If you’re applying to immigrate to Canada through Express Entry, your French language skills can be a powerful advantage — even if English is your primary language.
Many candidates underestimate how much French can boost their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Understanding how TEF Canada scores translate into CRS points could be the difference between receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and missing out.
This guide explains how French language points work in Express Entry and how to maximize your score with TEF Canada.
Why French Matters in Express Entry
Canada actively encourages French-speaking immigrants to support Francophone communities outside Quebec.
To support this goal, IRCC offers significant bonus CRS points for French proficiency.
There are two ways French increases your CRS score:
- French as your only language
- Bilingual profile (French + English)
👉 The bilingual bonus is significantly higher.
TEF Canada: The French Test for Express Entry
TEF Canada is one of the official French language tests accepted for Express Entry (alongside TCF Canada).
Your scores are converted into NCLC (Canadian Language Benchmark) levels, which determine your CRS points.
The test evaluates four skills:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
TEF Canada Score to NCLC Conversion
Below is a simplified conversion reference:
| NCLC | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 316–360 | 263–300 | 393–450 | 393–450 |
| 9 | 298–315 | 248–262 | 371–392 | 371–392 |
| 8 | 280–297 | 233–247 | 349–370 | 349–370 |
| 7 | 249–279 | 207–232 | 310–348 | 310–348 |
| 6 | 217–248 | 181–206 | 271–309 | 271–309 |
Note: Always confirm with official IRCC tables.
How Many CRS Points Can French Add?
French Only (No English)
- NCLC 9+
👉 Up to 50 CRS points
Bilingual Candidates (French + English)
| French Level | English Level | CRS Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| NCLC 7+ | CLB ≤4 | 25 points |
| NCLC 7+ | CLB ≥5 | 50 points |
👉 A 50-point increase is often enough to secure an ITA.
Strategies to Maximize Your CRS Score
1. Target NCLC 7+ in All Skills
This is the threshold for bonus points.
2. Don’t Neglect Any Component
You must reach the required level in all four skills.
3. Combine French + English Prep
To unlock the full bonus:
- TEF Canada (French)
- IELTS / CELPIP (English)
4. Book Your Exam Early
TEF Canada exam seats in Montreal fill quickly.
👉 Plan ahead to match Express Entry timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit both TEF Canada and IELTS scores?
Yes — both are used in your profile.
Are there special points for Quebec?
No. Express Entry is federal. Quebec uses ARRIMA and TEFAQ.
What if my scores expire?
You must retake the exam. Expired scores are not valid.
Take Your TEF Canada Exam in Montreal
Looking to boost your CRS score?
CGH Test Centre in downtown Montreal is an authorized TEF Canada exam center offering:
- Flexible scheduling
- Professional testing environment
- Support throughout registration
📍 Central location — ideal for candidates across Montreal
👉 Book Your Exam Today
Maximize your CRS score and move closer to your Canadian immigration goals.
Register now with CGH Test Centre.
