CELPIP vs IELTS: Which English language test is right for you?

CELPIP is the English proficiency test designed for individuals who want to migrate to Canada while IELTS is the English language test conducted for individuals who want to study, work, or migrate to Canada, USA, UK, Australia, etc. The full form of CELPIP is the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program, and the full form of IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. CELPIP is taken by individuals who want permanent residence or Canadian citizenship while individuals take IELTS to study in universities, get student visas, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. Both CELPIP and IELTS tests are accepted by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). While both tests evaluate English language skills such as listening, reading, writing, and speaking, they differ significantly in their formats, structures, and scoring systems. In this article, you’ll get to know the differences between CELPIP vs IELTS by understanding their test pattern, sections, score, duration, etc.

What are the differences between IELTS and CELPIP?

The main difference between CELPIP and IELTS is that CELPIP focuses on North American Language, especially in the listening and reading sections. In contrast, IELTS focuses on various accents specifically in the listening sections. Check the below table to know the differences in detail.

Difference between IELTS and CELPIP
Factors	IELTS	CELPIP
Purpose	IELTS is the English language proficiency test taken for academic, immigration, and employment purposes across the world.	CELPIP is specifically for Canadian English language proficiency assessment taken for immigration, citizenship, and professional designation in Canada.
Accepted By	More than 11,500 organizations accept the IELTS test in over 140 countries.	The CELPIP Tests are accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as well as by a number of organizations.
Test Content	IELTS is a general assessment of English language skills applicable across various English-speaking countries with a range of accents.	CELPIP focuses on Canadian accents, as well as vocabulary and expressions commonly used in daily life and workplaces in Canada.
Types	There are two types of IELTS tests: IELTS Academic and IELTS General.	There are two versions of the CELPIP test: CELPIP General and CELPIP General LS
Test Mode	IELTS can be taken either on paper or on a computer at a test center, including a face-to-face Speaking section. In some locations, it can also be taken online with the Speaking section conducted via a video call with an Examiner.	CELPIP is entirely computer-based, and its speaking section is conducted virtually.
Sections	Four skills such as Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking	Four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
Duration	2 hours 45 minutes; results for the paper-based test will be available after 13 days.	3 hours; results will be available in 3-4 business days after your test date.
Score	Each of the bands is marked on a scale of 1 to 9; the overall score is marked on a scale of 1 to 9 as well	1 to 12 for each of the 4 sections. Follows the Canadian Language Benchmarks [CLB] level
Fees	Rs.17,000 for both pen and paper-based and computer-delivered tests.	CELPIP - General Test ₹12500.00 + Taxes (where applicable)
Test Centre	There are 78 test centres in India	Currently offering the CELPIP Test in Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, New Delhi, Chennai, and Hyderabad.

What is IELTS?

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the English language proficiency test that assesses a test taker's proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The test is developed by IDP Education in partnership with Cambridge Assessment English and the British Council. The IELTS test is trusted by over 12,000 organizations globally, including governments, universities, and employers in over 140 countries. With more than 4 million test takers annually, IELTS is the preferred choice for those aspiring to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries such as Australia, Canada, USA, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. IELTS has set the standard for English language assessment worldwide for over 30 years which helps individuals to achieve their professional, personal, and academic aspirations.

What is CELPIP?

The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is a general English language proficiency taken for immigration purposes and professional designation. It evaluates the ability of the test takers to function in English by measuring their listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. Individuals who want permanent residency and citizenship in Canada can take this test. It assesses the language proficiency of individuals in everyday scenarios, including workplace communication, social interactions, understanding newscasts, and interpreting and responding to written materials. CELPIP is recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency and immigration and by organizations for professional certifications.

Test pattern of the CELPIP vs IELTS

The IELTS test is conducted for individuals aspiring to study in English-speaking environments, work, or immigrate to English-speaking countries. The IELTS test has two formats: Academic and General Training. The IELTS Academic test is for those aiming to study at universities, get a student visa, or prove English proficiency at professional organizations. The IELTS General Training test is to assess practical English skills for work and migration purposes. Both tests assess the listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections and are available in pen and paper-based formats or on a computer last for around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

The CELPIP is a computer-based test that has two types: the CELPIP General Test and the CELPIP General LS Test. The CELPIP General Test assesses speaking, reading, listening, and writing skills, suitable for permanent residence applications and professional designations. On the other hand, the CELPIP General LS test evaluates speaking and listening skills, used for citizenship applications and professional designation. Both tests can be completed in a single sitting with no separate speaking session, with the General Test lasting approximately 3 hours and the General LS Test about 1 hour.

What are the sections of CELPIP and IELTS tests?

Both the CELPIP and IELTS exams test reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. CELPIP focuses on Canadian English, while IELTS is based on British English, yet both accept American and British English spelling and grammar. Here's a comparison of each skill section:

Listening

CELPIP has a six-part listening section with 38 questions, and a range of English language recordings including daily conversations, problem-solving, and news items. The duration of this test is 47-55 minutes.

