Canadian Experience Class: Who can apply – Language testing

To provide proof of language proficiency, you must take a language test given by an agency that is designated by CIC and include the results with your application.

You must

  • Make arrangements for testing by a CIC-designated agency. You will have to pay the costs.
  • Include the results of your test with your immigration application.

What happens next

  • You can use the equivalency charts to see exactly what Canadian Language Benchmark level you have based on your test results.
  • The test results will be used by CIC as conclusive proof of your language proficiency.
  • You can use language test results for two years from the time you take the test.

Designated language tests

CIC has designated agencies to conduct language testing and provide results for the Canadian Experience Class. These tests are:

English

Note: IELTS has two options for the reading and writing tests: “General Training” and “Academic.” You must take the “General Training” option.

French

Note: You must submit results from the following TEF tests as proof of your French language proficiency:

  • compréhension écrite
  • compréhension orale
  • expression écrite
  • expression orale

The agencies designated to conduct these tests are:

English (IELTS)

  • The University of Cambridge, Local Examination Syndicate
  • Education Australia; and
  • The British Council

French (TEF)

  • The Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Note: Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) centres are not designated testing agencies for applicants under the Canadian Experience Class.