CELPIP stands for Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program. It is a computer-based English test accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence and citizenship applications. There are two versions: CELPIP-General tests all four skills and is used for PR, while CELPIP-General LS tests only listening and speaking and is used for citizenship.
CELPIP-General vs CELPIP-General LS
| CELPIP-General | CELPIP-General LS | |
|---|---|---|
| Skills tested | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Listening, Speaking |
| Test time | Under 3 hours | About 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Used for | Permanent residence, professional designations, some colleges and universities | Canadian citizenship |
| Price in Canada | Under $300 + tax (see celpip.ca) | Under $200 + tax (see celpip.ca) |
Canadian prices from celpip.ca, checked September 2026. International prices vary.
Which CELPIP do you need?
For permanent residence (PR): take CELPIP-General. Express Entry accepts only CELPIP-General.
For citizenship: if you are 18 to 54, you need to show CLB 4 or higher in speaking and listening. CELPIP-General LS is the shorter and cheaper way to do that. CELPIP-General is also accepted, since it includes both skills. See IRCC's language proof for citizenship.
Already took CELPIP-General for PR? You may be able to reuse those results for citizenship. IRCC's citizenship language tool asks about this directly.
Applying from outside Canada? Use the test location search on celpip.ca and pick "CELPIP - LS" to see whether it is offered in your country.
How CELPIP is scored
Each skill gets its own level, from 0 up to 12. The official score tables group everything below level 3 as "M". From level 3 up, CELPIP levels match Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels one to one, so a CELPIP 7 equals CLB 7. For example, Express Entry's Federal Skilled Worker program requires at least CLB 7 in every skill, while citizenship requires CLB 4 in speaking and listening only. For every level and what it unlocks, see our CELPIP score chart.
Test format
Both versions are taken on a computer in one sitting, including Speaking: you speak into a microphone and your answer is recorded.
| Section | CELPIP-General | CELPIP-General LS |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 46 to 55 minutes | 46 to 55 minutes |
| Reading | 43 to 56 minutes | Not included |
| Writing | 53 minutes | Not included |
| Speaking | 15 minutes, 8 tasks | 15 minutes, 8 tasks |
How to register
- Go to the official website, celpip.ca, and create an account.
- Choose your test type: CELPIP-General or CELPIP-General LS.
- Pick a test centre, date and time.
- Pay the fee online.
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID on test day.
Frequently asked questions
What does CELPIP stand for?
Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program.
Which CELPIP test is for PR?
CELPIP-General. Express Entry accepts only CELPIP-General, and results must be less than 2 years old.
Which CELPIP test is for citizenship?
CELPIP-General LS, which tests listening and speaking. CELPIP-General is accepted too.
What CELPIP score do I need for citizenship?
Level 4 or higher in both listening and speaking, if you are 18 to 54 when you apply.
How long does the CELPIP test take?
CELPIP-General takes under 3 hours and CELPIP-General LS about 1 hour 10 minutes, each in a single sitting.
Practice before test day
Taking CELPIP-General LS for citizenship? Practice the 8 Speaking tasks and get AI feedback. Practice needs a free account. AI feedback is free up to a daily limit.