Know CLB/NCLC 7 French Language Proficiency for Express Entry Draws

Posted by in CIC News, on July 13, 2023

Introduction:

Express Entry draws for NCLC 7 French Language Proficiency have emerged as a game changer for profiles with low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. These draws have significantly increased the chances for individuals with high proficiency in French to receive invitations to apply (ITAs). In this blog post, we will explore the eligibility criteria, language requirements, and the impact of French language proficiency in the Express Entry system.

Express Entry French Draws:

Express Entry French draws have proven to be a blessing for individuals with low CRS scores but high proficiency in French. Around 71% of the ITAs issued under category-based draws have gone to French-speaking profiles. This has resulted in some of the lowest CRS cutoff scores seen in Express Entry draws over the past two years.

Eligibility Criteria for Francophone Draws:

To be considered for Francophone draws, Express Entry profiles must have French-language test results that show a minimum score of 7 in all four language abilities on the NCLC (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens). These test results should be less than two years old on the date the officer receives a complete application from the invited profiles, not on the date of ITAs sent. If the French test results turn two years old before the officer receives a complete application, the profile will no longer qualify under the French category.

NCLC 7 French Language Proficiency for Express Entry:

For individuals whose first language is French, the minimum requirements for creating an Express Entry profile are as follows:

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): A minimum of NCLC 7 in all four language abilities.
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program: NCLC 5 in speaking and listening, NCLC 4 in reading and writing.
  • Canadian Experience Class: NCLC 5 in all four abilities for NOC codes with a skill level of 2 or 3, and NCLC 7 in all four abilities for NOC codes with a skill level of 0 or 1.

French Language Tests and NCLC Levels:

There are two language tests, TEF (Test d’Evaluation de Français) and TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français), eligible for claiming CRS scores in French in the Express Entry system. Similar to English tests and CLB levels, French tests use NCLC levels. Here is a breakdown of the NCLC levels and corresponding score ranges for the TEF:

  • NCLC Level 10: Reading (263-300), Writing (393-450), Listening (316-360), Speaking (393-450)
  • NCLC Level 9: Reading (248-262), Writing (371-392), Listening (298-315), Speaking (371-392)
  • NCLC Level 8: Reading (233-247), Writing (349-370), Listening (280-297), Speaking (349-370)
  • NCLC Level 7: Reading (207-232), Writing (310-348), Listening (249-279), Speaking (310-348)
  • NCLC Level 6: Reading (181-206), Writing (271-309), Listening (217-248), Speaking (271-309)
  • NCLC Level 5: Reading (151-180), Writing (226-270), Listening (181-216), Speaking (226-270)
  • NCLC Level 4: Reading (121-150), Writing (181-225), Listening (145-180), Speaking (181-225)

Conclusion: The inclusion of NCLC 7 French Language Proficiency in Express Entry draws has opened up new opportunities for individuals with low CRS scores but high proficiency in French. It is important for eligible candidates to understand the language requirements and ensure their French-language test results are within the required timeframe. By meeting the criteria and having strong French language skills, individuals can enhance their chances of receiving ITAs and successfully immigrating to Canada through the Express Entry system.

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