Express Entry, step by step
CELPIP, IELTS or PTE Core: which English test for Express Entry?
You don't have to take IELTS. IRCC accepts three English tests for Express Entry, and they convert to the same CLB levels. Pick the one that gets you the score you need, soonest, with the least stress.
Updated November 2026 · 3 min read
The short answer
- IRCC accepts IELTS General Training, CELPIP General and PTE Core for Express Entry. IELTS Academic and PTE Academic are not accepted.
- All three convert to CLB levels; an officer treats a CLB 9 the same way whichever test produced it.
- CELPIP is fully computer-based with everyday Canadian scenarios; IELTS has a face-to-face speaking test; PTE Core is computer-scored with fast results.
- For French-route candidates, English needs to be CLB 7+ for FSW (as first language) and CLB 5+ for the full 50-point bonus.
1The three tests compared
| CELPIP General | IELTS General Training | PTE Core | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Format | Computer, one sitting (~3 h) | Paper or computer; speaking face to face | Computer, one sitting (~2 h) |
| Speaking | Recorded responses to a computer | Interview with an examiner | Recorded, AI-scored |
| Content | Everyday Canadian situations | General international topics | General, with integrated tasks |
| Results | About 4–5 business days online | 3–5 days (computer), ~13 days (paper) | Usually within 2 days |
| Where | Canada and a growing list of countries | Almost everywhere | Widely available |
2Scores you need
| CLB | CELPIP (each skill) | IELTS General (L / R / W / S) |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 8.0 / 7.0 / 7.0 / 7.0 |
| 8 | 8 | 7.5 / 6.5 / 6.5 / 6.5 |
| 7 | 7 | 6.0 / 6.0 / 6.0 / 6.0 |
| 5 | 5 | 5.0 / 4.0 / 5.0 / 5.0 |
3Which one should you take?
- You're in Canada, comfortable with computers, used to Canadian life: CELPIP. Many candidates find its scenarios familiar and its 1-to-12 scoring maps neatly to CLB.
- You prefer talking to a person, or CELPIP isn't offered near you: IELTS General.
- You want results fastest, and are comfortable with integrated tasks: PTE Core.
Why many people find CELPIP easier is broken down in why CELPIP feels easier. If speed matters most, see the fastest English result.
4The French-route angle
Your English result has two jobs: make you eligible (CLB 7 for FSW if English is your first language) and unlock the full French bonus (CLB 5+ in all skills). Above that, extra English points help, but the time might be better spent on French. See CLB 9 or French?
5Frequently asked questions
Is CELPIP accepted for Express Entry?+
Yes. CELPIP General is one of three English tests IRCC accepts for Express Entry, along with IELTS General Training and PTE Core.
Is IELTS Academic accepted for Express Entry?+
No. Only IELTS General Training is accepted for economic immigration programs such as Express Entry.
How long are English test results valid for Express Entry?+
Two years from the test date, and they must be valid when you create the profile and when you submit your PR application.
Keep reading
Turn the method into points
Practise with levelled TCF Canada questions and full mock exams built for NCLC 7, with an explanation for every answer.