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CELPIP General

CELPIP General Practice

Choose a module below to start practising. Each one matches the real CELPIP test format with instant feedback.

Understanding CELPIP / CLB Scores

CELPIP scores are reported as CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks) levels from 1 to 12. Most Canadian immigration programmes require CLB 7–9.

CLB 10–12
Advanced
CLB 7–9
Upper Intermediate
CLB 4–6
Intermediate
CLB 1–3
Basic

About the CELPIP General Test

CELPIP General (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program — General) is a fully computer-based English language test accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for most permanent residency pathways, including Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programmes, and Canadian citizenship applications. Paragon Testing Enterprises, a subsidiary of the University of British Columbia, develops and administers the test.

The test has four components, all delivered on a computer in a single session of approximately three hours. Listening (about 47 minutes) covers six parts featuring phone calls, news items, conversations, and on-location discussions.Reading (55 minutes) tests comprehension across four passage types: correspondence, diagrams, everyday texts, and viewpoints. Writing(about 53 minutes) has two tasks: Task 1 asks you to write an email (150–200 words in 27 minutes) and Task 2 asks you to respond to a survey (150–200 words in 26 minutes).Speaking (about 16 minutes) has 8 tasks covering everyday situations such as giving advice, describing a scene, and making an argument, all recorded by computer rather than assessed by a live examiner.

Scores are reported on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) scale from 1 to 12. Express Entry under the Federal Skilled Worker Programme and the Canadian Experience Class requires a minimum of CLB 7 in all four skills. Achieving CLB 9 in all four skills earns the maximum language points available under the CRS formula — a significant advantage in competitive draw rounds.

Bandleep offers free, unlimited practice for every CELPIP General module. Writing submissions receive instant CLB level estimates with grammar corrections. Reading and Listening tests include full answer explanations, and Speaking recordings receive AI CLB level feedback on all four scoring criteria. No account is required to start.

Need only Listening & Speaking? CELPIP General LS is a shorter test for select immigration streams.

General LS →

CELPIP General Questions Answered

What does CELPIP General test?
CELPIP General tests all four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It is accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency and citizenship applications.
What CLB level do I need for Canadian permanent residency?
Most Express Entry programmes require a minimum CLB 7 in all four skills. A higher CLB score earns more Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, improving your chance of an invitation to apply.
How is CELPIP Writing scored?
CELPIP Writing is scored on the CLB scale from 1 to 12. Raters assess your ability to communicate the message clearly, use a wide range of vocabulary, and construct grammatically correct sentences within the word count guidelines.
How long is the CELPIP General test?
The CELPIP General test takes approximately 3 hours in total, including check-in and instructions. Listening is about 47 minutes, Reading is 55 minutes, Writing is about 53 minutes (27 minutes for Task 1 and 26 minutes for Task 2), and Speaking is approximately 16 minutes. The entire test is computer-delivered.
What is the difference between CELPIP General and CELPIP General LS?
CELPIP General tests all four skills — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking — and is accepted for permanent residency and citizenship applications. CELPIP General LS tests only Listening and Speaking, and is accepted for select immigration pathways that do not require Reading and Writing scores. Most Express Entry applicants need CELPIP General.
Is CELPIP easier than IELTS for Canadian immigration?
Neither test is objectively easier — both are accepted by IRCC and both test the same four language skills. CELPIP is fully computer-based (including speaking, which is recorded by computer rather than assessed by a human examiner) and uses Canadian English contexts. IELTS includes a face-to-face speaking interview. Which test feels more natural depends on the individual. Practising both and taking the one you perform better on is a valid strategy.
How many times can I retake CELPIP?
There is no limit on the number of times you can take CELPIP. You can retake as often as you like and submit your best result. Paragon Testing Enterprises (which administers CELPIP) allows you to choose which score to send to IRCC. Results are valid for two years.
Can I practise CELPIP online for free?
Yes. Bandleep offers free practice for all four CELPIP General modules: Writing (Task 1 email and Task 2 survey response), Reading (passages and comprehension questions), Listening (audio recordings with transcripts), and Speaking (all 8 tasks with AI CLB level feedback). No account or payment is required.