What’s the Difference Between CELPIP and IELTS?
If you want to study or immigrate to Canada, you will need to prove your English Proficiency (except for Quebec). You have two options: the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP). Both these tests are accepted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada and many post-secondary institutions across Canada.
About the Test:
Both tests are designed to test your English Proficiency, and both are acceptable when proving that you can survive in Canada’s English society. However, there are still things you will want to consider when deciding on a test. The CELPIP Test is designed specifically for Canadian Permanent Residency, while the IELTS test is recognized internationally. Both tests produce a final score, which is then compared with the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB), which demonstrates Canada's language standards.
Key Test Components:
Both the IELTS and CELPIP tests measure the four language features – reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The score breakdown of the tests differ. CELPIP had a score of 1 to 12 which calibrates directly with the CLB, while IELTS has a score out of 9. See this graph to understand the differences on how these sections on the tests differ:
Differences in test sections of IELTS and CELPIP
Test Centre Locations:
Both the CELPIP and IELTS are easily accessible within Canada. If you are in Canada, CELPIP is more convenient as there are 33 locations while there are only 5 IELTS locations. However, CELPIP testing is only offered in 7 countries (Singapore, UAE, Philippines, India, China, USA, and Canada) while the IELTS exam had testing centres worldwide.
Price, Time, and Results:
Differences in Difficulty:
Since the IELTS and CELPIP tests were both designed to test one’s English proficiency, the difficulty level is roughly the same for each test. However, each test sections are different, and thus can be viewed as less difficult than its counterpart. The most common are:
1. The CELPIP test is fully computerized, while the IELTS remains largely paperback. The advantage of a fully computerized test at that it is easier to keep track of time, and finish the writing test with a faster pace. Moreover, the CELPIP provides spell check in the writing section.
2. The CELPIP test uses Canadian speakers, while the IELTS uses various other nationality accents. Thus, some test takers may find the listening section of the CELPIP exam much easier than the listening section of the IELTS.
3. The IELTS exam allows students to speak with an examiner during the speaking section. This provides students with the opportunity to clarify their ideas, and form a rapport with the examiner. The CELPIP speaking section has no live examiner, and requires the student to record their voice. Many people find that speaking to a real person is easier and more comfortable than recording their voices.
For help with preparing for the IELTS or CELPIP tests, click here.
