Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program
What is CELPIP?
- An assessment that measures English language proficiency for immigration purposes and
professional designations - Developed in 1999 by researchers at University of British Columbia (UBC).
- Purchased in 2009 by Paragon Testing Enterprises – a subsidiary of UBC
- CELPIP is one of two English proficiency tests approved by IRCC
There are (2) distinct CELPIP tests...
What is CELPIP-General?
CELPIP- General
- Used as proof of English language proficiency when applying for permanent resident status
under Federal Skilled Worker, Skilled Trades, Canadian Experience Class, Start-up Visa Program,
or for employment - Tests all four skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing
What is CELPIP-General LS?
CELPIP- General LS
- Used as proof of English language proficiency when applying for Canadian citizenship
- Can only be taken in Canada
- Test only two skills: Listening and Speaking
CELPIP General-LS: Listening Component
- Listening component is allotted 47-55 minutes
- Consists of 6 parts/tasks
- Test takers have to listen to each part and answer questions
Scoring System
9 Levels of Scoring System
CELPIP Levels Ranfing from M,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10-12
| CELPIP LEVEL | CELPIP DESCRIPTION | CLB LEVEL |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | Advanced Proficiency | 12 |
| 11 | “ | 11 |
| 10 | Highly Effective | 10 |
| 9 | Effective Proficiency | 9 |
| 8 | Good Proficiency | 8 |
| 7 | Adequate” | 7 |
| 6 | Developing Proficiency | 6 |
| 5 | Acquiring Proficiency | 5 |
| 4 | Adequate Proficiency | 4 |
| 3 | Some Proficiency in Limited Context | 3 |
| M | Minimal | |
| NA | Not Administered |
SPEAKING: Reply to on screen prompts verbally
Four categories of speaking test with a number of factors:
Category Oner
content/coherence:
Category Two
Vocabulary
Category Three
Listenability
Category Four
Task fulfilment
Features of CELPIP General- LS
● 100% Canadian focused
○ Ideal for learners who can’t attend LINC/ESL program
● 100% computer delivered
● Test done in (1) sitting
○ Approximately 1 hour 10 min
● Authentic and reflects daily-living
○ Ex.Responding to emails, interacting with friends, taking the bus
● Single North American accent
● Only CELPIP and IELTS are approved by IRCC for immigration purposes
CELPIP General LS vs IELTS
| Taking the CELPIP General | IELTS General | CELPIP General- LS |
|---|---|---|
| 100% computer based | Y | Y |
| Single North American Accent | N | Y |
| Skills tested in 1 sitting | N | Y |
● Go to: www.celpip.ca
● Provide proof of identity, payment information
● Select test:
○ CELPIP- General (PR)
○ CELPIP- General LS
● Choose country, region, city, date and time
○ All provinces
How to get results
● Test takers can access their CELPIP Test scores. online through their CELPIP Account in 4-5 calendar days after their test date.
● Test takers will receive an email notification once scores are available.
● Regular Rating is included in test fees.
● Test takers can choose to add Express Rating ($100 fee) so that scores are available online in (3) business days.
● The first two CELPIP Official Score Reports are included in test registration fee.
● Print copies of CELPIP Official Score Report are sent to registered address via Canada Post’s standard delivery service.
● Estimated delivery time for print copies of score reports is 4-10 business days after scores are made available online.
● CELPIP Test scores can be accessed and viewed online in your account for a period of 2 years from your test date.