Start free

CELPIP Tips: 20 Ways to Score Higher in Every Section

By Natania · Study tips · Published · 3 min read

Most CELPIP tips are either too general ("practise more") or too specific to one task. These twenty are the ones that move scores across the whole test: five for how you prepare, three for each section, and three for test day. Each one links to a longer post if you want the detail.

Preparation tips

  1. Find out the CLB your program needs in each skill before you study anything, and check it on the official IRCC page.
  2. Take a timed diagnostic or practice test first, so you know your gap rather than guessing.
  3. Give about half your study time to the section with the biggest gap.
  4. Keep an error log: the task, what went wrong and the fix. Work on the three mistakes that appear most often.
  5. Practise with the real timers from week one.

Listening tips

  1. Take short notes on who, what, when and why. Never write full sentences while the audio plays.
  2. Listen for changes of mind ("actually", "but then"): the final decision is usually what is tested.
  3. Be suspicious of options that repeat the exact words you heard. The right answer often says the same idea differently.

Reading tips

  1. Each part has its own timer and unused time does not carry over, so budget each part separately.
  2. Answer every question: a wrong answer costs nothing, a blank is a lost chance.
  3. Before you choose an option, check every condition in it (who, when, how much) against the text.

Writing tips

  1. Plan for about three minutes: one paragraph per email point, and tick each point when it is written.
  2. In the survey task, state your choice in the first sentence and support it with two developed reasons.
  3. Keep about three minutes to check spelling and missing words, since there is no spell checker.

Speaking tips

  1. Use the preparation time to note two or three points, a few words each, not sentences.
  2. Answer the question in your first sentence, then add an example to each point until the timer ends.
  3. Speak at a steady pace. Clear and easy to follow beats fast and full of errors.

Test day tips

  1. Do not take a full practice test the day before. Review your error log and task structures, then rest.
  2. Arrive early with the ID you registered with, and check the official CELPIP website for what you may bring.
  3. If one task goes badly, let it go. Every task is scored separately, so the next one is a fresh start.

Put the tips into practice

Tips only help when they become habits, and habits come from practice with feedback. Pick the three tips that match your error log, use them in your next five practice tasks, and check whether the same mistakes still appear.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important CELPIP tip?

Work on your weakest section first. Requirements usually apply to each of the four skills, so the lowest one decides whether you meet your target.

Is CELPIP easier than IELTS?

Many test takers find the format easier because it uses everyday Canadian situations and is taken in one sitting on a computer, but the English level needed for a given CLB is the same.

Keep reading

CELPass is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with Paragon Testing Enterprises. CELPIP is a trademark of Paragon Testing Enterprises. Check the official CELPIP website and IRCC for current test rules and requirements.