CELPIP vs IELTS: Which Test is Right for You?

Published on: July 16th, 2024

By: Indira Duarte

Among the most popular exams to measure English language proficiency, are the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and the CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program). But which test is the right one for you?

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In today’s globalized world, demonstrating English proficiency has become a decisive requirement for immigration, education, and professional advancement. Regarding Canadian immigration, your English language proficiency test choice will significantly impact your application process.

Learn about the main differences when comparing CELPIP vs IELTS. By the end of this blog post, you’ll have a clear understanding of which test aligns best with your immigration goals and personal strengths, ensuring you make an informed decision.

CELPIP vs IELTS: Understanding the Tests

What is CELPIP?

The CELPIP test, or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program, is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers in a Canadian context. Developed by Paragon Testing Enterprises, a subsidiary of the University of British Columbia, CELPIP has gained significant recognition, particularly within Canada. It is officially accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for immigration and citizenship purposes, making it a central component for those seeking to move to Canada.

There are two types of CELPIP tests. For Canadian immigration, the CELPIP-General test is the one accepted. This version evaluates functional English language proficiency in everyday situations, ensuring that immigrants possess the language skills necessary for effective communication and integration into Canadian society. The CELPIP-General test focuses on practical, real-life scenarios that help to select candidates who can seamlessly adapt to Canada’s diverse and dynamic environment, making it an imperative requirement of the immigration process. On the other hand, the CELPIP-General LS test, which assesses only listening and speaking skills, is accepted for Canadian citizenship applications.

What is IELTS?

The IELTS test, or the International English Language Testing System, is a standardized test designed to assess the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. Established in 1989 and managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English, the IELTS exam has gained widespread recognition. Over 12,000 organizations in more than 150 countries, including Canada, accept IELTS scores, making it a key factor for immigration.

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There are two IELTS tests available, the first one is IELTS academic, but for Canadian immigration, the IELTS General Training test is the one accepted. This version focuses on essential survival skills in everyday social and workplace contexts, ensuring that immigrants have the English proficiency necessary for effective communication and integration into Canadian society. The rigorous assessment provided by the General Training version of the IELTS test helps to select candidates who can contribute positively to Canada’s diverse and dynamic environment.

Test Format and Structure

IELTS Format

For the IELTS exam format, you have both a paper-based test and a computer-based test option. Also, the test is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Listening: This section lasts for 30 minutes and includes four recordings of native English speakers. Test-takers answer questions that assess their ability to understand main ideas, details, opinions, and attitudes of speakers, as well as follow the development of ideas.
Reading: This section is 60 minutes long and consists of three texts with a total of 40 questions. The texts range from descriptive and factual to discursive and analytical. The Academic version includes texts suitable for students entering university courses, while the General Training version includes texts from books, magazines, newspapers, notices, and company handbooks.
Writing: This writing test also lasts for 60 minutes and includes two tasks. In the Academic version, task one requires describing visual information (e.g., graphs or charts), and task two involves writing an essay. In the General Training version, test takers will have to undertake two tasks. Task one involves writing a letter, and task two is to compose an essay.
Speaking: The IELTS speaking exam takes 11-14 minutes and involves a face-to-face interview with an examiner. It is divided into three parts: an introduction and interview, a short speech, and a discussion. The Speaking test may be scheduled on the same day as the other sections or up to a week before or after.

Learn more about the IELTS test score and its CLB Equivalency in Our Canadian Language Benchmark Guide

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CELPIP Format

The CELPIP exam is entirely a computer-based test. The test also consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Listening: This section lasts about 47-55 minutes and includes multiple parts with various question types. Test takers will be evaluated on their ability to understand conversations and lectures in English, reflecting typical Canadian situations.
Reading: This section is 55-60 minutes long and includes several parts with different question types. The reading materials are designed to test comprehension of the written English used in everyday Canadian life.
Writing: The writing test lasts 53-60 minutes and consists of two tasks. Test takers are required to write an email and respond to survey questions, reflecting practical writing tasks encountered in daily life.
Speaking: This section is about 15-20 minutes long and includes eight tasks. These tasks are designed to assess speaking skills in various scenarios, such as giving advice, talking about personal experiences, and expressing opinions. Also, keep in mind that the CELPIP speaking test is computer-based, while the IELTS speaking test is face-to-face with an examiner.

Learn more about the CELPIP test score and its CLB Equivalency in Our Canadian Language Benchmark Guide

CELPIP vs IELTS Comparison Table

Section	IELTS Format	Duration	CELPIP Format	Duration
Listening	Four recordings with questions	30 minutes	Multiple parts	47-55 minutes
Reading	Three texts with questions	60 minutes	Multiple parts	55-60 minutes
Writing	Two tasks (essay, visual/letter)	60 minutes	Two tasks (email, survey)	53-60 minutes
Speaking	Face-to-face interview (3 parts)	11-14 minutes	Eight tasks	15-20 minutes

How to Choose Between IELTS and CELPIP

Choosing between IELTS and CELPIP depends on several factors, including your specific goals, test preferences, and familiarity with the test formats. If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, both tests are accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). However, if you are more comfortable with British or international English contexts and have prior experience with standardized tests that are globally recognized, IELTS might be the better choice for you. IELTS offers both Academic and General Training versions, which can be advantageous if you also aim to pursue higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking country other than Canada.

On the other hand, if your primary goal is to settle in Canada and you are more familiar with Canadian English and cultural contexts, CELPIP might be more suitable. CELPIP is designed specifically for Canadian English usage, and its test content reflects real-life scenarios in Canada, which can help you better prepare for life in the country. Additionally, the CELPIP exam is entirely computer-based, which might be preferable for test takers who are comfortable with typing and navigating digital interfaces. Considering these factors, it’s important to evaluate your strengths, test-taking preferences, and long-term goals to make an informed decision between IELTS and CELPIP.

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Which of the Two Exams is Easier?

Determining which exam is easier, IELTS or CELPIP, is subjective and largely depends on individual preferences and strengths. The idea that one test is inherently easier than the other is a myth. Both IELTS and CELPIP are designed to assess English language proficiency comprehensively, but they do so in different ways, appealing to different types of test-takers.

The IELTS test has a broader international focus, which might be more familiar to those who have been exposed to various English dialects and contexts. Its face-to-face Speaking section can be advantageous for those who perform better in direct interaction. On the other hand, the CELPIP test is tailored specifically for Canadian English and real-life scenarios in Canada, which might make it feel more relevant and practical for those aiming to immigrate to Canada. The CELPIP exam is entirely computer-based, which could be easier for individuals comfortable with digital interfaces.

Ultimately, the selection between IELTS and CELPIP depends entirely on the test taker. Factors such as the availability of test centers, your current location, whether you are already living in Canada, and your preference for paper-based or computer-based exams should all play a role in your decision. It’s crucial to choose the exam format that makes you feel most comfortable and confident. Take into account your familiarity with British or Canadian English and your ease with digital interfaces versus traditional paper formats. After selecting the exam that best fits your needs, dedicate time to thorough preparation to ensure your best performance.

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CELPIP vs IELTS: Which Test is Right for You?