What is the difference between IELTS and CELPIP? Is one better at evaluating your English language proficiency? Is one easier than the other? This article will delve into the CELPIP vs. IELTS debate. 

We will explore these questions to provide you with a definitive guide to the differences between CELPIP and IELTS. 

Is CELPIP easier than IELTS? 

Let’s face it: this is one of the most frequently asked questions. The truth is, if you study and prepare thoroughly for either of these English language proficiency tests, you are likely to succeed. Remember the three Ps – prepare, practice, and persevere! 

If you are planning to take the IELTS or CELPIP, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the structure of each exam to ensure success on the big day. Let’s dive into the details of each test.  

What is the difference between CELPIP and IELTS? 

IELTS test format 

IELTS assesses your English proficiency in all four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. 

Being an internationally recognized test, it includes a variety of accents in the Listening section. However, the recordings are carefully designed to be clear and avoid slang, unfamiliar vocabulary, or confusing expressions.  

CELPIP test format 

Like IELTS, the CELPIP test assesses all four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking.  

When comparing CELPIP vs. IELTS, it’s important to note that CELPIP emphasizes North American English, while IELTS features international accents, but it is important to clarify that this is not a problem when taking the exam. 

IELTS test versions  

There are two versions of IELTS. 

When considering CELPIP vs. IELTS, remember that IELTS offers two versions, each catering to different needs. 

In the CELPIP vs. IELTS comparison, only IELTS Academic is accepted by Canadian universities for academic purposes. 

Academic – IELTS Academic is for those who want to study at a university or college or join a professional association where English is a prerequisite. 

Each organisation sets its own entry requirements, and some may even accept both versions of IELTS. If you are not sure of which version you should take, it is advised to check with your organisation to see what version of IELTS they accept. 

General Training – The IELTS General Training test is typically taken by those who wish to move to Canada and is accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s numerous immigration programs, such as Express Entry. 

Find out more about the different IELTS test versions. 

CELPIP test versions 

There are two types of CELPIP tests. 

CELPIP General test – The CELPIP General test is used for permanent residency applications. 

CELPIP Listening & Speaking – This version is used for Canadian citizenship applications. 

IELTS test delivery 

When comparing CELPIP vs. IELTS delivery methods, IELTS provides both paper-based and computer-based options, catering to diverse preferences. 

The test content is exactly the same for both formats, and the speaking test is always conducted face-to-face with an examiner. These options make IELTS a versatile choice for assessing your English language proficiency, especially when considering CELPIP vs. IELTS. 

CELPIP test delivery 

The CELPIP test is entirely a computer-based test. All sections of the test are delivered at a test centre.  

The main difference is that the speaking test is not done with an examiner. The speaking test is done on a computer with your responses to questions recorded. 

CELPIP vs IELTS Score 

What IELTS score is required for PR? 

Once you have taken the IELTS General Training test, you can use the results of your test as proof of English language proficiency for Canada’s many immigration pathway programs. The Government of Canada assesses this through Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLBs). 

IELTS is linked to these Canadian Language Benchmarks. Find out more about this on the CLB to IELTS page. 

For more information on Canada’s language requirements, visit the Government of Canada’s Language equivalency charts. 

What CELPIP score is required for PR? 

Just like IELTS, the CELPIP test is also accepted for Canada’s immigration programs through the Canadian language benchmarks. To find out more about this, visit the Government of Canada’s Language equivalency charts. 

What is a good score for the IELTS? 

This is always a common question and one that is quite difficult to answer! A good score will depend on what your goals are. 

Do you want to take IELTS to assess your English language proficiency for permanent residency? If so, the higher score, the better as this can get you more points for the Express Entry system. 

If you need to take the IELTS for academic purposes, then each educational institution sets a particular requirement, so it is best to check what score you will need. 

What is a good score for the CELPIP test? 

Just like the IELTS test, there is not a specific score which can be classified as “good”. It will depend on what your immigration objectives are. 

When you consider CELPIP vs. IELTS, it is important to note that the CELPIP test can’t be used for academic purposes. 

How is the IELTS test score calculated? 

IELTS uses band scores to assess your English language proficiency. Find out more about band scores. Your listening test and reading test scores will be determined by the number of correct answers you get. 

Your writing test and speaking test scores are assessed by a trained examiner based on various criteria. IELTS continually works on test development so that it remains an accurate way to determine your English language proficiency. 

For paper-based tests, your results will be available 13 calendar days after your test date. 

For computer-based tests, your results will be available 3 to 5 days after your test date. 

How is the CELPIP test score calculated? 

For the CELPIP test, your listening and reading test scores are determined by the number of correct answers that you get. For the listening and speaking test, a rater will determine your level. 

Your results are available 4 – 5 days after your test date. 

So, which is better IELTS or CELPIP? 

When deciding between CELPIP vs. IELTS, both tests can be used for immigration purposes, but there are some additional advantages to IELTS. 

The academic version can be used to show English language proficiency required by Canadian universities for acceptance into their programs and courses. 

Not only is IELTS highly recognized in Canada (by over 800 organisations), but IELTS is the world’s most recognised English language proficiency test. Over 11,000 organisations worldwide accept and trust IELTS. 

Do you need to prepare for IELTS? Visit our IELTS preparation page. 

Are you ready to take IELTS? Find IELTS test dates at a location near you! 

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