Written by Gabriela Estrada

If I got a 6.0 only in Reading on the IELTS, is that sufficient for the PGWP? No, it is not sufficient! 

Many international students who aspire to obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada know they need the language test, but they confused when interpreting or recognizing their band scores. 

The mistake is to believe that grades are averaged when the premise is that the score is individual for each band.

Today I will explain how to interpret your results on the four bands of the IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, etc., according to Canada's requirements. 

Read with me to the end and understand how the language test score for the PGWP.

The bands in the language exam

A "band" is the term used by international language exams to refer to the score obtained in each of the four language skills. The band is the equivalent of the skill.

These skills are: listening comprehension (Listening), reading comprehension (Reading), writing (Writing) and speaking (Speaking). 

The CLB requirement per band

In Canada, the language requirement to qualify for the PGWP is based on the CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) score achieved in each of the four bands. 

CLB are the Canadian language benchmarks, a national standard in Canada for measuring English or French language proficiency in adults focused on immigration, education, and employment.

CLB assessments range from level 1 to 12. 

For education, specifically for applying for the PGWP, the minimum level required for each band depends on the type of program (these CLB 5 and 7 rules are mandatory for those who applied for their study permit after November 1, 2024).

• CLB Level 5 for college students or graduates.
• CLB Level 7 for university students or graduates.

This level must be reflected in each of the four bands. It is not enough to achieve it on average! 

For example, a university student who obtains CLB 7 in Reading, Writing, and Listening and CLB 4 in Speaking does not meet the requirement. 

There is no score compensation.

How to interpret your results table? 

To find out if your bands "work for you," you should not look at the average, but rather at the individual equivalence. 

Here is the official table used by the Canadian government for the exam IELTS General Training (the most common for this process).

Official source for language test results: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/start-visa/language-testing.html

Fact about CLB 5: You may be wondering, why is Reading ask for a 4.0 and everywhere else asks for a 5.0? 

Of course, reading is no less important. The thing is, the Canadian system (CLB) considers that a 4.0 in this IELTS band already demonstrates a "level 5" ability for Canada. 

However, writing and speaking require higher scores, and it is mandatory to get a 5.0 to reach that same level 5.

It is under this premise that the bands for the PGWP are understood. 

Mastery of the language and the exam itself must be reflected in all skills to ensure a successful score.

What happens if a band does not meet the minimum requirement?

If you get a 4.5 in Writing, you automatically drop to CLB 4 and your PGWP is at risk of being rejected. 

There is no way to compensate for that 4.5 in writing with a 9.0 in reading.

If your current language test score does not meet the minimum requirement in each of the four bands, the only solution is to take it again.

How can I succeed in the upcoming exam?

Get ready once again, but with focus. 

If you already have a command of the language, the next challenge is to understanding the exam format (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, etc.). Sometimes, unfamiliarity with the timing and structure is what lowers your score, even if you know English. 

Think about "planning": don't wait until you graduate to take the exam. Secure your budget and time in advance to obtain the minimum score or higher in all four bands.

Do you need specialized guidance to successfully take the language exam? At Planeta Immiland Education, we can help you.

Preparation for language exams with Planeta Immiland Education

We are the leading English and French language school for immigration purposes in Canada. We have certified teachers who can prepare you to achieve the required score on the language exam and obtain your PGWP.

If you need guidance on language courses focused on international studies, schedule a consultation with us.

Click on the link: https://www.planeta-immiland-education.com/ and learn about our methodology for immigration purposes. Good luck on your upcoming exam and your PGWP application. 

Thanks for reading. Don't miss our next blog: What does "double-double" mean in Canada? Phrases used by native speakers.

With love,

Planeta Immiland Education