CELPIP Test Format
Understand the complete CELPIP General test format before you start preparing. Learn about the four components, duration, question types and what to expect on test day.
CELPIP General Overview
CELPIP stands for the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program. It is a computer-delivered English language test that evaluates practical English communication skills.
The CELPIP General Test assesses four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. All four components are completed in a single test sitting.
CELPIP General is officially designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for permanent residence applications and is also accepted for professional and educational purposes.
CELPIP Listening
Approximate duration: 46–55 minutes
The Listening component includes questions based on conversations, information, discussions, news and viewpoints.
Listening to Problem Solving
Listening to a Daily Life Conversation
Listening for Information
Listening to a News Item
Listening to a Discussion
Listening to Viewpoints
CELPIP Reading
Approximate duration: 43–56 minutes
Reading Correspondence
Reading to Apply a Diagram
Reading for Information
Reading for Viewpoints
CELPIP Writing
Duration: approximately 53 minutes
The CELPIP Writing component contains two tasks:
Writing Task 1: Writing an Email
Candidates write an email based on a given situation.
Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions
Candidates choose between two options and explain their preference.
CELPIP Speaking
Duration: approximately 15 minutes
The CELPIP Speaking component contains eight tasks:
1. Giving Advice
2. Talking About a Personal Experience
3. Describing a Scene
4. Making Predictions
5. Comparing and Persuading
6. Dealing with a Difficult Situation
7. Expressing Opinions
8. Describing an Unusual Situation
CELPIP General LS
There is also a CELPIP General LS Test, which evaluates Listening and Speaking only. This test is designated for Canadian citizenship applications. Candidates should always confirm the correct test type required for their application.