CELPIP Exam: Types, Format, Score Chart, Registration Fee

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Aarushi Jain
Updated on Jul 25, 2022 01:39 PM IST

The Canadian English Language Ability Index Program (CELPIP) is an English language exam that applicants take to demonstrate their proficiency in the language. Let us shed some more light on this exam. 

CELPIP Exam: Types, Format, Score Chart, Registration Fee

The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program, or CELPIP, is a method for assessing English language skills such as listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Paragon Testing Enterprises, a division of the University of British Columbia, administers the CELPIP exam.

Paragon is the only Canadian company delivering Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) designated English proficiency tests. The CELPIP test is available in two types: CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS.

The CELPIP-Academic Test was retired by Paragon Testing Enterprises in June 2015, after the acquisition of the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Assessment. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about the CELPIP exam for moving to Canada.

Wish to Study and Work in Canada?

What is CELPIP?

CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is a test of English proficiency for entry into Canada. The exam is widely acknowledged in many professions, which contributes to its popularity. The purpose of the test is to assess linguistic skills in English. CELPIP is only available in Canada.

The test is the foundation for your confidence that you will be able to adapt to Canadian culture and communication methods.

Overview of the CELPIP Exam

Overview of the CELPIP exam presented here summarises all the important and relevant information about the exam:

Parameters

Description

Official Name of CELPIP

Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program

Testing Authority

Paragon Testing Enterprises, a subsidiary of the University of British Columbia (UBC)

Parent Country

Canada

Type of Exam

English language assessment

Exam Duration

CELPIP General: 3 hours

CELPIP General LS: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Parts/Section

4 (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking)

Exam Fees

INR 10,845 + taxes

Minimum Score Required for PR in Canada

5 or higher in each component

Why Choose CELPIP?

There are numerous reasons why one should select the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program. Some of these causes are as follows:

The Use of Canadian English

This exam is unique in that it is written in Canadian English. The same is true of the Canadian accent. The exam is fully Canadian orientated because it is designed exclusively for Canada.

Computer-Based Examination

The CELPIP, unlike the other tests, is a computer-based test. Apart from the test, there is no hassle with the interviews and other processes. Reading and writing are displayed on the screen, while speaking and listening are accomplished through the speaker and microphone.

Online Results

The CELPIP exam results are available within 8 business days. The exam results are published online.

Free Study Materials

If you give the CELPIP exam, you will get and have access to free sample tests, videos, online information sessions, preparation courses, and webinars to prepare for your exam.

Types of CELPIP Exams

There are 2 types of CELPIP exams, which are as follows:

  1. CELPIP General
  2. CELPIP General LS

CELPIP General

IRCC, the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council, and the Real Estate Council of British Columbia all recognize the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program or CELPIP General test. The candidate's reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills are assessed in the CELPIP General Test.

The CELPIP-General Test is a common exam used by persons seeking permanent resident status in Canada through the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Start-up Visa Program, Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and a variety of Provincial Nominee Programs. This test is also appropriate for persons looking for work. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada have authorised the CELPIP-General Test (IRCC).

CELPIP General LS

The CELPIP-General LS Test assesses the candidate's functional Listening and Speaking abilities. This LS test is given to persons who need to demonstrate their listening and speaking skills in order to obtain Canadian citizenship. The CELPIP General Test takes nearly 3 hours to complete and can be completed in one sitting with no separate speaking session.

CELPIP Exam Centres in India

Currently, the CELPIP test is only available in 7 states in India which are:

  • New Delhi

  • Karnataka

  • Haryana

  • Maharashtra

  • Chandigarh

  • Tamil Nadu

  • Telangana

CELPIP Test Dates 2022

Candidates in India can only take the CELPIP-General Test. This CELPIP test is available in three cities: Chandigarh, Delhi, and Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The CELPIP General Test is given several times a year. However, you must choose a date and time for registration based on your location. You can register for the test whenever it is convenient for you.

CELPIP General LS vs IELTS

The table tabulated below will explain the difference between CELPIP General LS vs IELTS General Test:

CELPIP General LS vs IELTS

IELTS General

CELPIP General LS

100% Computer-based

Yes

Yes

Single North American Accent

No

Yes

Skills Tested in 1 Sitting

No

Yes

Who Accepts CELPIP?

Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program is recognized by a number of organizations. These are some examples where your CELPIP scores will be required:

  • Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

  • Numerous Provincial Nominee Programs

  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

  • Permanent Resident Status

  • Canadian Citizenship

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

  • Start-up Visa Program

How to Apply for CELPIP Exam?