IELTS has four recordings with ten questions each, totaling 40 questions, covering similar topics as CELPIP. The duration of the IELTS listening test is 30 minutes with 10 minutes for transferring.

Reading

CELPIP's reading section has four parts with about ten questions per part, involving tasks like analyzing diagrams and personal correspondence. The duration of this test is 55-60 minutes.

IELTS includes three passages on 'social survival,' 'workplace survival,' and 'general reading,' which includes newspapers, magazines, and fictional and non-fictional book extracts. This test has 11 different question types such as multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, short answer questions, map, diagram labeling, etc. The duration of this test is 60 minutes.

Writing

CELPIP requires writing an email and responding to survey questions whereas IELTS involves writing two essays: a letter and a personal essay on a point of view, argument, or problem. The duration of the CELPIP writing test is 53 - 60 minutes whereas IELTS writing lasts for 60 minutes.

Speaking

CELPIP has eight tasks, such as giving advice, talking about personal experience, describing scenes, making predictions, comparing and persuading, dealing with a difficult situation, expressing opinions, and describing an unusual situation. The duration of this test is 15 - 20 minutes.

IELTS includes a three-part speaking assessment starting with general questions, followed by topic discussion based on the given task card, and questions related to the topic. The duration of this test is 11 - 14 minutes.

Overall, while both CELPIP and IELTS exams cover similar skills, they differ in the pattern, and types of tasks within each section.

Test Score of CELPIP vs IELTS

Each section of the CELPIP – General Test and the CELPIP – General LS Test is assigned a CELPIP level, which corresponds to the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels. The following is the table that shows the score of the CELPIP test.

Test Level Descriptor	CELPIP Level	CLB Level
Advanced proficiency in workplace and community contexts	12	12
Advanced proficiency in workplace and community contexts	11	11
Highly effective proficiency in workplace and community contexts	10	10
Effective proficiency in workplace and community contexts	9	9
Good proficiency in workplace and community contexts	8	8
Adequate proficiency in workplace and community contexts	7	7
Developing proficiency in workplace and community contexts	6	6
Acquiring proficiency in workplace and community contexts	5	5
Adequate proficiency for daily life activities	4	4
Some proficiency in limited contexts	3	3
Limited ability in contexts related to immediate needs	2	1,2
Insufficient information to assess	1	/
Insufficient information to assess	0	/
Not Administered: test taker did not receive this test component	NA	/

Each section of the IELTS exam, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, carries equal weightage and is scored on a scale from 0 to 9, with increments of 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75. The overall band score is calculated by averaging the scores from all four sections, rounded to the nearest whole or half band. Scores ending in .25 are rounded up to the next half band, while scores ending in .75 are rounded up to the next whole band.

Here's a breakdown of what each band score signifies in terms of a student's English proficiency level.

Band score	Skill level	Description
Band 9	Expert user	You have a full operational command of the language. Your use of English is appropriate, accurate and fluent, and you show complete understanding.
Band 8	Very good user	You have a fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriate usage. You may misunderstand some things in unfamiliar situations. You handle complex detailed argumentation well.
Band 7	Good user	You have an operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally you handle complex language well and understand detailed reasoning.
Band 6	Competent user	Generally you have an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriate usage and misunderstandings. You can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.
Band 5	Modest user	You have a partial command of the language, and cope with overall meaning in most situations, although you are likely to make many mistakes. You should be able to handle basic communication in your own field.
Band 4	Limited user	Your basic competence is limited to familiar situations. You frequently show problems in understanding and expression. You are not able to use complex language.
Band 3	Extremely limited user	You convey and understand only general meaning in very familiar situations. There are frequent breakdowns in communication.
Band 2	Intermittent user	You have great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.
Band 1	Non-user	You have no ability to use the language except a few isolated words.
Band 0	Did not attempt the test	You did not answer the questions.

How to prepare for CELPIP or IELTS exam?

Preparation of CELPIP Test:

Here are steps to prepare for the CELPIP test:

• Allocate Time: Dedicate at least 30 minutes each day to CELPIP preparation. Even a short daily session can significantly boost your readiness for the test.
• Varied Practice: Don't limit yourself to practice tests alone. Incorporate diverse exercises to enhance your skills:

           Reading: Engage with English content daily, such as news articles, websites, or magazines on topics that interest you.
          Writing: Write regularly, whether it's in a journal, blog, or emails to acquaintances. This helps in honing your writing abilities.
           Speaking: Expand your vocabulary and practice speaking by noting down new words and phrases, and using them in conversations.
          Listening: Listen to podcasts, news broadcasts, or audiobooks in English regularly to improve your listening comprehension.

