TEF & TCF Canada → NCLC conversion tables
These are IRCC's official equivalency charts. The TEF Canada table is the version in effect since 10 December 2023. The highlighted row is NCLC 7, the minimum for French-category draws.
How French adds CRS points
If English is your first official language, French counts as your second official language. Each French skill at NCLC 5–6 earns 1 point, at NCLC 7–8 earns 3 points and at NCLC 9+ earns 6 points. That is up to 24 points in total, or 22 with an accompanying spouse. On top of that, NCLC 7+ in all four skills earns an additional 50 points if your English is CLB 5+ in all four skills, or 25 points if it isn't.
NCLC 7 across all four skills also makes you eligible for French-language category draws, whose cutoffs have been well below those of general draws. That's often worth more than the points themselves.
Frequently asked questions
What NCLC level do I need for French-language Express Entry draws?
NCLC 7 or higher in all four skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. One skill at NCLC 6 is enough to make you ineligible, so your weakest skill decides it.
How many CRS points is French worth?
Up to 74 points if English is your first official language: 24 for French as a second official language plus the 50-point French bonus. With an accompanying spouse the second-language maximum is 22, so the total is up to 72.
Should I take TEF Canada or TCF Canada?
IRCC accepts both. They differ in format and scoring (TCF scores writing and speaking out of 20), so pick the one you can book sooner and practise in its exact format.
What if my French is better than my English?
IRCC counts your higher-scoring language as your first official language, which changes the points. This calculator assumes English is your first official language, which is true for most applicants.
How long are my test results valid?
Two years from the test date. They must be valid both when you create your profile and when you submit your PR application.