What is the CELPIP?
The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program, or CELPIP for short, is an English language assessment tool by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for people looking to apply as Canadian immigrants. Like other language tests, the CELPIP measures listening, reading, writing and speaking skills.
Which test is right for me?
The CELPIP manages two tests: (1) the CELPIP – General, and (2) the CELPIP – General LS.
- The CELPIP – General
- Tests English listening, reading, writing and speaking skills
- Officially designated for permanent residence applications by IRCC
- Also accepted for professional designations
- The exam takes approximately 3 hours to complete
- Fee: $280 CAD + taxes
- The CELPIP – General LS (Only in Canada)
- Tests English listening and speaking skills
- Officially designated for citizenship applications by IRCC
- Also accepted for professional designations
- The exam takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete
- Fee: $195 CAD + taxes
Study with these free resources!
CELPIP Webinars
- CELPIP Speaking Pro
- Most popular free webinar series
- Features interactive lessons that focus on the speaking portion of the exam; opportunities to analyze sample responses from past test takers
- Available monthly and past sessions are posted on the CELPIP YouTube channel
- CELPIP Listening Pro
- A free interactive session focusing on the listening portion of the exam; helps with finding strategies for answering questions and prompts
- CELPIP Writing Pro
- An interactive session focusing on the written portion of the exam
- CELPIP Reading Pro
- Interactive sessions focusing on the reading portion of the exam
- Learn about the format of the reading sections
- CELPIP Live
- A monthly YouTube Livestream where test-takers and viewers can learn about life in Canada, how to prepare for the CELPIP, and chat with CELPIP experts and other test-takers
CELPIP Accelerate
Accelerate Starter is a free online study program that can be accessed once you’ve created a (free) CELPIP account. Accelerate Starter includes over 5 hours of free videos on preparing and responding to questions/prompts, sample quizzes and tests, and other practice questions.
Free Practice Tests
Practice tests are free and available to all CELPIP test-takers. There are two complete practice tests, each including instant results for the listening and reading components. They also include approximate CELPIP level scores at the end. In addition, each test provides a complete set of sample test responses from real test-takers, with answers ranging in difficulty at all three performance levels. Additional practice tests are available for purchase on the CELPIP website.
CELPIP Podcast
The Official CELPIP Podcast discusses the CELPIP exam and tips on how to score well on the exam. The podcast is currently available on Spotify and Apple podcasts, as well as on the CELPIP website.
Why take the CELPIP?
- Computer-delivered
- The CELPIP can be taken in one sitting/session, and the exam includes features like personal timers, word counters and spell-check
- Single North American accent
- The CELPIP’s exam materials and instructions are easy-to-understand, and most of the vocabulary used in the exam is taken from everyday situations
- Quick Online Results
- Your scores/results will be available online 4-5 calendar days after your test date
- Accessible Study Materials
- CELPIP’s official website provides free study resources, sample tests, videos, online information sessions/webinars, and online preparation courses
CELPIP vs. IELTS (General and Academic)
Permanent residency in Canada or citizenship:
- CELPIP
- IELTS General
Schools’ English requirement:
- IELTS Academic
Test style:
- CELPIP (computer-based)
- IELTS General (paper- and computer-based)
- IELTS Academic (paper- and computer-based)
Hours:
- CELPIP – approx. 3 hours
- IELTS General – approx. 2 h 45 m
- IELTS Academic – approx. 2 h 45 m
Cost:
- CELPIP – $280 CAD + tax
- IELTS General – $310-$340 (depends on location)
- IELTS Academic $315-$340 (depends on location)
Locations:
- CELPIP – over 1900 options in Canada
- IELTS General – over 100 official test locations in Canada
- IELTS Academic – over 100 official test locations in Canada
Which one is easier?
Recently, the IELTS test used to be the only option when it came to English language assessment tests. But in the last couple of years, the CELPIP has become widely available in many countries including Canada, the U.S., India, the Philippines, and so on. So the question of whether the CELPIP is easier than the IELTS (and vice versa) has come up quite often.
In truth, there isn’t much difference in terms of difficulty. Both exams are challenging and require a high level of understanding of the English language. What you could consider, though, is whether the CELPIP is a better fit for you than the IELTS. For example:
- Do you prefer computer-based exams over paper-based or hybrid exams?
- Are you comfortable speaking to an examiner? Or do you prefer recording your voice instead?
- Which test is relevant to your future career/decisions?
Sources: IELTS vs. CELPIP: Which Test Should You Take?, CELPIP, Get ready for your CELPIP Canadian immigration test with these free resources
Disclaimer:
The information has been gathered as accurately as possible at the time of writing, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check the official website and digital channels.
