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Mbbs 20 Aug, 2024
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One of the most difficult decisions is made when it comes to proving your English proficiency for immigration, academic, or professional purposes and you need to choose between writing CELPIP or IELTS. Both tests have their own specific uses and targets. Keep reading to learn more about CELPIP vs IELTS, including the format and fees for both exams, equivalence in scores, when to use one exam over the other, and who accepts them.
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System) are two prominent English language proficiency tests. Although most people choose to take the CELPIP test when applying for Canadian immigration or certification, IELTS is more internationally recognized, with many institutions and government offices requiring these scores.
The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is an English language test that measures the ability to function in work and social situations. It's a straightforward, no-frills test! This is a computerized test, which is beneficial if the candidate is familiar with this format.
CELPIP-General: A 4-skills test used for immigration and professional purposes in Canada.
CELPIP-General LS: Tests only Listening and Speaking skills, used mainly for applying to become a citizen of Canada.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) measures the ability to use and understand English across various skills. The examination is offered in both paper-based and computer-based modes, making it accessible to applicants from many different fields.
IELTS Academic: For academic purposes and those who want to study in an English-speaking country or pursue higher education.
IELTS General Training: Suitable for candidates wishing to migrate or for non-academic training purposes.
Deciding between CELPIP and IELTS requires understanding their formats and how they assess your English language skills.
CELPIP-General:
Listening: 47–55 minutes with real-life listening tasks (conversations and announcements).
Reading: 55–60 minutes, including tasks like understanding messages and answering related questions.
Writing: 53-60 minutes for tasks such as writing emails and responding to surveys.
Speaking: 15-20 minutes, involving tasks like expressing opinions and debating, depending on your location and situation.
CELPIP-General LS:
Listening: 47-55 minutes (same as the CELPIP-General Listening).
Speaking: 15-20 minutes, where speaking skills are tested through questions and task-based exercises.
IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training:
Listening: 30 minutes (includes various accents and contexts).
Reading: 60 minutes (varied questions about different texts to measure reading skills).
Writing:
Task 1: 150 words in 60 minutes.
Task 2: 250 words in 40 minutes.
Speaking: 11 to 14 minutes (includes an interview and discussion).
Understanding how CELPIP scores compare with IELTS scores helps in interpreting your results and meeting various requirements.
Results are measured on a scale of 1 to 12 for CELPIP, with 12 being the highest score. It is assessed in a comprehensive manner that reflects actual performance. Approximate correlations with IELTS bands are:
CELPIP 12 ≈ IELTS 9: Expert user
CELPIP 10 ≈ IELTS 8: Very good user
CELPIP 8 ≈ IELTS 7: Good user
CELPIP 6 ≈ IELTS 6: Competent user
IELTS is scored on a scale of 0 to 9. Each band signifies a particular level of ability:
Band 9: Expert user
Band 8: Very good user
Band 7: Good user
Band 6: Competent user
The CELPIP Score Levels — Approximately Equivalent to IELTS Bands. For instance, if you score 10 in CELPIP, it is equivalent to a band 8 in IELTS. This helps in understanding how your performance is represented across different assessment schemes.
You can use the acronym saying "CELPIP is accepted and recognized" but not always vice versa.
CELPIP is widely accepted by Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and many Provincial Nominee Programs. Many Canadian professional bodies and licensing organizations also recognize CELPIP scores for certification or licensing.
IELTS is accepted by thousands of institutions around the world, including universities, employers, and governments. It is accepted in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. IELTS is a requirement for university admissions, visa applications, and professional registrations in English-speaking countries.
Here is an overview of the costs associated with CELPIP and IELTS test fees.
CELPIP-General: Typically ranges between CAD 280 to CAD 350, depending on your location and the testing center.
CELPIP-General LS: Ranges from CAD 200 to CAD 250.
IELTS Academic: Ranges from USD 215 to USD 250.
IELTS General Training: Costs around USD 215 to USD 250.
Prices may vary depending on the location of your test center.
The choice between CELPIP and IELTS can depend on what you need from the testing process. CELPIP is ideal if you want to immigrate to Canada, as it is recognized by Canadian authorities and is computer-based. For global recognition, IELTS is preferable, especially if you intend to study, work, or migrate to a country other than Canada. IELTS offers both paper-based and computer-based options.
The difficulty of CELPIP versus IELTS depends on your strengths and preferences:
CELPIP: Recognized for its computer-based system, CELPIP might be easier for those comfortable with technology and real-life scenarios used in the test. It may also appeal to students due to the practical examples used in the classroom.
IELTS: The difficulty of IELTS varies based on whether you take the Academic or General Training version. The Academic Test features more challenging texts and tasks, while the General Training Test focuses on basic survival skills in various social situations. The traditional spoken test format of IELTS might be challenging for some who prefer written communication.
1. What is the main difference between CELPIP and IELTS?
The primary difference between CELPIP and IELTS lies in their focus and usage. CELPIP is tailored for Canadian immigration and certification, reflecting Canadian English usage. IELTS, on the other hand, is a globally recognized test used for education, immigration, and professional purposes across many countries.
2. How do CELPIP and IELTS scores compare?
CELPIP scores range from 1 to 12, while IELTS scores range from 0 to 9. For example, a CELPIP score of 10 is roughly equivalent to an IELTS band score of 8. The conversion is approximate and may vary slightly based on specific skill areas.
3. Which test is more affordable, CELPIP or IELTS?
CELPIP generally has lower costs in Canada, ranging from CAD 200 to CAD 350. IELTS costs between USD 215 to USD 250, which can be higher depending on your location. The choice may depend on the currency exchange rates and additional fees in your area.
4. Is CELPIP accepted for international immigration purposes?
CELPIP is primarily accepted for Canadian immigration purposes. For immigration to other countries, IELTS is more widely accepted and recognized by governments and institutions around the world.
5. Which test is easier, CELPIP or IELTS?
The ease of CELPIP vs. IELTS can depend on individual preferences and strengths. CELPIP’s computer-based format and practical tasks may be easier for some, while IELTS might be more suitable for those accustomed to traditional test formats and academic language.
Taking these considerations about CELPIP vs. IELTS will help you make the right decision based on your needs and preferences. Whether your priority is Canadian immigration or global recognition, understanding the differences between these tests will provide you with the information needed to decide accordingly.
