TCF Canada · NCLC
TCF Canada to NCLC conversion chart & calculator
Your TCF Canada results come as four scores. This chart shows exactly how each one maps to an NCLC level — the scale IRCC uses for Express Entry — and the calculator turns your writing or speaking score into a level instantly.
Official TCF Canada → NCLC conversion
| NCLC / CLB | CEFR | Listening | Reading | Speaking /20 | Writing /20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NCLC 10+ | C1+ | 549–699 | 549–699 | 16–20 | 16–20 |
| NCLC 9 | C1 | 523–548 | 524–548 | 14–15 | 14–15 |
| NCLC 8 | B2 | 503–522 | 499–523 | 12–13 | 12–13 |
| NCLC 7 | B2 | 458–502 | 453–498 | 10–11 | 10–11 |
| NCLC 6 | B1 | 398–457 | 406–452 | 7–9 | 7–9 |
| NCLC 5 | B1 | 369–397 | 375–405 | 6 | 6 |
| NCLC 4 | A2 | 331–368 | 342–374 | 4–5 | 4–5 |
Comprehension tests are scored 0–699; expression tests are scored 0–20. Each skill is converted independently — you must reach the level in every skill to claim it.
What NCLC 7 unlocks in Express Entry
NCLC 7 across all four skills is the threshold that makes you a strong French speaker for Express Entry. It qualifies you for category-based French-language draws and, combined with English, can add up to 50 CRS points. Higher levels help your comprehension bands, but draws are based on meeting the four-skill minimum.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between NCLC and CLB?
They are the same scale — NCLC (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens) is the French label, CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks) the English one. Your TCF Canada results convert to NCLC.
What TCF Canada writing score do I need for NCLC 7?
10 to 11 out of 20 in expression écrite equals NCLC 7. NCLC 8 needs 12–13, and NCLC 9 needs 14–15.
Is each skill converted separately?
Yes. Listening, reading, speaking, and writing are each mapped to their own NCLC level, and immigration programs look at your lowest skill.
How long are TCF Canada results valid?
Two years from the date the results are issued.