What are the Approved Language Tests for Canadian PR?
Language proficiency test is an important element of most of the economic immigration program in Canada. You must prove your English or French language ability to demonstrate your communication abilities. However, the choice of test version majorly depends up on the immigration program you choose. Generally, there are tree test providers, which are authorized by the Immigration, Refugee, Citizenship Canada to conduct English language test. The tests include: For English:
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
For French:
- TEF (Test dvaluation de franais)
All three tests assign scores for all four language abilities, i.e., listening, writing, reading and speaking. But, for better understanding, lets discuss all three language test options to help you take a better decision. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)- It is one of the most popular and recommended tests, which is accepted internationally by most of the countries for testing English language proficiency. In fact, IELTS is one of most preferred tests by employers, professional bodies and educational institutions across Canada. All the Canadian universities and colleges also accept the IELTS and have their separate minimum CLB requirement to qualify. The IELTS is divided into two different categories, which includes General Training and Academic. The General Training is suitable for immigration candidates and provides a score for each module as well as a total band score. It evaluates your proficiency in English language on a scale of 1 to 9 in all abilities. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)- It is also one of the leading general English tests approved by the IRCC for immigration, professional designation and citizenship. It checks your proficiency in Canadian English exclusively and contains elements of British and American English along with Canadian accents. The CELPIP is also divided into two separate categories, which includes General LS and General Test. For immigration purpose, you must choose the General Test category. TEF (Test dvaluation de franais)- It is a general French test designed to assess your proficiency level in French language for both non-francophones and francophones. The TEF is also divided into two separate categories, which includes the TEF and the TEFAQ. If you are going to apply for Canadian PR and you are a native French speaker, then we recommend to go for the TEF for demonstrating your French language proficiency. Now that you are aware about all three language testing options for Canada immigration, we suggest you to choose a suitable Canada immigration program first and then accordingly choose a testing option as per the criteria. To help you prepare for the test, we offer exclusive language coaching (both online and classroom) at Visas Avenue so that you can prepare for all the modules and aim to score maximum CLB band. A better language score helps you improve your overall CRS (Comprehensive Ranking Score), which in turn elevates your chances of obtaining an invitation to apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residence from the IRCC.