If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, you will need to prove your English skills. Two English tests accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) are CELPIP and IELTS General Training.
Both tests measure the same four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), but they differ in format, content, and delivery. This guide compares them side by side so you can choose the right one for your goals.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | CELPIP-General | IELTS General Training |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 100% computer-based | Computer-based, with an option to handwrite Writing at some centres |
| Speaking test | Recorded (speak into a microphone) | Face-to-face with an examiner |
| Accent | Canadian English | A range of English accents |
| Duration | Under 3 hours | About 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Scoring | Levels 0 to 12 (from level 3 up, each level equals the same CLB level) | Bands 0-9 (converted to CLB) |
| Results | 2-4 business days | 1-5 days (computer), within 5 days (Writing on Paper) |
| Fee in Canada | Under CAD 300 + taxes (see celpip.ca) | CAD 335-361 before tax at most centres, higher at some (IDP Canada) |
| Score validity | Express Entry needs results less than 2 years old. For citizenship, check IRCC's current rules. | Express Entry needs results less than 2 years old. For citizenship, check IRCC's current rules. |
| Availability | Canada + select international centres | Worldwide |
Test Format at a Glance
CELPIP-General
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 38 questions (6 parts) | 46-55 minutes |
| Reading | 38 questions (4 parts) | 43-56 minutes |
| Writing | 2 tasks | 53 minutes |
| Speaking | 8 tasks (recorded) | 15 minutes |
Everything is done on one computer in one sitting. You type your writing and speak into a microphone. There is no handwriting and no face-to-face interview.
IELTS General Training
| Section | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 40 questions (4 parts) | About 30 minutes |
| Reading | 40 questions (3 sections) | 60 minutes |
| Writing | 2 tasks (letter + essay) | 60 minutes |
| Speaking | 3 parts (face-to-face) | 11-14 minutes |
The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are completed in one sitting. The Speaking test is a separate face-to-face interview with an examiner. It may be on the same day or on a different day. Your test centre tells you when.
IRCC accepts IELTS General Training for Express Entry, not IELTS One Skill Retake.
How Scores Map to CLB Levels
IRCC uses Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels to assess your English. Both tests convert to CLB, but the conversion works differently:
- CELPIP scores equal CLB levels directly from level 3 up. A score of 7 means CLB 7, and a score of 9 means CLB 9.
- IELTS scores must be converted using an official table. The conversion is not the same for each skill.
Here is how common CLB levels compare between the two tests:
| CLB Level | CELPIP Score | IELTS Listening | IELTS Reading | IELTS Writing | IELTS Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLB 4 | 4 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| CLB 5 | 5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| CLB 7 | 7 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| CLB 9 | 9 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| CLB 10 | 10 | 8.5 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 7.5 |
For Express Entry, the minimum depends on the program. For example, the Federal Skilled Worker Program needs CLB 7 in all four skills. For Canadian citizenship, you need at least CLB 4 in Listening and Speaking.
Where Are They Accepted?
- CELPIP is accepted by IRCC for permanent residency and citizenship applications in Canada, and by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for visa purposes (tests taken in person on or after 7 August 2025; CELPIP Online is not accepted there). It is also accepted for professional designations and by some colleges and universities.
- IELTS is accepted by universities, immigration offices and employers in many countries, including Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and the USA.
If your only goal is Canadian immigration or citizenship, both tests are equally valid. IRCC does not prefer one over the other. But if you may also need your results outside Canada, IELTS gives you more flexibility.
Key Differences That May Affect Your Choice
| Factor | CELPIP | IELTS |
|---|---|---|
| Speaking format | Speak into a microphone (recorded) | Speak to a real person |
| Writing format | Type on a computer | Type on a computer, with an option to handwrite at some centres |
| Content style | Everyday Canadian situations (emails, conversations) | Everyday and workplace topics from many countries |
| Accent in Listening | Canadian English only | A range of English accents |
| Cost | Lower (under CAD 300 + taxes in Canada) | Higher (CAD 335-361 before tax at most centres) |
| Results speed | 2-4 business days | About the same (1-5 days on computer, within 5 days for Writing on Paper) |
Which Test Should You Choose?
CELPIP may be a better fit if you:
- Are applying for Canadian permanent residency or citizenship
- Prefer typing over handwriting
- Feel more comfortable speaking to a computer than to a person
- Are familiar with Canadian English accents and vocabulary
- Want a lower test fee
IELTS may be a better fit if you:
- Need test results that are recognized outside Canada
- May also apply to a university or college (they usually ask for IELTS Academic, a different test)
- Prefer speaking to a real examiner in a conversation
- Want the option to write on paper
- Are already familiar with the IELTS format from previous experience
Quick Summary
- Both CELPIP and IELTS are equally accepted by IRCC for Canadian immigration
- CELPIP is fully computer-based with Canadian English content and a lower test fee
- IELTS is recognized worldwide, and some centres let you handwrite Writing
- CELPIP scores map directly to CLB levels, while IELTS scores require conversion
- Your best choice depends on your goals, comfort with the test format, and whether you need results outside Canada
Start Preparing
If you are leaning toward CELPIP, the best way to get ready is through practice. Try our free CELPIP-style practice for Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Reading practice is scored instantly. Practice needs a free account. AI feedback on Writing and Speaking is free up to a daily limit.