IELTS vs CLB Comparison: Major Differences

A detailed IELTS vs CLB comparison will be of much importance to many international students and aspirants. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is one of the prestigious English language proficiency examinations accepted worldwide. On the other hand, CLB or the Canadian Language Benchmark is the national standard in the country for measuring English language skills. 

The CLB uses 1-12 points on its scale, while the IELTS uses a 0-9 score band. Here’s taking a closer look at the main differences: 

What is IELTS? 

Before getting into the IELTS vs CLB debate, you should know more about both these systems. In India, IDP organizes IELTS. The examination comes in two formats, namely General and Academic. There are online and paper-based variations of the IELTS too. 

A good IELTS score is the ticket to study, work, or migrate to an English-speaking country like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. The examination tests your ability to read, write, listen, and speak fluent English. A 0-9 scale helps in grading the test. IELTS is reportedly recognized by more than 11,000 companies/employers, immigration authorities, schools, colleges, and universities. Out of this tally, 3,400 US-based institutions accept IELTS alone! The higher your IELTS score, the better your chances of getting into the institution of your choice. Every university or immigration body will have specific score band criteria. 

IELTS Test Content

IELTS is tailored to assess a candidate’s proficiency in English. The questions in the test are curated by leading specialists from countries like the UK, USA, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia. The content of the test covers daily scenarios while being fair and unbiased towards all aspirants. 

The IELTS Academic examination is ideal for people applying to English-speaking institutions and for professional pursuits. This test examines your readiness to begin studies in native English. The vocabulary in this test is more in sync with academic environments. 

The IELTS General Training examination suits varied purposes. It is ideal for those looking to pursue studies below the degree level. People seeking professional training or work experience may apply for this test. General Training examinations also help while migrating to countries like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Regular language skills are tested, with the vocabulary more attuned to workplace and social settings. 

Understanding IELTS Band Scores

While comparing CLB vs IELTS, you must understand the band scores of the latter. IELTS scores vary between 0 and 9. Here’s taking a closer look:

What is CLB? 

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a national standard of the Government of Canada. It helps in identifying English language proficiency for international applicants. The NCLC (Niveaux de competence linguistique canadiens) is the French equivalent of the CLB. There are 12 levels for the Writing, Speaking, Listening, and Reading sections. CLB is also useful when you wish to immigrate to the country as well. 

CLB is not an examination; it is simply a method to describe and convert your results in any recognized language test like IELTS or TEF, for instance. Those applying for permanent residence in Canada should prove minimum CLB scores, depending on various factors. They can get added points under the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) if they score CLB levels of 5 or more in the second language. Accompanying partners may also earn more CRS points for their language scores. CLB is vital for other immigration programs like the QSW (Quebec Skilled Worker). It requires CLB levels of 5 or more for English. Different colleges and universities in Canada have varying CLB level requirements. 

The CLB levels are divided into Intermediate, Basic, and Advanced stages. Every stage comes with four standards, namely Developing, Initial, Fluent and Adequate. Every CLB will be applicable for all four English language areas, as mentioned earlier. 

CLB Table

Now that you have an idea of the IELTS score band, here is the CLB table for your understanding:

Stage I – Basic Language Ability

Stage II – Intermediate Language Ability

Stage III – Advanced Language Ability

IELTS: CLB Levels

This table will help you convert your IELTS score into the desired CLB level without any difficulties:

IELTS vs CLB comparison: Key difference