CELPIP VS IELTS: WHY CELPIP IS THE SMARTER CHOICE IN CANADA

What are CELPIP and IELTS tests? What are the differences between the CELPIP and IELTS tests? Which test should I take to move to Canada? Is CELPIP easier than IELTS? How is the CELPIP General test a more convenient test?

These are some of the many questions that might be there in your head. If you are planning a future in Canada, then it is obvious to know the answers to these questions.

In the modern world, where almost everyone is migrating to Canada for better education and job opportunities, demonstrating your English proficiency skills is an essential part of the process. Whether moving for education, immigration, or professional advancement, you must take an English proficiency test.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) are two of the most prominent English proficiency tests to demonstrate your skills. A candidate’s application process will be influenced by the English language competency test you choose for Canadian immigration.

This posting will provide answers to those questions. You will learn about the considerations while choosing the best test for you. By the end of this blog post, one will know which test is more convenient for you.

First, there is the test breakdown of the two tests.

CELPIP and IELTS: A Basic Overview

The two most common tests people take when they are planning to move to Canada are the IELTS and CELPIP English language proficiency tests. Here’s the breakdown of both.

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

IELTS is an internationally accepted English language proficiency examination with two test formats. They are classified as IELTS General Training and IELTS Academic— IELTS General Training is for immigration to Canada and IELTS Academic is for students who desire to migrate for study purposes. Both tests consist of four sections, reading, writing, listening, and speaking. In the case of Canadian immigration, your total band score is not required.

CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program

The test has been developed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). CELPIP General Test and CELPIP General LS Test are the two tests. Candidates must appear for the CELPIP General Test for permanent residence applications, professional designation, and universities, colleges, and vocational programs. However, the CELPIP General LS Test is for candidates applying for citizenship.

In contrast with IELTS, which is prepared for global English competence, the CELPIP English test was created for Canadian English and uses British and American English with Canadian content. If your purpose of stay is Canada, then you should take the CELPIP General test.

CELPIP vs. IELTS: What’s the Difference?

To feel more confident about your decision, you should learn about the differences between these two tests. This will further help you in making the right decision. CELPIP English test and IELTS are different in various aspects, including…

1. Exam Format

CELPIP is an entirely computer-based test with listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections, whereas IELTS includes paper-based or computer-based formats. Computer-based tests allow you to not worry about your handwriting and focus on your writing speed.

2. Language Focus

The CELPIP English test is designed to assess Canadian English language usage. On the other hand, IELTS covers more general English language use. The advantage of the CELPIP test is that it assesses common everyday language to test your English skills enabling the test takers to become ready for the Canadian work environment.

3. Scoring Systems

CELPIP uses a standardized scoring scale that reflects Canadian language standards, while IELTS has its own scoring criteria. CELPIP has a point-based scoring system mapped to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) levels. However, IELTS is band-based aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) levels. 

4. Test Duration and Time Management

CELPIP being a computer-based test is designed to be completed in a single day which makes it convenient for the students. Meanwhile, IELTS may take two days to complete the test as the speaking test is held on a different day.

5. Result Time(s)

The CELPIP English test results are shared with the test taker within 4-5 business days. Candidates also have an option for Express Rating and get their results in half-time. Conversely, IELTS results typically take 13 days for paper-based tests and 1-5 days for computer-based tests.

Having understood the differences between the two tests, you can easily choose to opt for the best for you. Evaluate the different aspects to know which test best suits your needs.

Which Test is Easier, IELTS or CELPIP?

Understanding the differences, we are sure that the CELPIP English Test is the top option for people who wish to immigrate to Canada. But the question now is, which test is easier? Let’s get the answer to this as well.

Here’s a detailed analysis:

• CELPIP’s listening part is less complex, with Canadian accents and real-life situations whereas IELTS contains more academic words and complicated audio.
• The two tests share identical reading components. Nevertheless, IELTS may require stronger analytical abilities.
• CELPIP’s writing sections are simpler, and they are all about communication in everyday life. In contrast, IELTS writing is more formal.
• CELPIP’s speaking exam is computerized, which others find less intimidating while IELTS’ live interview provides more interactive opportunities.

All in all, one might state that CELPIP is comparatively easier than IELTS. However, this might be at the discretion of the individual perspective and objectives.

