What is the CELPIP test format?

CELPIP General has four components: Listening (47–55 min), Reading (55–60 min), Writing (53–60 min), and Speaking (15–20 min). Each component is scored 1–12.

How is the CELPIP scored?

Each component (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) is rated on a 1–12 scale aligned to CLB. There is no averaged overall score, but institutions consider the four component scores.

What can I bring on test day?

Bring valid government ID, confirmation email, and arrive early. Do not bring phones, smartwatches, paper notes, food or drinks into the test room unless approved as accommodation.

What is the difference between CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS?

CELPIP-General tests all four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) for immigration. CELPIP-General LS tests only Listening and Speaking for citizenship.

Can I practice the CELPIP exam online?

Yes. You can try our free online mock test that simulates the real CELPIP test structure with timing and CLB estimation.

CELPIP Test Format 2025 | Complete Guide to All 4 Components

CELPIP test structure overview

Listening: 47–55 min

Animated time progress

Detailed component timelines

Listening (~47–55 min)

Practice Task

Familiarization with audio & controls

Part 1–6

Problem solving, daily conversation, news item, viewpoints, info talks

Review

Check answers if time allows

Reading (~55–60 min)

Part 1

Correspondence (emails, messages)

Part 2

Applying a diagram

Part 3

Information texts

Part 4

Viewpoints and arguments

Writing (~53–60 min)

Task 1

Write an email (150–200 words)

Task 2

Respond to survey/opinion (150–200 words)

Proofread

Check grammar, tone, organization

Speaking (~15–20 min)

Practice

Microphone check and sample

Tasks 1–8

Advice, experience, describe, predict, persuade, cope, opinion, unusual situation

Scoring system (CLB 1–12)

Each component of the CELPIP exam (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) is scored on a 1–12 scale aligned to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB). Target scores for immigration programs often require CLB 7–9. See our CELPIP score chart for band comparisons.

Listening & Reading

Automatic scoring; ~38 questions per component

Writing

Human-rated criteria: content, organization, vocabulary, grammar

Speaking

Human-rated criteria: coherence, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation

Test Day Tips

Keep this checklist. You can copy it for quick reference.

Bring

Valid government-issued ID
Confirmation email and arrival details
Comfortable clothing; plan breaks

Do not bring

Phones, smartwatches, electronic devices
Paper notes, dictionaries, external aids
Food or drinks in the test room

CELPIP-General vs CELPIP-General LS

Feature

CELPIP-General

CELPIP-General LS

Skills

Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking

Listening, Speaking

Purpose

Immigration (PR), employment

Citizenship

Length

~3 hours

~1 hour

Scoring

Each skill 1–12

Listening & Speaking 1–12

Practice for higher CLB

Ready to experience the real test format?

Try a free CELPIP mock exam covering all 4 components with realistic timing.

Start Free Practice

FAQ about the CELPIP exam

Is the CELPIP computer-based?

Yes, both CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS are fully computer-delivered, including Speaking via headset and microphone.

How many questions are in Listening and Reading?

Typically around 38 questions per component across multiple parts. Manage time per part and avoid spending too long on a single item.

What is a good score for immigration?

Aim for CLB 7–9 depending on the specific program. Higher bands increase your profile competitiveness.

Can I retake the test?

Yes. You can retake CELPIP; prepare with targeted practice focusing on your lowest component.

Where can I practice?

Use our CELPIP mock test and writing samples to learn test format & structure thoroughly.

CELPIP Test: Complete Guide to Format & Structure