CELPIP test format
The CELPIP-General test is a computer-delivered English test accepted by IRCC for Canadian permanent residence and citizenship. It has four sections taken in one sitting of about three hours, and each section gets a CELPIP level from M to 12, which matches the same CLB level. CELPIP-General LS, used for citizenship, has only the Listening and Speaking sections.
Want to see what a good answer looks like? Browse CELPIP Speaking and Writing sample answers at three CLB levels for every task, or try a free CELPIP Listening or Reading sample test with the answer key.
CELPIP Listening
Six scored parts with 38 questions, from everyday conversations to a news report and a video discussion. You hear each recording once. Time: about 47–55 minutes.
- Part 1: Listening to Problem SolvingA conversation in three sections in which two people work through a problem, such as a booking mix-up or a repair.
- Part 2: Listening to a Daily Life ConversationA short conversation about an everyday situation, such as a store return or plans with a neighbour.
- Part 3: Listening for InformationOne person explains something to another, such as how a program works or what a job involves.
- Part 4: Listening to a News ItemA local news report, such as a community event, a new by-law or an unusual story.
- Part 5: Listening to a DiscussionA video of three people discussing a decision, for example at work or in a community group.
- Part 6: Listening to ViewpointsA report or talk presenting different opinions on an issue, such as a new policy or a social trend.
CELPIP Reading
Four parts with 38 questions: an email or letter, a diagram, an informational text and an opinion piece with a reader's comment. Time: about 55–60 minutes.
- Part 1: Reading CorrespondenceA personal email or letter, followed by a reply you complete with drop-down choices.
- Part 2: Reading to Apply a DiagramA diagram such as a schedule, price list or floor plan, with an email that refers to it.
- Part 3: Reading for InformationAn informational article in four paragraphs, A to D, on a topic such as science, history or travel.
- Part 4: Reading for ViewpointsAn opinion article followed by a reader's comment that responds to it.
CELPIP Writing
Two tasks: an email (27 minutes) and a survey response giving your opinion (26 minutes), each 150–200 words. Time: about 53–60 minutes.
CELPIP Speaking
Eight tasks recorded on the computer, each with 30–60 seconds to prepare and 60–90 seconds to speak. Time: about 15–20 minutes.
- Task 1: Giving AdviceGive advice to a friend or family member who is facing a choice or a problem.
- Task 2: Talking about a Personal ExperienceDescribe a past experience, such as a time you learned something new or helped someone.
- Task 3: Describing a SceneDescribe a picture of a busy scene, such as a park, a kitchen or a street market, to someone who cannot see it.
- Task 4: Making PredictionsUsing the same picture as Task 3, predict what will probably happen next.
- Task 5: Comparing and PersuadingChoose between two options, then persuade a family member that your choice is better than theirs.
- Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult SituationChoose one of two people to speak to in an awkward situation and explain your decision to them.
- Task 7: Expressing OpinionsGive and support your opinion on a question, such as whether cities should ban cars downtown.
- Task 8: Describing an Unusual SituationDescribe a strange object or scene in a picture to someone who cannot see it, usually on the phone.
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.