CELPIP English Test Format

As mentioned before, the CELPIP test is of two types, the CELPIP General Test and the CELPIP General LS Test. Below is the detailed exam format:

CELPIP General LS Test

As the name suggests, the General-LS Test measures the listening and speaking abilities of the candidate. The test duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

• The listening part is usually 47-55 minutes, and the question is to listen to passages and respond to questions.
• In the speaking part, candidates need to respond to questions displayed on screen orally which takes 15-20 minutes.

CELPIP General Test

While the CELPIP General Test, however, tests all four components: listening, reading, writing, and speaking abilities. The overall test time is around 3 hours.

• The listening and speaking sections are in the same format and division as the CELPIP General-LS Test.
• Candidates must read passages and respond to questions within 55-60 minutes on the reading test of the exam.
• The writing section will typically take 53-60 minutes, and the test takers must answer questions with written responses.

CELPIP Test Booking

The CELPIP English test can be booked from the official website. However, for a hassle-free experience, you can book your test with BITTS Testing Services.

BITTS Testing Services is the first official CELPIP test center in Mississauga. BITTS is Canada’s largest and most trusted testing provider with multiple locations across Canada. We possess excellent technology infrastructure as well as good training staff in addition to stringent monitoring to manage candidates’ tests efficiently. Accessibility and accommodations like a private room and large-sized chairs/seats are also available through BITTS Testing Services to the test candidates as required.

Follow these steps for CELPIP online test booking with BITTS:

• Go to the official BITTS Testing Services website (https://bitts.ca/) and choose the CELPIP English proficiency test.
• Once you are on the CELPIP test page, you will see a list of centers. Pick the best one for your province.
• Following your purpose of taking the CELPIP test, choose the test format. Select the one that fulfills your purpose.
• Select a date that allows you enough time to prepare. Most demanded CELPIP test dates and popular centers tend to have limited seats, so make an early booking to ensure your desired date.
• The next step is to sign up, to begin with your application form. Begin by entering all the information in the mandatory fields.
• Pay the test fee. The CELPIP test fee is subject to variation based on your province. The payment can be made online using a credit card or other common payment methods.
• Once your CELPIP test booking is done, you’ll acquire a confirmation e-mail together with your test information, which includes the date, time, and location.

By following these steps, you will be all set to take the CELPIP at BITTS Testing Centers. CELPIP online test booking with BITTS guarantees a stress-free and structured test experience.

Frequently Asked Questions—FAQs

1. Which test should I take, IELTS or CELPIP?

One’s purpose and requirements of the country or institution you are applying to will decide which test you opt for IELTS or CELPIP. While the IELTS is recognized worldwide for several reasons, the CELPIP might be more appropriate for your planned immigration to Canada.

2. What are the advantages of the CELPIP test?

The CELPIP test has numerous benefits, which include being accepted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Canadian immigration applications. It provides a comprehensive evaluation by evaluating language skills, such as speaking, writing, listening, and reading.

3. When can I retake the CELPIP test?

Candidates need to wait at least 30 days from your previous CELPIP test dates to reappear for your CELPIP test. Candidates may also appear as many times as you desire, but you can’t register for more than a single session in 4 days.

4. How do I find a BITTS CELPIP test center near me?

Visit BITTS Testing Services’ official website to find the test center near you. BITTS has its main CELPIP test centre in Mississauga with multiple centers in different provinces.

5. Are special accommodations available at BITTS Testing Centers?

BITTS is committed to providing accessibility and accommodation to the test takers who need it. This accommodation can range from providing a private test room to providing spacious chairs/seats as requested.

Conclusion

Deciding between both tests is a significant choice on your way to Canada. There are several advantages of opting for the CELPIP English test because it is made for Canada specifically. Yet, the ideal test is subject to your requirements and your strengths.

Moreover, if you want to take CELPIP as your English proficiency test, choose BITTS Testing Services to experience a smooth test booking and taking experience. With multiple test centers, advanced technology, and an excellent support system, BITTS will help you to experience the best.

Visit BITTS Testing Services’ official website to book your test. For further assistance, contact us at +1 (800) 958 5186 or email info@bitts.ca. We look forward to hearing from you.