There are three ways to register for the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program:

  • Through mail

  • In-person

  • Online

Online Registration

Those who live outside of Canada and will be taking the exam only outside of Canada must register online:

  • Check that you have a genuine identity document

  • To make an online payment, you needed a valid credit/debit card

Here are the steps CELPIP Test Online Registration Procedures:

  • Visit the CELPIP's official website

  • Please include all relevant information

  • Choose a test date and location

  • Make a payment online

Know the Uses of the CELPIP Exam!

CELPIP Registration Fee

The CELPIP Test registration fee is INR 10,845 + taxes.

CELPIP Registration Form (PDF) - This form can only be used to register within Canada.

To register for a CELPIP Test, candidates must pay using a money order. The CELPIP test registration period ends one business day before the test date or when the sitting is full, whichever comes first.

Express Rating Fee

Types of CELPIP

Fees in CAD

Express Rating General Test

100 + tax

(150 + tax for international testing)

Express Rating General LS Test

70 + tax

Regular Rating General Test and General LS Test

Free

CELPIP Test Format

The table tabulated below will explain you the CELPIP test format and exam pattern:

Test Type

CELPIP-General

CELPIP-General LS

Components

Writing

Speaking

Listening

Reading

Speaking

Listening

Test time

3 hours

1 hour and 10 minutes

The CELPIP exam is completely computer-based, with no further appointments or interviews. The examination pattern or test format is as follows:

CELPIP Listening Section

The total time allotted for the CELPIP Listening section is 47 minutes.

CELPIP General Test

Component Sections

Number of Questions

Practice Test

2

Part 1: Listening to Problem Solving

8

Part 2: Listening to a Daily Life Conversation

5

Part 3: Listening for Information

6

Part 4: Listening to a News Item

5

Part 5: Listening to a Discussion

8

Part 6: Listening to Viewpoints

6

Part 7: Unscored Items

58

CELPIP General LS Test

Component Sections

Number of Questions

Part 1: Identifying Similar Meanings

2

Part 2: Answering Questions

8

Part 3: Listening to Problem Solving

5

Part 4: Listening to a Daily Life Conversation

6

Part 5: Listening for Information

5

Part 6: Listening to a News Item

8

Part 7: Listening to a Discussion

6

Part 8: Listening to Viewpoints

5-8

CELPIP Reading Section

The total time allotted for the CELPIP Reading section is 60 minutes.

CELPIP General Test

Component Sections

Number of Questions

Part 1: Reading Corresponding

11

Part 2: Reading to Apply a Diagram

8

Part 3: Information Reading

9

Part 4: Viewpoints Reading

10

CELPIP Writing Section

The total time allotted for the CELPIP Writing section is 53 minutes:

CELPIP General Test

Component Sections

Number of Questions

Task 1: E-mail writing

1

Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions

1

CELPIP Speaking Section

The total time allotted for the CELPIP Speaking section is 15-20 minutes. Below is the speaking section test format for the CELPIP General test and CELPIP General LS test:

Component Sections

Number of Questions

Task 0: Practice Task

1

Task 1: Giving Advice

1

Task 2: Talking about a Personal Experience

1

Task 3: Describing a Scene

1

Task 4: Making Predictions

1

Task 5: Persuading and Comparing

1

Task 6: Difficult Situation Dealing

1

Task 7: Opinion Expression

1

Task 8: Unusual Situation Description

1

CELPIP Scores and Results

The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program results get available online in eight business days. Those who require a CELPIP score quickly can select Express Rating and receive their results online in three working days.

Candidates are notified via email when their CELPIP score is ready. Candidates can view their scores in their CELPIP accounts online. They can access the results for two years after the test date.

Note: Additional CELPIP Official Score Reports cost around CAD 20 + Taxes.

A CELPIP level is assigned to each component of the CELPIP - General Test and the CELPIP - General LS Test. Each CELPIP level and its related description are shown in the chart below. We have provided the CLB level equivalencies for your convenience because the CELPIP exam scores have been calibrated to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels.