• Utilize Resources:

          Practice Tests: Take advantage of free and paid practice tests to assess your current level and identify areas for improvement.
           Free Webinars: Attend CELPIP webinars hosted by experts to gain valuable insights and tips for each test component.
      Study Materials: Explore study materials like CELPIP Accelerate, which offers structured exercises and strategies to enhance your skills.

Preparation of IELTS Test:

Here are steps to prepare effectively for the IELTS test:

• Take a Practice Test: Start with a practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This helps focus your preparation.
• Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the test format and question types for each section. Knowing what to expect is crucial for success.
• Be Time Conscious: Practice under timed conditions to get accustomed to the test pace. Managing time well is key to completing the exam.
• Develop English Skills: Improve your overall English proficiency alongside IELTS practice. This includes listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
• Practice Listening Skills: Focus on understanding conversations and answering related questions. Use techniques like 'shadowing' to improve pronunciation.
• Enhance Reading Skills: Practice various reading tasks like skimming, understanding main ideas, and recognizing opinions.
• Work on Writing Tasks: Practice writing essays in a formal style, structuring your ideas clearly, and using appropriate language.
• Practice Speaking Fluently: Work on speaking fluently, maintaining coherence, and responding confidently even when unsure.
• Immerse Yourself in English: Read, write, listen, and speak in English as much as possible outside of test preparation to boost your language skills.

CELPIP or IELTS: Which one to choose?

CELPIP is the ideal test if you want permanent residency, citizenship, or professional designation in Canada. On the other hand, if you're applying for a study or work visa, IELTS is more suitable. CELPIP has longer speaking and listening sections compared to IELTS, making it favorable for those proficient in these areas. However, if you find everyday situations challenging or prefer a more standardized test, IELTS may be a better fit. Ultimately, your choice between CELPIP and IELTS depends on your destination and its language requirements. Factors like format, length, structure, and scoring system also play a role in your decision. 

FAQs on CELPIP and IELTS exams

1. CELPIP or IELTS: Which is better?

Both CELPIP and IELTS serve as recognized assessments of English proficiency, accepted for Canada visa applications. However, for a proficiency test with broader global recognition and trust, IELTS may be the preferred option.

2. CELPIP or IELTS: Which is easier?

If you're familiar to Canadian accents and Canadian vocabulary, CELPIP might feel more natural and easier for you. On the other hand, if you're more comfortable speaking English in person, IELTS could be a better fit.

3. Is CELPIP harder than IELTS? 

There’s no proof that CELPIP is harder than IELTS or vice-versa. However, it depends on the test-taker. Some people may feel CELPIP is harder because it happens in one day. While others may feel IELTS is easier and safer because it’s much more popular and a very old exam. 

4. What is a good CELPIP score? 

Any score in the range of 8 and 12, as per the CELPIP levels, is a good score. Please check the table given above for the test descriptors. 

5. Is CLB easier than IELTS? 

Both CLB and IELTS are challenging in their own ways. 

6. How difficult is CELPIP? 

CELPIP could be difficult for some test-takers. This is primarily because CELPIP is focused only on Canadian English and also the exam happens in just one day. Moreover, there are only 3 test centres in India for CELPIP. 

7. Can I take the CELPIP exam at home? 

No, you must take the CELPIP exam at one of the test centres in India.

8. How many times can I apply for the CELPIP exam? 

The time gap between each test should be 30 days. 

9. Is CELPIP computer based? 

Yes, CELPIP is a complete computer-based test.

10. Can you retake the CELPIP test? 

Yes, you can retake CELPIP.

11. What is the minimum CELPIP score required for Canadian citizenship? 

For express entry, the minimum score needed is 7 points in each category of the exam. However, the score changes with what you need. 

12. How can I prepare for the IELTS at home? 

Kanan International offers online IELTS classes for test-takers all over the country. You can sign up for a demo session and see where you stand. 

13. Is 7.5 a good IELTS score? 

Yes, 7.5 in IELTS is a good score. It denotes that the test-taker has the basic operational command over the English language. 

14. Can I prepare for the IELTS in 15 days? 

Yes, you can. At Kanan International, we have trained many students within 15 days for IELTS, and helped them excel in the exam with a good score. 

15. Can we go to Canada without IELTS? 

It’s difficult. IELTS is a popular exam and the most widely accepted one in Canada for admissions for international students. Also, CELPIP is yet another exam which is considered to be an alternative to IELTS. 

16. What is a good IELTS score? 

A good IELTS score is somewhere between 6 and 8. Anything above 8 is extraordinary. 

17. Is 1 month enough for IELTS preparation? 

Yes, more than enough. 

18. Which is the easiest module in IELTS? 

Some people consider reading to be the easiest module while some consider speaking. 

19. Can I prepare for the IELTS in 10 days? 

Although it sounds like a daunting task, it’s possible to prepare for IELTS within 10 days.

20. Which training centre is best for the IELTS exam? 

Centres like Kanan International and British Council are both good for IELTS classes.