IELTS for Canada PR (Express Entry)
IELTS General Training scores for Canada Express Entry: the CLB table, what CLB 7 and CLB 9 need in each skill, and why One Skill Retake does not count.
The band you need
| For | Test | Overall | Each skill |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 7 | IELTS General Training | — | Listening 6.0, Reading 6.0, Writing 6.0, Speaking 6.0 |
| CLB 8 | IELTS General Training | — | Listening 7.5, Reading 6.5, Writing 6.5, Speaking 6.5 |
| CLB 9 | IELTS General Training | — | Listening 8.0, Reading 7.0, Writing 7.0, Speaking 7.0 |
| CLB 10 and above | IELTS General Training | — | Listening 8.5, Reading 8.0, Writing 7.5, Speaking 7.5 |
Checked 29 October 2026 against the sources below. Requirements change, and your university or employer may ask for more: confirm with them before you book.
A practice plan
- Book IELTS General Training, not Academic: Express Entry accepts General Training (or CELPIP-General, PTE Core).
- Work out the CLB your points plan needs; each skill is scored on its own, so one weak skill sets your level.
- Listening needs a higher band than the others for the same CLB: practise it most if you aim for CLB 9.
- Practise General Training Reading and the Task 1 letter, which differ from Academic.
Start here
Questions
Can I use a One Skill Retake for Express Entry?
No. IRCC states it does not accept IELTS One Skill Retake for Express Entry.
Does Express Entry accept IELTS Academic?
No. For IELTS, Express Entry accepts General Training.
How much does IELTS cost in Bangladesh?
IDP Bangladesh lists IELTS on Computer (Academic or General Training) at BDT 31,100 and IELTS for UKVI at BDT 34,850, and a One Skill Retake at BDT 18,600. Check the current fee when you book.