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If you’ve been working toward Canadian immigration, permanent residency, or professional certification, chances are you’ve come across the CELPIP exam. The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is one of the most accessible English proficiency tests available in Canada. Successfully taking this test can lead to many opportunities for new Canadians, including permanent residency, citizenship, and professional designations.
Before that, we know how nerve-wracking walking into a testing centre can be. To help you prepare better, we’ve created this guide to assist you through the entire CELPIP experience. From CELPIP test preparation to check-in requirements and CELPIP exam structure, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding the CELPIP Test
CELPIP is a general English proficiency exam for people seeking citizenship and professional designations in Canada. It evaluates the test taker’s English across four components—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—and has two exam types:
- CELPIP General Test: Evaluates all four skills; accepted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IIRC) for permanent residence applications; three-hour test sitting
- CELPIP General LS Test: Only evaluates listening and speaking skills; IRCC approved for citizenship applications; one-hour test sitting
The CELPIP exam cost for the general test is $290 and $195 for the CELPIP General LS test.
Unlike other language proficiency tests, CELPIP is entirely computer-delivered and done in one sitting. This test type format offers the convenience of finishing all sections without needing separate appointments. You’ll do all the writing, listening, speaking, and reading tests in one go!
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Before CELPIP Test Day: Registration and Preparation
Whether this is your first standardized English test or you’ve previously taken similar exams, it helps to know exactly what you’re walking into so you can focus on doing your best. Here’s everything you need to know about CELPIP test day at ILAC.
Registering for the CELPIP Exam
Before taking the exam, register online through the CELPIP official website. Spots fill quickly, so choose your preferred time and date at ILAC Toronto or Vancouver locations as soon as possible.
Note: the CELPIP Office at Paragon Testing Enterprises handles all CELPIP registration. You can’t register in person at ILAC or any other test centre.
Getting Ready
Prepare before test day! Focus heavily on your reading, writing, and speaking skills. Get comfortable with daily conversation, listening and speaking to people in public. The CELPIP site offers free resources, such as webinars, sample questions, and downloadable guides to help test takers.
The program is offered for a minimum of six weeks in-person, or more as needed, with a special free test promo if you book eight or 12 weeks, and there’s a four-week online CELPIP Boot Camp to prepare you for exam day. Familiarize yourself with the CELPIP format and receive professional guidance.
CELPIP Test Day: What to Expect
On the test day itself, bring the following:
- Valid Photo ID: Use the same ID you registered with (e.g., passport, PR card). No photocopies or expired documents.
- Confirmation Email: Bring a printout or have it ready on your phone.
- Minimal Personal Belongings: Only your ID is allowed in the room. Leave valuables at home.
Arriving and Checking In
Arrive at least 45 minutes early. If you’re 15 minutes late, you won’t be allowed to take the test—and there are no refunds! Here’s what happens once you arrive:
- Staff will check your ID and take your photo.
- You’ll store personal items in a secure locker, so don’t bring too much with you. Cell phones and large personal items are prohibited in the test room.
- You may be asked to roll up your sleeves or turn out your pockets for security.
- Use the bathroom beforehand, as the test is timed, and it won’t be paused if you leave to use the facilities!
Once inside the exam room, you’ll be guided to a computer station. Headphones and notepaper are provided. You won’t be allowed to leave your seat until the exam ends.
During the CELPIP Test
The CELPIP exam time is approximately three hours, divided into the following categories. All four sections are completed in a single sitting:
| Test | Coverage | Length |
| Listening Test | Tests listening skills by answering audio questions; includes one practice task and six parts on listening to the following:
|
47 to 55 minutes |
| Reading Test | Involves reading passages and answering questions;
Has one practice task and four parts on reading the following:
|
55 to 60 minutes |
| Writing Test | Includes two writing tasks that assess writing skills:
|
53 to 60 minutes |
| Speaking Test | Verbal test evaluating the test taker’s English speaking skills with on-screen prompts; has one practice task and eight tasks:
|
15 to 20 minutes |
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After the CELPIP Test
After the exam, your score report will be available online within three to four business days. However, due to the high volume of test takers, it could take up to 10 days. You’ll receive an email once they’re ready for viewing on your CELPIP account.
For an additional fee, you can have your entire test or sections re-evaluated within 60 days. You can retake CELPIP after a minimum of four calendar days.
CELPIP grades you from Levels 0 to 12 in ascending order. It does not have a universal “pass” mark. Your target level depends on your immigration or professional goal. For example, many Canadian PR programs require a CELPIP of CLB 7 or higher.
Prepare for CELPIP Test Day at ILAC
ILAC is an official CELPIP test centre that welcomes thousands of test-takers each year. We offer a modern, comfortable test environment with helpful staff, convenient locations, and optional CELPIP prep courses designed to boost your confidence before exam day.
Make your test experience smooth and stress-free with ILAC’s CELPIP Preparation Course and CELPIP Boot Camp. With our expert guidance, you’ll master proven strategies, enhance your English language skills, and approach the exam with confidence.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to learn how we can help you prepare for CELPIP test day!
