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by ImmiLaw Global

Which Test to Take for Canadian Migration: IELTS or CELPIP?

In today's globalized world, proficiency in English is essential for many aspects of life, especially if you are looking to move to Canada. Whether you aim to study abroad, land your dream job, or start a new life in a different country, fluency in English can open doors and pave the way for success.

The CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) and the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are two of the most popular tests to prove your English proficiency. Each test has its own format and focus, making it essential to choose the one that best fits your needs.

Let us delve deep into the two tests, CELPIP and IELTS, to help you decide which test suits you the best for Canadian immigration.

What is the CELPIP, or Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program?

The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program, or CELPIP, is an English language assessment designed to evaluate the proficiency of non-native speakers in a Canadian context. The CELPIP test is for individuals who need to prove their English abilities for immigration, permanent residency, or professional designation purposes in Canada. It is approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and accepted by various Canadian organisations and employers for immigration and citizenship purposes.

The CELPIP test comes in two primary varieties: the CELPIP-General and the CELPIP-General LS Test.

  • CELPIP-General LS Test
    The test is for individuals applying for Canadian PR through various immigration programs. It ensures that candidates have the necessary language skills for effective communication and integration into Canadian society.
  • CELPIP-General LS Test
    The test is used for Canadian citizenship applications. The test only checks speaking and listening abilities.

What is the IELTS, or International English Language Testing System?

IELTS is a widely recognised English language proficiency test for non-native speakers, accepted by over 12,000 organisations across more than 150 countries, including Canada. Those who want to learn, find employment, or relocate to English-speaking nations must take the test.

The IELTS Academic and General Training are the two main test formats.

  • IELTS Academic
    The exam is meant for people who want to qualify as professionals in an English-speaking setting or get admitted to institutes of higher learning. Tasks that mimic the language used in academic settings are used to assess academic English proficiency.
  • IELTS General Training
    The exam is intended for immigration purposes and covers common English use for social and professional contexts. It assesses practical language abilities necessary for effective communication in daily life.

What are the main features of the IELTS Test format?

There are two test formats available on the IELTS: computer-based and paper-based. All four language skills—speaking, reading, writing, and listening—are evaluated on the IELTS exam, guaranteeing a thorough assessment of English proficiency.

Each section has distinct question types and formats to measure different aspects of language use. Results are scored on a band scale from 0 to 9, with higher scores indicating greater proficiency.

How Do the IELTS Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening Components Operate?

1. Listening

  • Duration: About 30 minutes total, plus an additional 10 minutes for transferring answers to the answer sheet.
  • Format: Four recordings of native English speakers are included in the Listening section. The recordings, which get harder and harder, are only played once.
  • Question Types: Includes multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, sentence completion, and matching tasks.

2. Reading

  • Duration: 60 minutes.
  • Format: There are 40 questions on three readings in the reading portion. The books' styles and levels of difficulty differ.
  • Question types: Includes multiple-choice, matching headers, and fill-in-the-blanks, much like in the listening section.

3. Writing

  • Duration: 60 minutes.
  • Format: The Writing section contains two tasks.

Academic Version

Task 1: Explain visual data, such as charts or graphs.
Task 2: Compose an essay answering a particular query or contention.

General Training Version

Task 1: Compose a letter, either formal or informal.
Task 2: Write an essay on a specified subject.

4. Speaking

  • Duration: 11-14 minutes.
  • Format: Conducted in three sections as a face-to-face interview with an examiner.
  • Question Types: General questions about familiar topics (e.g., home, work), a short speech on a given topic with one minute to prepare, and a discussion based on the topic from Part 2, exploring profound ideas and opinions.

How Does the IELTS Scoring System Work?

The IELTS tests English language skills using a band score system that runs from 0 to 9, with half-band scores also being offered. The four components—speaking, writing, listening, and reading—are all given separate scores.

Listening and Reading consist of 40 questions each, with each correct answer earning one mark, which is then converted to a band score.

The Writing and Speaking sections are assessed based on task achievement, coherence, lexical resource, and grammatical accuracy.

The overall band score is calculated by averaging the individual section scores and rounding to the nearest half or whole band.

This comprehensive scoring approach shows a candidate's English proficiency across all essential skills.

1. Listening

  • Duration: 47-55 minutes.
  • Structure: Includes a practice task followed by six parts that assess various listening skills through audio recordings.

2. Reading

  • Duration: 55-60 minutes
  • Structure: Multiple parts with 38 questions that evaluate reading comprehension in practical contexts.

3. Writing 

  • Duration: 53-60 minutes.
  • Structure: Writing an email and answering survey questions are the two jobs.

4. Speaking 

  • Duration: 15-20 minutes.
  • Structure: Includes eight tasks to assess speaking skills in various scenarios, such as giving advice and expressing opinions.

How does the CELPIP Scoring system work?

The CELPIP scoring system evaluates English proficiency across four components: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, with scores ranging from 1 to 12.

Listening and Reading scores are calculated automatically based on the number of correct answers, while certified raters assess Writing and Speaking by evaluating your responses according to specific criteria.

The overall score for the CELPIP is derived by averaging the scores from each component, providing a clear indication of the test taker's proficiency level. This score aligns with the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels, which are essential for immigration purposes.

This comprehensive scoring approach ensures a reliable assessment of a candidate's English language abilities.

Which test suits you best for your long-term goals: IELTS or CELPIP?

It's time to choose the test that best fits your needs and objectives now that you are familiar with the IELTS and CELPIP. IRCC recognises both, but they cater to different preferences and objectives.

IELTS may be a better option for you if you have familiarity with internationally acknowledged standardised assessments and are at ease speaking British or international English. It offers Academic and General Training versions, which can be beneficial if you plan to pursue higher education or professional registration in other English-speaking countries.

However, CELPIP might be more suitable if your main goal is to settle in Canada and you are more accustomed to Canadian English and culture. The material of CELPIP is based on real-world situations and is tailored to Canadian circumstances, which can help you get ready for living in Canada. Moreover, CELPIP is entirely computer-based, which may appeal to those who prefer typing over speaking in front of an examiner.

The decision between CELPIP and IELTS ultimately comes down to how well the test fits your goals and skill level. If you're looking to settle in Canada or if you want to keep your options open for international opportunities, picking the proper test can really enhance your confidence and improve your chances of success.

So, take a moment to consider what you truly want and make a choice that paves the way for your future aspirations! You may also contact ImmiLaw Global for expert guidance. We are here to help you with what you truly want and help you make a choice that paves the way for your future aspirations!

Which Test is Simpler: IELTS or CELPIP?

The answer to the question of which is easier, the IELTS or the CELPIP, primarily depends on personal preferences and strengths. The belief that one test is inherently easier than the other is a misconception. Although both the IELTS and CELPIP are intended to evaluate English language proficiency in a comprehensive manner, they do so in different ways to accommodate various test-takers.

Your choice should be influenced by elements including the availability of test centres, your present location, your level of proficiency with Canadian English, and whether you prefer computer-based or paper-based exams. It's crucial to select the exam format that gives you the most comfort and confidence. By carefully considering your strengths and preparing, you can set yourself up for success in whichever test you choose.

As one of the leading immigration consultants, ImmiLaw Global specialises in providing tailored services for individuals looking to immigrate to Canada and other countries. ImmiLaw Global will help you choose between IELTS, and CELPIP based on your long-term goals, strengths, and needs. Our experienced consultants provide personalised guidance, ensuring you select the test that best aligns with your circumstances, ultimately enhancing your confidence and chances of success in your immigration journey.

Feel free to contact us for more details

Read more: Top Canadian Universities to Study Without IELTS in 2024