Immigration Information

CELPIP Language Test

What is the Canadian CELPIP Language Test?



Are you considering immigration to Canada?


Demonstrate your English language proficiency through the CELPIP test.

The CELPIP test, or Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program, is administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under the supervision of the University of British Columbia (UBC). It gauges applicants’ abilities in the four language skills: speaking, listening, writing, and reading, serving as the primary English language proficiency test in Canada.

Accepted by professional organizations, colleges, universities, and employers, CELPIP certification enhances your portfolio. Furthermore, it is recognized by various Canadian immigration programs, including Permanent Resident Status, Canadian Citizenship, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Start-up Visa Program, Provincial Nominee Programs, and specific professional bodies.


Purpose of the Canada CELPIP Exam


  1. Daily Communication Skills
  2. Proficiency in Word Usage and Sentence Structure
  3. Understanding and Comprehension
  4. Listening Ability
  5. Communication Across Various Subjects and Fields



Canadian CELPIP Exam Types



The CELPIP exam is categorized into two main types:


  1. CELPIP General Exam for Permanent ResidenceAssesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills for permanent residency.
    Duration: Approximately 3 hours in one session.
  1. General LS Test (CELPIP General LS) for Canadian CitizenshipAssesses listening and speaking skills for citizenship.
    Duration: About 1 hour and 10 minutes in one session.



CELPIP Test Scoring

Scores align with the Canadian Language Standards (CLB) for levels 3 to 12.


Why Choose CELPIP Test?

  1. Computerized Testing

    Minimizes the risk of human errors in results.
    Conveniently completed in one three-hour session.

  1. Time Efficiency

    Results delivered in 4 to 8 working days.

  1. Online and Computerized

    Conducted entirely online and by computer.
    Stress-free online testing for listening and speaking sections.

  1. Real-time Timer

    Timer on the computer screen aids time management during the test.

  1. Writing Section Features

    Word count and automatic editing.
    Assistance in minimizing spelling mistakes.

  1. Cost-Effective

    Lower exam cost compared to other English language tests.

  1. Everyday English Skills

    Tests practical language skills for everyday situations.

Preparation for CELPIP Exam

  1. CELPIP Free Trial Test

    Access free test samples on the CELPIP website to familiarize yourself with the exam structure.

  1. CELPIP Free Practice Test

    Register on the CELPIP site for free sample practice tests with detailed answers.

  1. CELPIP Free Webinars and Workshops

    Attend weekly webinars covering all test components and utilize recorded sessions on the CELPIP YouTube page.

  1. CELPIP Paid Educational Programs

    Purchase a variety of educational resources, practice tests, and online training programs from the CELPIP online store.



Tips for Success in CELPIP Exam

  1. Computer Skills

    Improve your computer skills, including mouse and keyboard usage.
    Practice with free online sample tests.

  1. Everyday Language Practice

    Focus on practical language for everyday situations.

  1. Time Management

    Keep an eye on the timer during the test to pace yourself.

  1. Diversity in Language Use

    Showcase a variety of words and sentence structures.

  1. Natural Speed and Clarity

    Speak at a natural speed with clear pronunciation.

  1. Accent and Grammar

    Don’t worry about your accent; focus on proper grammar and vocabulary.

  1. Review Answers

    Utilize extra time to review and ensure completeness of answers.

  1. Focus on General Meaning

    Understand the general meaning of texts, even if some words are unfamiliar.

CELPIP Exam Resources

Several recommended resources include:


  • CELPIP Focus Reading and Writing book
  • CELPIP Study Guide Listening and Speaking book
  • Common CELPIP Errors book
  • Vocabulary Skills book for CELPIP
  • CELPIP Speaking Practice book
  • CELPIP Writing Practice book
  • The book “Reading your way into English”





Canada CELPIP Exam Fee

The cost of the CELPIP test is approximately 280 Canadian dollars (210 US dollars) for the General test and about 195 Canadian dollars (150 US dollars) for the General-LS test, with additional taxes.

Validity of CELPIP Exam

The CELPIP test results remain valid for a period of two years.