Each Federal Skilled Worker Application (FSW) will be assessed on various selection factors. One of these factors is language. This means that you will need to demonstrate your competency in English and French and your ability to utilize the language in your intended occupation properly.

Being able to communicate and work in one or both of Canada’s official languages is very important. Knowing English, French or both will help you significantly in the Canadian job market.

You can get up to 28 points for your skills in English and French. You will be given points based on your ability to

• listen
• speak
• read
• write.

FSW Language Testing

You must prove the language levels you claim on your application with a language test from an agency approved by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

CIC will not process your application if you do not include language test results for either English or French that show you meet the required level.

If you want to get points for your skills in both English and French, you must provide your language test results for each language at the same time.

Once you take this test, you can use it to see exactly how many points you will get for the language selection factor.

Calculate your Language Points

You must meet the minimum level of CLB 7 for your first official language in all four language areas.

To get points for your second official language, you must meet the minimum level of CLB 5 in all four language areas.

Note you can only get points for your second official language if you meet the threshold of CLB 5 in all four language abilities (speaking, listening, reading and writing). You can score four points for your second official language skills.

First Official Language	Points
	Speaking	Listening	Reading	Writing
CLB level 9 or higher	6	6	6	6
CLB level 8	5	5	5	5
CLB level 7	4	4	4	4
Below CLB level 7	Not eligible to apply

Note, you can only get four points in total for basic-level skills in your second official language, and only if you have a score of at least CLB 5 in each of the four language abilities.

Second Official Language	Points
At least CLB5 in all of the four abilities	4
CLB 4 or less in any of the four abilities	0

Demonstrating your language ability is a hurdle that many of our clients face as they prepare to write an English test. These tests can often be stressful and, if you are not a native English speaker, a daunting experience. Akrami & Associates can help with this. We will help you connect to the right people and make certain that you are well-prepared for any obstacle you might face with this or any aspect of the application process. One of our immigration practitioners will be happy to get you set up and on your way. Contact us for more information and find out how we can help you achieve your goals.