TEF Canada · NCLC 8
TEF Canada scores for NCLC 8
To reach NCLC 8 you need the minimum score below in that ability. Abilities are converted one at a time, so you can sit at NCLC 8 in one and a different level in another.
Reading out of 300, listening out of 360, writing and speaking out of 450
As first official language
92
CRS points
As second official language
12
CRS points
Each ability is converted separately — results below NCLC 4 earn no points for that ability.
Prefilled with the minimum scores for NCLC 8. Replace them with your own results to see where you actually land.
Minimum TEF Canada score for NCLC 8
| Ability | Minimum TEF Canada score | CRS points for this ability |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 280 | 23 |
| Reading | 233 | 23 |
| Writing | 349 | 23 |
| Speaking | 349 | 23 |
Points shown for a first official language with no accompanying spouse.
What NCLC 8 is worth in CRS points
| Scenario | No accompanying spouse | With accompanying spouse |
|---|---|---|
| First official language | 92 | 88 |
| Second official language | 12 | 12 |
Totals assume NCLC 8 in all four abilities. Second official language points are capped once the grid total is reached.
Is it worth retaking the test?
Moving all four abilities from NCLC 8 to NCLC 9 is worth 32 additional CRS points as a first official language. That figure covers the language factor alone — reaching NCLC 7 and NCLC 9 can also unlock skill transferability points that pair language with your education and work experience, so the real gain is often larger.
Slipping down to NCLC 7 in every ability would cost 24 points.
What does that mean for your total score?
Enter your real results in PR Buddy and see the full CRS breakdown — language, education, work experience, transferability, and every bonus — in about two minutes.
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