IELTS vs CELPIP – Which One Should You Take in 2024

Whether you are planning to take IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program), it all depends on your purpose of choosing it. 

IELTS is widely accepted worldwide, while CELPIP is accepted in Canada alone. If you are thinking of living and working in Canada, then deciding on IELTS vs CELPIP might be a tough choice for you. Both tests are accepted for immigration and citizenship in the country. 

Here’s looking at the IELTS vs CELPIP debate in more detail.

IELTS vs CELPIP – Which Test is Easier

When it comes to assessing the difficulty levels of both these tests, it is important to state that easy or hard are subjective concepts. Both these examinations are tailored to accurately measure your proficiency in the English language. 

From this perspective, the difficulty levels may be quite similar for both these tests. IELTS is both computer and paper-based, while CELPIP is fully computer-based. However, CELPIP has a spell checker for the writing section, which may make things slightly easier too. 

CELPIP has native Canadian speakers for its Listening section while IELTS has speakers from countries like the US, UK, New Zealand, Australia, and Canada for the Listening section. 

Therefore, IELTS might become slightly tougher, as identifying multiple accents can be confusing at times. CELPIP does not have a live conversation for the Speaking section, unlike the IELTS. You can only record your voice on your computer, which may be more comfortable. 

Hence, CELPIP may be somewhat easier due to these aspects, although many test-takers may be more comfortable with the IELTS format. 

Focuses of CELPIP and IELTS Exam

Both the IELTS and CELPIP are helpful in assessing the English language proficiency of aspirants. Both tests have four sections, namely reading, writing, speaking, and listening. 

The CELPIP test aims at evaluating particular language skills needed for Canadian citizenship and permanent residency. Hence, it makes use of Canadian English for its sections while accepting spellings in American and British English across sections. 

It is necessary for professional purposes in Canada too. The CELPIP is Canada-focused in its entirety. 

IELTS is applicable for immigration, working, and studying in English-speaking nations worldwide, including Canada. It accepts both American and British English for spellings while using a mixture of native accents throughout the sections. It is available in 140+ countries. 

Both these tests have the approval of CIC (Citizenship and Immigration Canada). The final test score is evaluated against the CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark). 

IELTS and CELPIP- Difference 

There are several differences between the CELPIP and IELTS test. Some of them include the following: 

Parameter	IELTS	CELPIP
Purpose	Immigration, employment, and studying worldwide	Particularly for Canadian English language proficiency and citizenship/permanent residency
Types	Two versions- General and Academic	One version which offers Canadian contexts
Mode of Test	Computer and paper-based options	Only computer-based
Speaking Section	Video call with examiner	Virtually
Assessment Type	General evaluation of English language skills that are applicable for several countries	Focus on Canadian vocabulary and accents
Scoring	Band scoring with scores of 0-9 for each section. There are 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 increments. They are rounded off to the closest half/whole band	1-12 for each section without using any bands

Which Test to Choose

Here are some aspects that you should consider while making a decision. 

• Duration- The CELPIP takes three hours and is done in one sitting. IELTS may not require a single sitting. Three sections are done in the same room, but the speaking section is conducted at a different time, day, and even location in some cases. CELPIP scores are accessible online within business days after the testing date. Computer-based IELTS scores are also available in three to five days while the paper-based test results are provided within 13 days of the testing date. 
• Convenience- IELTS is both paper and computer-based, while the CELPIP is only computer-based. You should thus choose as per your convenience. 
• Cost- The CELPIP costs INR 12,500 + applicable taxes for India, while the IELTS costs INR 17,000. You should weigh your budget and choose accordingly.  

IELTS and CELPIP Test Format Comparison 

Here is a comparison of the test format for both the CELPIP and IELTS. 

Section	CELPIP	IELTS
Listening	47-55 minutes Seven components  40-46 questions	30 minutes Four components 40 questions
Reading	55-60 minutes Four components 38-45 questions	60 minutes Three components 40 questions
Speaking	15-20 minutes Eight components Eight short-answer questions	11-14 minutes Three components
Writing	53-60 minutes Two components	60 minutes Two components

Preparing for IELTS or CELPIP Exam

Now that you have a fair idea of the IELTS vs CELPIP debate, it is time to focus on preparation. Remember that the IELTS speaking section is done separately, while the other sections can be done in one sitting. The CELPIP is done in a single sitting.

Both these examinations have varying preparation resources available. You will find different samples and practice tests for IELTS and CELPIP. For the latter, you can focus on native Canadian accents, phrases, words, and expressions, while the IELTS will have a mix of these that are applicable across several countries.

Conclusion

Which one should you choose? Both the CELPIP and IELTS have their own advantages. Choose the right test, depending on whether you wish to focus only on Canada or apply to other countries too. When choosing one for Canada, consider various factors like the test format, duration, and costs before making a final decision. 

Read More:

• CELPIP General Test
• IELTS Exam Resources
• Exams to Write Study Abroad