If you are planning to move to Canada or apply for a special condition in English speaking countries, you will need to perform IELTS, TOEFL, or CELPIP tests. You may know IELTS AND TOEFL, but how about CELPIP? Do you know What is CELPIP exam? In this guide, we will explain what is CELPIP exam.
The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program : CELPIP
What is CELPIP test? CELPIP is the abbreviation of the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program. This test is officially recognized by IRCC and several professional organizations across Canada. It evaluates 4 major aspects.
CELPIP is 100% computer delivered, including the speaking section. That means you will be speaking directly into a microphone and will not have an examiner facing you.
Types of CELPIP Tests
There are 2 types of CELPIP tests. Each of these tests has its special aim. For example, if you are applying for citizenship in Canada, take the General LS Test.
CELPIP - General Test
The General Test is recognized for Immigration purposes, because it is a requirement for a permanent residency application for the Canadian Express Entry. It is also useful for Professional licensing, because it is required by Canadian regulators for a variety of professions.
CELPIP - General LS Test
The CELPIP-General LS Test is a shorter test of only 2 skills: Listening and Speaking. It's primarily used for applicants for Canadian citizenship, where reading and writing are not required.
Why Do You Need the CELPIP Test?
The CELPIP is accepted by several Canadian government departments, universities, and employers as proof of a person's language abilities.
Immigration Purposes
As we have said before, IRCC accepts the CELPIP test, so you can use this test to obtain valid degrees and scores in the following departments:
● Express Entry
● Federal Skilled Worker Program
● Canadian Experience Class
● Provincial Nominee Programs
Employment opportunities
Employers often ask for standardized English scores in order to measure candidates. If you are going to work in Canada, a valid CELPIP score will help your resume stand out to employers.
Some professional associations and regulatory bodies in Canada also accept CELPIP test scores for licensing or accreditation purposes, particularly those in the areas of:
● Healthcare, nursing, and medical assistance
● Education and training
● Customer service and hospitality
Other Reasons for Needing CELPIP
This test has different benefits, so you can choose it and achieve your target via this English proficiency test. Here are the other reasons for needing this test:
● Is acceptable for Canadian Citizenship Applications
● Recognized by Professional and Licensing Organizations
● Created for Canadian English
Test Format: Understanding CELPIP Components
It's important to know the test format and practice time management in CELPIP Test! You should develop a time management and test strategy while practicing to avoid surprises in the test.
Skill | Duration | Sections | Content |
Listening | 47-55 mins | 6 Parts | conversations, discussions, and solving problems |
Reading | 55-60 mins | 4 Parts | understand texts such as, emails, advertisements, or instructions |
Writing | 53 to 60 mins | 2 parts | Writing an email and writing about a situation |
Speaking | 15 to 20 mins | 8 parts | Giving your advice, provide suggestions and describe a special condition |
CELPIP vs IELTS: What’s the Difference?
After getting familiar with CELPIP means and understanding the CELPIP full form, you will know it is not the same as IELTS. There are some differences, as shown in the chart below. Check out the information about CELPIP vs IELTS.
Feature | CELPIP | IELTS |
Format | 100% computer-based | Not 100% computer-based |
Speaking | Recorded, in test room | In person, with an examiner |
Accent | Canadian English | British/American accents |
Time | 3 hours | 2 hours 45 mins |
Content Type | Real-life | English Academic/General English |
Scoring and Results
You will receive a CELPIP score that is on a scale of 12 for each skill. Your final score is the average of your scores from each of the 4 sections. Generally, scoring is available 4 to 5 business days after you complete your test.
Skill | Level |
12 | Advanced Proficiency |
9-11 | Proficient |
7-8 | Adequate |
5-6 | Limited |
1-4 | Minimal |
How to Register for the CELPIP Exam
You can easily register for the CELPIP exam. You only need to follow steps below:
● Go to the official CELPIP website.
● Select the type of CELPIP test: General and General LS.
● Choose the date and location for your test.
● Make your payment on the Internet.
● Get confirmation
Tips to Prepare for the CELPIP Exam
Here is how to prepare:
● Get an early start by familiarizing yourself with different types of questions, timing, and format, as these can all differ.
● Have a CELPIP practice test
● Create a CELPIP study plan that is structured so that you can dedicate time to each skill.
● Develop listening and reading skills
● Listen to Canadian podcasts, watch a Canadian TV show, and read Canadian newspapers to improve your communication and reading comprehension.
● Improve your written and spoken skills
● Respond to prompts before your test, practice writing emails, and record your spoken answers to each of the question prompts.
● Learn from mistakes
● Discover and avoid the most common CELPIP mistakes, such as misreading instructions and over complicating your answers.
● Practice completing everything within the time allotted