CELPIP and IELTS are the most popular exams to measure English language proficiency. But which is right for you? Well, this blog covers all you need to know about CELPIP v/s IELTS!

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

So, read this blog till the end as we will discuss the main differences between CELPIP and IELTS. 

CELPIP v/s IELTS: Understanding The Tests

What is CELPIP? 

The CELPIP test is a standardized test for assessing the English proficiency of non-native speakers in a Canadian context. Developed by Paragon Testing Enterprises, a University of British Columbia subsidiary, CELPIP has gained significant recognition, specifically within Canada. It is accepted by IRCC for immigration and citizenship purposes, thus making it a central component for those seeking to immigrate to Canada. 

There are two kinds of CELPIP tests. For Canadian immigration, the CELPIP-General test is widely accepted. This version evaluates functional English language proficiency in daily situations, ensuring that immigrants/ newcomers possess the language skills integral for effective communication as well as integration into Canadian society. The CELPIP-General test emphasizes on practical, real-life scenarios that help to select applicants who can seamlessly adapt to Canada’s diverse and dynamic environment, making it an imperative requirement for the immigration process. On the contrary, the CELPIP-General LS test, which assesses only listening and speaking skills, is accepted for Canadian citizenship applications. 

What Is IELTS? 

The IELTS test assesses the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. Established in 1989 and managed by British Council IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English, the IELTS exam has gained widespread recognition. Around 12,000 organizations in more than 150 countries, including Canada, making it a key factor for immigration.   

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

Test Format and Structure 

Another thing to know about CELPIP v/s IELTS is the test format and structure. 

IELTS Format    

For the IELTS exam format, you will have both paper-based tests and computer-based test options. Also, the test is divided into four sections, i.e., Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening. 

  • Listening

This section lasts 30 minutes and includes four recordings of native English speakers. Test-takers answer questions which assess their ability to understand the main ideas, details, opinions, and attitudes of speakers and follow their ideas’ development. 

  • Reading

This section lasts for 60 minutes and consists of three texts with 40 questions. The text ranges from descriptive and factual to discursive and analytical. The Academic version consists of texts suitable for students entering the university courses. On the other hand, the General Training version includes texts from books, newspapers, magazines, notices, and company handbooks. 

  • Writing

The writing section also lasts for 60 minutes and includes two tasks. In the Academic version, task one includes describing visual information, and task two involves writing an essay. Test takers will have to undertake just two tasks in the General Training version. Task one involves writing a letter, and the second task is composing an essay. 

  • Speaking  

The IELTS speaking exam takes 11-14 minutes and includes a face-to-face interview with an examiner. It is divided in three parts: an introduction as well as an interview, a short speech, and a discussion. The test might be scheduled on the same day as the other sections or up to a week before/ after. 

CELPIP Format 

The CELPIP exam is a computer-based test. The test also consists of four sections: 

  • Listening

This section lasts 47-55 minutes and includes various parts with several question types. Test takers will be evaluated on their capability to understand conversations and lectures in English, which reflect typical Canadian situations. 

  • Reading

This section is over 55-60 minutes long and includes multiple parts with different types of questions. The reading materials are specially designed to test comprehension of the written English used in daily life. 

  • Writing

The writing section lasts for 53-60 minutes and includes two tasks. Test takers consist of writing an email and responding to survey questions, reflecting practical writing tasks that are encountered in daily life. 

  • Speaking 

This section is around 15-20 minutes long and includes eight tasks. These tasks assess speaking skills in various scenarios, like giving advice, talking about personal experiences, as well as expressing your opinions. Also, remember that the CELPIP speaking test is completely computer-based, while the IELTS speaking test is face-to-face with an examiner. 

How To Choose Between IELTS and CELPIP?

To know about CELPIP v/s IELTS, let us discuss how you can choose between the two. 

Well, choosing between both exams depends on various factors, including your goals, test preferences, and familiarity with the test formats. Also, if you are planning to move to Canada, both tests are accepted by IRCC. However, if you are more comfortable with British/ international English contexts and have prior experience with standardized tests which are globally recognized, then IELTS might be a better choice for you.

IELTS offers both Academic as well as General Training versions, which can be beneficial if you want to pursue higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking nation other than Canada. 

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

Conclusion 

Choosing between CELPIP and IELTS depends on your goals, test preferences, and familiarity with test formats. CELPIP is ideal for candidates focusing on Canadian immigration, reflecting Canadian English and real-life scenarios. It is entirely computer-based, offering a seamless experience for tech-savvy individuals. 

Conversely, IELTS provides a globally recognized test format, making it suitable for broader academic and professional purposes beyond Canada. With paper-based and computer-based options, IELTS caters to diverse preferences. 

Carefully consider your strengths, comfort with test methods, and long-term aspirations to select the exam that aligns best with your immigration or professional journey!

If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490. You can also drop us an email at [email protected].