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Preparing for the CELPIP Writing Test means understanding the format, practicing with real examples, and strengthening grammar and vocabulary. This guide offers practical tips, writing structures, and expert strategies to help you approach the test with clarity and confidence.
Whether you’re aiming for permanent residency or boosting your CLB level, the writing section in the CELPIP test can be one of the trickiest parts. But with the right approach, a little practice, and the right CELPIP preparation course, you can build the skills needed to write confidently and on topic.
What Is the CELPIP Writing Test?
The CELPIP Writing Test is part of the CELPIP General exam and is designed to assess your ability to communicate clearly in written English. Both tasks are completed on a computer and are timed. You’ll have a total of 53 to 60 minutes to complete the writing section.
CELPIP Writing Test Format
The CELPIP Writing test consists of two tasks: one where you write an email, and another where you answer a question and provide supporting details.
| Task | Description | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Task 1 | Write an email based on a given situation | 27 minutes |
| Task 2 | Respond to a survey question with supporting reasons | 26 minutes |
Learn more: What Is CELPIP?
CELPIP Writing Task 1: Email Writing Task
In Task 1, you’ll be asked to write an email in response to a prompt. This might include:
- Making a request
- Making a complaint
- Giving information
- Explaining a situation
CELPIP Email Writing Example (with Answer)
Looking at CELPIP writing test samples with answers like the one below can help you understand the tone, structure, and detail examiners expect. Let’s check them out:
Prompt:
You recently attended a community event that didn’t meet your expectations. Write an email to the event organizer.
Your email should:
- Explain why you attended
- Describe what disappointed you
- Suggest how the event could be improved
Sample Test Response:
To: Event Organizer
Subject: Feedback on the Recent Community Festival
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to share my feedback regarding the Community Festival held last Saturday at Elm Park. I attended the event hoping to enjoy local food vendors, live music, and family-friendly games, as advertised in your flyer.
Unfortunately, I was disappointed by several aspects. First, many of the food stalls were either closed or ran out of food early. Second, the music stage was inactive for most of the afternoon due to sound issues. Finally, there were no activities available for children as promised.
For future events, I recommend confirming food vendor participation in advance and conducting technical checks for live performances. Including a clear schedule and ensuring children’s activities are staffed would also improve the overall experience.
Thank you for organizing the event. I hope this feedback is helpful for planning in the future.
Sincerely,
Laura Peters
Source: Canva
CELPIP Writing Task 2: Survey Response
In Task 2, you’ll be asked to choose between two options and explain your choice. This is similar to writing an opinion essay and should follow a logical structure. This task is where CELPIP writing examples especially come in handy. Studying how others support their opinions helps you build stronger, more focused responses.
CELPIP Survey Writing Sample Answer
Prompt:
Your city is deciding between two new public projects. Which do you prefer?
- A new community library
- A new sports complex
Sample Test Response:
I believe the city should invest in building a new community library. While sports facilities are beneficial, a library provides broader educational and social advantages.
First, libraries promote literacy and lifelong learning for people of all ages. From children discovering books to seniors attending workshops, the library supports community growth.
Second, libraries provide free access to resources like computers, Wi-Fi, and job search tools, especially important for low-income residents.
Finally, a library is a quiet, inclusive space where people can study, attend community events, or simply relax.
For these reasons, I support the creation of a new community library in our city.
How Is the CELPIP Test Scored?
The CELPIP Writing Test is scored using four key criteria: content/coherence, vocabulary, readability, and grammar and mechanics. To achieve a high score, you need strong performance across all aspects, not just one or two.
| Scoring Criteria | What Examiners Evaluate |
|---|---|
| Content/Coherence | Number and quality of ideas, organization, and examples |
| Vocabulary | Word choice, range, precision, and appropriate use |
| Readability | Format, paragraphing, connectors, and transitions |
| Grammar and Mechanics | Sentence structure, grammar, spelling, punctuation |
Each response is scored on a scale aligned with the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB). Most immigration pathways require a CLB 7 or higher, which typically means writing responses that are clear, relevant, and well-organized.
Studying CELPIP’s score descriptors can tell you what examiners expect at each level, helping you narrow your efforts.
Image Source: Canva
CELPIP Writing Tips and Tricks
Use these CELPIP writing tips to streamline your studying towards the CELPIP score you’re aiming for.
Follow the Structure
Practicing with CELPIP general writing samples will help you become familiar with common prompts and improve how you organize your thoughts under time pressure. Follow these guides for the CELPIP writing section:
- Email Structure:
- Greeting: Greet the person you’re writing to.
- Introduction: Introduce yourself, the situation, and your point.
- Main Body (2 to 3 paragraphs): Explain your reasoning directly using alternating short and long sentences.
- Closing & Signature: End with a concluding sentence, thanking the reader for their time.
- Survey Structure:
- Introduction: State your choice
- Body Paragraph 1: Explain your first reason, making sure it’s logical.
- Body Paragraph 2: Transition to your second reason, ensuring they’re connected and explained logically.
- Optional: Mention a third reason or counterpoint, if any.
- Conclusion: Conclude your answer with a quick summary.
Use Clear and Varied Vocabulary
Avoid repeating the same words. For example, instead of using “good” multiple times, use alternatives like “beneficial,” “valuable,” or “effective.” Show that you can express yourself in different ways.
Stay On Topic
Every sentence should support your main idea. Don’t go off track or include irrelevant details. Make sure your examples connect back to your point.
Use Transitions
Link your ideas with transition words like:
- Firstly
- In addition
- However
- As a result
- In conclusion
This creates flow and shows logical progression.
Watch Your Time
Don’t spend too long on one task. Aim to spend no more than 27 minutes on Task 1 and 26 minutes on Task 2. Use the last few minutes to proofread and check spelling errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use templates for CELPIP writing?
Using a basic structure is helpful, but avoid memorized templates. Examiners look for natural, original writing.
What CLB level do I need for Canadian citizenship?
To apply for Canadian citizenship, you typically need to meet Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 4 or higher in speaking and listening. You can find detailed eligibility info on the Government of Canada’s official site.
Can I practice CELPIP writing online?
Yes, and ILAC’s CELPIP prep course includes writing practice with instructor feedback.
Are there any other versions of the CELPIP test?
Yes! If you only need to prove your listening and speaking skills, like for Canadian citizenship, you can take the CELPIP General LS test. It’s shorter than the full CELPIP General test, which also includes reading and writing. You can learn more about the differences in this quick guide.
In a Nutshell
- The CELPIP Writing Test has two tasks: email and survey response.
- Responses are scored on content, organization, grammar, and vocabulary
- Use structure, transitions, and varied vocabulary for a higher score
- Practice with real samples and get expert support from ILAC
- Time management and proofreading are essential for success
- Review real CELPIP writing samples and use them as models to guide your own practice. The more CELPIP writing test samples with answers you review, the more confident you’ll feel on test day.
Prepare for the CELPIP Writing Test with ILAC
If you’re serious about improving your writing score, a CELPIP preparation course can make a big difference. ILAC’s CELPIP Preparation Course offers expert instruction, guided practice, and personalized feedback to help you write confidently and clearly.
You’ll get support with:
- Effective CELPIP writing examples
- Writing emails and survey responses
- Understanding scoring criteria
- Practicing with real test samples
- Time management strategies
Whether you’re applying for permanent residency or another immigration stream, our course helps you feel ready on test day.
Ready to prepare for your CELPIP exam? Contact us and we’ll help you get started with the right CELPIP prep resources.
