Is TCF Canada accepted for a work permit?
Checked November 1, 2026
Yes, for the two permits that ask for French. A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) needs NCLC 7 in all four skills after a university degree, or NCLC 5 after a college program, and TCF Canada is an accepted test. Francophone Mobility (code C16) needs NCLC 5 in speaking and listening, and TCF results are one accepted proof.
Post-graduation work permit
For a PGWP application sent on or after 1 November 2024, IRCC asks for proof of English or French in all four skills.
| Your program | Minimum in all four skills | TCF Canada scores |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate or other university program | NCLC 7 | 458 listening, 453 reading, 10 out of 20 in writing and speaking |
| College, polytechnic or other non-university program | NCLC 5 | 369 listening, 375 reading, 6 out of 20 in writing and speaking |
| PGWP-eligible flight school | No language requirement |
Results must be less than 2 years old when you submit the application, and IRCC says the test should be taken in person. IRCC uses the same TCF Canada table for the PGWP as for Express Entry, and English tests are accepted too.
Language is only one condition. You must also apply within 180 days of confirmation that you completed your program, and if you applied for your study permit on or after 1 November 2024, college and some university graduates must have studied in an eligible field. Check IRCC’s eligibility page for your case.
Francophone Mobility (C16)
This work permit needs a job offer from an employer outside Québec, in all occupations except primary agriculture jobs in TEER 4 and 5, and needs no labour market impact assessment. Since 15 June 2023 the level is NCLC 5 in speaking and listening only. IRCC lists TEF or TCF results as proof, but also a letter or transcript from a program completed in French, and the officer decides whether the evidence is enough.
For speaking and listening at NCLC 5 on TCF Canada, that means 6 out of 20 in speaking and 369 in listening. All the levels are in the NCLC conversion table. If you later aim for Express Entry, your target becomes NCLC 7 in all four skills, including 10 out of 20 in writing.