CELPIP: The English Language Test for Immigration to Canada
Let's explore the unique features and benefits of the CELPIP test.
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is a Canadian test to assess English language proficiency. It was developed by Paragon Testing Enterprises, a Canadian English language assessment center, in close collaboration with the Canadian Ministry of Immigration. This test may serve as a Canadian alternative to the international IELTS test and is widely used for immigration to the country.
Types of CELPIP Tests
There are two versions of this test that suit different needs: CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS.
CELPIP-General is suitable for candidates applying for immigration programs to obtain permanent residency and some professional licenses. The entire test takes about three hours and assesses four skills:
- Listening — 47-55 minutes;
- Reading — 55-60 minutes;
- Writing — 53-60 minutes;
- Speaking — 15-20 minutes.
CELPIP-General LS is designed for Canadian citizenship applications and also some professional licenses. This test takes 1 hour 10 minutes and assesses only two skills:
- Listening — 47-55 minutes;
- Speaking — 15-20 minutes.
Advantages of the CELPIP Test
The CELPIP test has several advantages that make taking it convenient for users:
- Computer-based format. The test is fully computerized and equipped with convenient features such as a timer, automatic word counter, and spell check. The computer format also makes the testing process more objective and standardized.
- Canadian context. As the test was developed specifically for Canadian needs, it focuses on lexical features and accents used in everyday situations in this country.
- Quick results. Test results are available online within 3-4 business days after taking the test.
- Access to preparation materials. A vast array of preparation materials is openly available right on the official website. Here you can find tests, videos, and courses, both paid and free. Videos and webinars explain in detail how the test works and its structure and provide useful tips for passing. Additionally, there's an opportunity to take a free practice test and practice various types of tasks.
Disadvantages of the CELPIP Test
Unfortunately, CELPIP is limited in its geographical availability. This test cannot be taken remotely, and official test centers are not available in all regions of the world.
Currently, testing is available in the following countries by region:
- East Asia: Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, China;
- South Asia: Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India;
- Southeast Asia: Singapore, Philippines;
- Middle East: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates;
- Africa: Nigeria;
- Oceania: Australia;
- Europe: United Kingdom;
- North America: USA, Canada.
Moreover, since the test is designed for immigration programs and obtaining permanent residency and citizenship, it is generally not suitable for those who need to take a language exam for study permits.
Types of Tasks
The assessment of each skill includes a range of different tasks with varying numbers of questions:
| Skill Assessed | Task Types | Number of Questions |
| Listening | Practice Task | 1 |
| Part 1: Listening to Problem Solving | 8 | |
| Part 2: Listening to a Daily Life Conversation | 5 | |
| Part 3: Listening for Information | 6 | |
| Part 4: Listening to a News Item | 5 | |
| Part 5: Listening to a Discussion | 8 | |
| Part 6: Listening to Viewpoints | 6 | |
| Reading | Practice Task | 1 |
| Part 1: Reading Correspondence | 11 | |
| Part 2: Reading to Apply a Diagram | 8 | |
| Part 3: Reading for Information | 9 | |
| Part 4: Reading for Viewpoints | 10 | |
| Writing | Task 1: Writing an Email | 1 |
| Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions | 1 | |
| Speaking | Practice Task | 1 |
| Task 1: Giving Advice | 1 | |
| Task 2: Talking about a Personal Experience | 1 | |
| Task 3: Describing a Scene | 1 | |
| Task 4: Making Predictions | 1 | |
| Task 5: Comparing and Persuading | 1 | |
| Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation | 1 | |
| Task 7: Expressing Opinions | 1 | |
| Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation | 1 |
CELPIP Scores
Each section of the test is scored on the CELPIP level scale. The scores obtained on the test will reflect the level of English language proficiency.
Since CELPIP test results are aligned with the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels, which are specified in the requirements of all immigration programs, the test developers provide correspondences between CELPIP and CLB levels for candidates:
| Proficiency Level | CELPIP Score | CLB Equivalent |
| Advanced proficiency in workplace and community contexts | 12 | 12 |
| Advanced proficiency in workplace and community contexts | 11 | 11 |
| Highly effective proficiency in workplace and community contexts | 10 | 10 |
| Effective proficiency in workplace and community contexts | 9 | 9 |
| Good proficiency in workplace and community contexts | 8 | 8 |
| Adequate proficiency in workplace and community contexts | 7 | 7 |
| Developing proficiency in workplace and community contexts | 6 | 6 |
| Acquiring proficiency in workplace and community contexts | 5 | 5 |
| Adequate proficiency for daily life activities | 4 | 4 |
| Some proficiency in limited contexts | 3 | 3 |
| Limited proficiency in contexts of immediate needs | 2 | 1,2 |
| Insufficient information to assess | 1 | - |
| Insufficient information to assess | 0 | - |
| Not administered: test taker did not receive a score for the component | N/A | - |
Cost and Registration Process
The CELPIP-General test costs $280 CAD, while the CELPIP-General LS test costs $195 CAD. However, prices may vary depending on the country where you plan to take the test due to local taxes and fees.
You can register for a specific date and time to take the test online by choosing the desired CELPIP center in your country.
After registering, you'll receive a confirmation email with your registration number, name as it appears on your ID, test location information, and requirements for identification documents to bring with you.
On test day, arrive 45 minutes before the start time. Registration closes 15 minutes before the test begins, and latecomers are not admitted. Bring the original ID used during registration, which will be the only item allowed in the testing room. All other belongings, including electronic devices, must be stored in a bag or locker. Test center staff may conduct a personal search and will take your photograph. Remember that cheating or attempting to cheat can result in your test scores being canceled.
How to Prepare for the Test
As mentioned earlier, the CELPIP website offers many materials for self-study. However, sometimes self-study may not be enough.
If you want to ensure the desired results, consider seeking help from specialists. The Canadian language school ILAC offers specialized courses to prepare for international tests, including CELPIP. The test developers themselves recommend this school for those aiming for good results.
Our company, Immigrant.Today, is also an ILAC partner, so you can enroll in courses directly through us. For any questions, please contact us at mail@immigrant.today.
