC (French):
- TCF Canada
- TEF Canada
Complete NCLC to TCF Canada Score Chart
| NCLC | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10+ | 549-699 | 549-699 | 16-20 | 16-20 |
| 9 | 503-548 | 499-548 | 12-15 | 12-15 |
| 8 | 458-502 | 453-498 | 10-11 | 10-11 |
| 7 | 398-457 | 406-452 | 7-9 | 7-9 |
| 6 | 369-397 | 375-405 | 6 | 6 |
| 5 | 331-368 | 342-374 | 5 | 5 |
| 4 | 217-330 | 218-341 | 4 | 4 |
Complete NCLC to TEF Canada Score Chart
| NCLC | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10+ | 393-360 | 263-300 | 393-450 | 393-450 |
| 9 | 349-392 | 248-262 | 349-392 | 349-392 |
| 8 | 310-348 | 233-247 | 310-348 | 310-348 |
| 7 | 271-309 | 218-232 | 271-309 | 271-309 |
| 6 | 249-270 | 204-217 | 249-270 | 249-270 |
| 5 | 217-248 | 181-203 | 226-248 | 226-248 |
| 4 | 145-216 | 121-180 | 181-225 | 181-225 |
CLB/NCLC to CEFR Approximate Mapping
While not an official equivalency, immigration consultants commonly use this approximate mapping:
| CLB/NCLC | CEFR Equivalent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | A1 | Beginner |
| 3-4 | A2 | Elementary |
| 5-6 | B1 | Intermediate |
| 7-8 | B2 | Upper Intermediate |
| 9-10 | C1 | Advanced |
| 11-12 | C2 | Proficient |
How to Use This Chart for Immigration Planning
When planning your immigration application, use this chart to:
- Determine which NCLC level you need for your target program
- Convert that level to actual test scores for either TCF Canada or TEF Canada
- Set concrete score targets for your test preparation
- Compare results across different tests if you've taken both
PassFrench Score Tracking
PassFrench integrates these equivalency charts directly into our platform. When you complete practice tests, your results are automatically converted to NCLC levels so you can see exactly where you stand relative to your immigration targets. Our progress dashboard shows your trajectory toward CLB 7, CLB 8, or CLB 9 equivalents, with specific recommendations for improvement in each ability.
Understanding the relationship between CLB and NCLC gives you confidence that your French preparation directly translates to immigration points. Whether you choose TCF Canada or TEF Canada, PassFrench helps you reach the exact scores shown in these charts.