CELPIP Level

CELPIP Descriptor

Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) Level

M

Insufficient proficiency or information to assess

0, 1, 2

3

Some competence in specific contexts

3

4

sufficient proficiency for day-to-day activities

4

5

Proficiency in community and corporate settings is required

5

6

Still gaining proficiency in community and workplace settings

6

7

Competence in community and workplace settings

7

8

Excellent proficiency in community and workplace settings

8

9

Effective proficiency in community and workplace settings

9

10

Highly effective proficiency in community and workplace settings

10

11

Excellent proficiency in community and workplace settings

11

12

Excellent proficiency in community and workplace settings

12

CELPIP Levels & Approximate Scores for the Listening Test

Tabulated below are the CELPIP Listening test levels and the approximated scores that you have achieved at each level:

CELPIP Levels

Approximate Scores (Out of 38)

10-12

35-38

9

33-35

8

30-33

7

27-31

6

22-28

5

17-23

4

11-18

3

7-12

M

0-7

CELPIP Levels & Approximate Scores for the Reading Test

Tabulated below are the CELPIP Reading test levels and the approximated scores that you have achieved at each level:

CELPIP Levels

Approximate Scores (Out of 38)

10-12

33-38

9

31-33

8

28-31

7

24-28

6

19-25

5

15-20

4

10-16

3

8-11

M

0-7

Still confused about how to immigrate and settle in Canada? Reach out to experts at abroad@collegedekho.com and allow them to make you land in Canada in the easiest way possible!

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FAQs

What kind of identification document can I use for the CELPIP exam?

The acceptable identification document that you can use for the CELPIP-General Test include:

  • Passport Booklet
  • Refugee Travel Document

If the identity document you bring with you on test day does not fulfil the preset conditions, you will be denied the test and will not be able to transfer or receive a refund.

When will the CELPIP Test be available in different areas in India?

The CELPIP Test will be made available very soon in different areas in India. At the moment, the CELPIP test centres are currently available in Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, New Delhi, Chennai, and Hyderabad, but Paragon is planning to add more test locations in India in the near future. 

Who accepts the CELPIP exam?

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accept the CELPIP Tests for a variety of permanent residency and immigration streams, as well as professional certification for a number of organizations. The CELPIP Tests demonstrate English language competency for immigration and professional designation reasons.

What is the late arrival policy for the CELPIP exam?

The late arrival policy for the CELPIP exam holds that you must arrive 45 minutes before your exam. Latecomers will be denied entry and will not be entitled to a refund or transfer. Your test check-in closes 15 minutes before the planned start time. You will be denied entry to the CELPIP Test if you come after this time and will not be eligible for a refund or transfer.

Can I retake the CELPIP exam?

Yes, you can retake the CELPIP exam. You may only register for one Test Session every four (4) calendar days. Paragon has the right to revoke test session registrations that violate this regulation. The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program Office suggests that you study further before retaking the test.

How and when do I get my CELPIP scores?

Within 4-5 calendar days after your test date, you can get your CELPIP scores online using your CELPIP Account. Please keep in mind that weekends and holidays are not considered business days. When your scores are ready, you will be notified by email. Once your scores have been uploaded, you will be able to obtain your CELPIP Official Score Report as a PDF. 

What are the various unacceptable identification documents that you can not use for the CELPIP exam?

The various unacceptable identification documents that are not allowed for the CELPIP exam include any photocopy of a document; Social Security card; Social Insurance card; Canadian health card; Temporary identification; Employee identification card; Student identification card; US Border Crossing Card; US Permanent Resident Card; Notary-prepared letter or document; Credit card of any type; Firearms License; NEXUS Card; Work Permit; Record of Landing and Interim Federal Health Certificate of Eligibility

Can I change my CELPIP test session?

Yes, you can change your CELPIP Test Session in your CELPIP Account to another Test Session. If your transfer request is submitted by Paragon at least nine calendar days before the Test Session date and Paragon grants your transfer request, you must pay a transfer fee of CAD 50 plus applicable taxes. If Paragon receives your transfer request fewer than nine calendar days before the Test Session date, please contact Paragon's customer care.

Can I cancel my CELPIP test date?

Yes, you can cancel your CELPIP test dates. If Paragon receives your cancellation request at least nine calendar days before the date of the Test Session, Paragon will grant your cancellation request and return you 50% of the amount you paid for the Test Session registration. If your cancellation request is received by Paragon less than 9 days before the date of the Test Session, Paragon will honour your cancellation request and you will not be refunded for the registration cost.

How can I prepare for my CELPIP exam?

You can prepare for your CELPIP exam via the free online study material available for test takers. You can take free sample exams available through CELPIP's online portal to prepare for the exam. Alternatively, Paragon offers all prospective test-takers the opportunity to take a sample test in a real testing environment. Among other things, Paragon creates a wide range of study materials for each part of the test and offers CELPIP Speaking sessions online.

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