Express Entry draws have undergone a significant transformation with the inclusion of NCLC 7 French Language Proficiency category. This particular category has become a game changer for applicants with low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. Notably, around 71% (6,100 out of 8,600) of the invitations to apply (ITAs) issued under category based draws have been awarded to French-speaking profiles.
The Power of French Language Proficiency
These recent draws have opened doors for Express Entry profiles with high proficiency in the French language and lower CRS scores. Individuals who were struggling to qualify in the ‘no program specified draws’ due to high cutoffs have found solace in these category based draws. It is essential to familiarize yourself with two key terms related to the French language:
- Francophone: Refers to individuals who are proficient in French-speaking.
- Francophile: Describes individuals who have a deep fondness or admiration for France or the French culture.
Eligibility Criteria for Francophone Draws
According to the instructions provided by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Express Entry profiles with French-language test results must demonstrate a minimum score of 7 in all four language abilities based on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC). These test results should be less than 2 years old when the officer receives a complete application from the invited profiles, not the date of ITAs sent. However, if a profile’s French test results become 2 years old before the officer receives the complete application, they will not qualify under the French category.
NCLC 7 French Language Proficiency for Express Entry
If French is your first language, meeting the following minimum requirements is crucial to create an Express Entry profile:
- NCLC 4 in reading and writing.
- NCLC 7 in all four abilities for TEER 0 or 1 NOCs.
French Language Tests for Express Entry
To claim CRS scores based on French language proficiency in the Express Entry system, there are two eligible tests available: Test d’Evaluation de Français (TEF) and Test de connaissance du français (TCF). Similar to the CLB levels used for English proficiency tests, the NCLC levels define French language skills.
TEF (Test d’Evaluation de Français)
The TEF measures an individual’s knowledge and ability to use the French language across four abilities. Here is the format and score chart for the TEF:
| NCLC Level | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 263-300 | 393-450 | 316-360 | 393-450 |
| 9 | 248-262 | 371-392 | 298-315 | 371-392 |
| 8 | 233-247 | 349-370 | 280-297 | 349-370 |
| 7 | 207-232 | 310-348 | 249-279 | 310-348 |
| 6 | 181-206 | 271-309 | 217-248 | 271-309 |
| 5 | 151-180 | 226-270 | 181-216 | 226-270 |
| 4 | 121-150 | 181-225 | 145-180 | 181-225 |
TCF (Test de connaissance du français)
The TCF Canada evaluates general French language skills through four tests. Here is the format and score chart for the TCF:
| NCLC Level | Reading | Writing | Listening | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 and above | 549-699 | 16-20 | 549-699 | 16-20 |
| 9 | 524-548 | 14-15 | 523-548 | 14-15 |
| 8 | 499-523 | 12-13 | 503-522 | 12-13 |
| 7 | 453-498 | 10-11 | 458-502 | 10-11 |
| 6 | 406-452 | 7-9 | 398-457 | 7-9 |
| 5 | 375-405 | 6 | 369-397 | 6 |
| 4 | 342-374 | 4-5 | 331-368 | 4-5 |
Eligible Tests for French Language Proficiency in Express Entry
The two eligible tests for French language proficiency in the Express Entry system are:
- TEF (Test d’Evaluation de Français).
- TCF (Test de connaissance du français).
Achieving NCLC 7 French Language Proficiency in Express Entry
To attain NCLC 7 French language proficiency in the Express Entry system, the following score requirements apply:
- For TEF NCLC 7: Reading (207-232), Writing (310-348), Listening (249-279), Speaking (310-348).
- For TCF NCLC 7: Reading (453-498), Writing (458-502), Listening (10-11), Speaking (10-11).
Conclusion
Express Entry draws focusing on NCLC 7 French Language Proficiency have revolutionized the CRS scores for applicants. These draws have provided a lifeline to individuals with low scores but high proficiency in the French language. By understanding the eligibility criteria and the accepted language tests, you can significantly enhance your chances of success in the Express Entry system. As the demand for French-speaking profiles continues to rise, possessing strong French language skills can give you a competitive edge in your pursuit of Canadian permanent residence through the Express Entry program.
