Express Entry, step by step

The fastest English result for French-route candidates: CELPIP, IELTS or PTE Core?

For someone on the French route, the English test is a box to tick quickly and well, so the bulk of your time can go to French. Here's how to tick it with the least disruption.

Updated November 2026 · 3 min read

The short answer

You need CLB 7 in all four skills for FSW (if English is your first official language) and CLB 5+ for the full 50-point French bonus.
Typical result times: PTE Core about 2 days, CELPIP about 4–5 business days, IELTS on computer 3–5 days, IELTS on paper about 13 days.
Book the English test early (months 1–2), so it doesn't compete with French in your final months.
Make sure the English result stays valid (two years) until your PR application is submitted.

1Why speed matters more than a perfect score

The English result lets you create your profile early and secures eligibility. Every week spent on a second or third English attempt is a week away from French, which is worth far more for most French-route profiles.

2Results timing

Test	Typical time to results	Notes
PTE Core	≈2 days	Computer-scored
CELPIP General	≈4–5 business days	Faster rating options available for a fee
IELTS General (computer)	3–5 days
IELTS General (paper)	≈13 days

Organisers publish current turnaround times; these change occasionally.

3Fitting English around French

1
Month 1
Take a diagnostic for your chosen English test. If you're already at CLB 7–9, book within four weeks.
2
Month 2
Sit the test. Use the result to create your profile.
3
If short of CLB 7 in one skill
One targeted retake. Don't let English drag past month 3.
4
Months 3+
French full time (alongside your job). Check your English expiry date against your planned PR submission.

Taking English and French tests close together isn't a problem; they test different languages. But avoid preparing for both at full intensity in the same month.

4Frequently asked questions

Which English test gives results fastest?+

PTE Core usually returns results within about two days. CELPIP takes about four to five business days, IELTS on computer three to five days, and IELTS on paper around 13 days.

What English level do I need for the French bonus?+

CLB 5 or higher in all four English skills, together with NCLC 7 in all four French skills, gives the full 50-point bonus. With CLB 4 or lower, the bonus is 25.

Keep reading

CELPIP, IELTS or PTE Core for Express Entry?All three are accepted. Formats, CLB score tables, and which suits a French-route candidate.Why many candidates find CELPIP easier than IELTSEveryday listening, computer speaking, structured writing and scores that equal CLB.Enter the Express Entry pool before your French result?Why to create your profile early, how updates keep your timestamp, and the three-phase rhythm.From zero French to the Express Entry pool: the action mapEvery step in order: paperwork in months 0–3, French milestones to NCLC 7, test and update.

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.