CELPIP or IELTS? What’s the difference between the tests?

What should you opt for? CELPIP or IELTS? This is what potential examines are troubled by why making tough decisions about tests in English proficiency. This is why you need the distinct features of each test to make an informed decision. In this article, we discuss about the difference between CELPIP or IELTS.

What do the abbreviations CELPIP and IELTS stand for?

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System, while CELPIP stands for Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program. Both these tests are designed to test a student’s proficiency in the English language. Generally, these tests are considered benchmark examinations required for application in universities and jobs, the CELPIP applies to immigration and permanent residency in Canada.

Key highlights of the article

• Distinction between CELPIP and IELTS
• Distribution of marks in each section
• Which exam is valid for what region
• Which exam is best suitable for you.

What are the major differences between these tests?

The pivotal distinction between these tests is that IELTS is available both online and offline while CELPIP is solely computer-based. And although both tests are conducted in English and each one scores you on your ability to use the language in times of need or on a daily basis, the foundation of each examination is different. It has different marking schemes and the basic skills that are demanded vary greatly as well.

Know the difference between IELTS and CELPIPClick To Tweet

The following list will help differentiate the specifications of each:

Specification	CELPIP	IELTS
Language	It requires a major focus on functional English. People are expected to solve several practical problems that they might come across during their stay in the country.	More focused on theoretical English. You will be tested on grammar and application.
Spelling and Grammar (Both tests accept American and British English. )	Designed for Canadian English   Although American and British English are accepted.	Designed for British English   Although American and British English are accepted.
Scoring	Each section is scored from 1 to 12	Each section is scored from 1 to 9

Scoring criteria for IELTS

Sharpen those skills 

Both IELTS and CELPIP are categorically skill-based examinations, therefore you will find no distinct section that says “Grammar” or “Vocabulary”. But, it is imperative that you sharpen your skills in both these categories. You might think that everyday interactions do not require proper grammar or efficient vocabulary, but if you are applying for colleges in these countries, you will want the odds to be in your favour.

FAQs

“It might seem that the exam tasks are basically similar in almost every aspect, but rest assured, they have some minute differences that prove to be very important.”

FAQ - CELPIP or IELTSClick To Tweet

What are the skills required in the Writing section?

IELTS: candidates are expected to compose a report on a given diagram and construct a totally plagiarism-free essay.

CELPIP: candidates are required to write a well-versed email and then reply to certain survey questions.

In conclusion, although both the written tests require proficiency in the English language, the skills demanded are very different. Some candidates might find writing an essay to be a menial job, and practising such things usually results in higher marks, others might feel constructing an Email is much easier, since they are accustomed to addressing their teachers and other professionals through email.

What is the method for question distribution among each component? (CELPIP or IELTS) 

The speaking section consists of 8 and 3 components respectively:

IELTS: the speaking section in IELTS is divided into three sections that mainly test the ability of the candidate to discuss topics about everyday lives, giving a speech on personal experience, or expressing their opinion on a given topic.

8 Tips for IELTS Listening Section

CELPIP: the speaking section in CELPIP is divided into 7 sections. These sections are devised to delve deeper into the candidates’ ability to converse on a daily basis. Two sections of CELPIP have a similar structure like the IELTS, while other sections focus on giving advice or testing how the candidate deals with and overcome difficult situations.

Can you give me an example of a typical component in each of these tests?

For example, the listening section has 7 components in IELTS with a total of 40 questions while the listening section in CELPIP consists of 4 components having 40 questions as well. In the reading section, you are required to solve 38 questions spanning 4 components for IELTS whereas for CELPIP you are expected to solve 40 questions spread over 3 components.

The following list is tabulated for better understanding.

Task	IELTS	CELPIP
Listening	There are 7 components with 40 questions	There are 4 components with 40 questions
Reading	There are 4 components with 38 questions	There are 3 components with 40 questions
Writing	Writing emails and writing answers to surveys	Framing a letter and giving an opinion on the given topic
Speaking	Consists of 8 components	Consists of 3 components

Duration and results (CELPIP or IELTS)

IELTS: all the components in IELTS might require more than one day for completion. The speaking section is generally reserved for a different date or allocated at a different venue. IELTS has no fixed duration which might vary depending on several factors although students are given an approximate time to complete the test that does not include the transitions.

Coherence And Cohesion In IELTS Writing Task

CELPIP: the duration for CELPIP is 3 hours in a single sitting. This time includes the time to read the questions, answering them and transitional phases. You might take slightly longer for the listening and writing sections but that is compensated by the shorter section allocated for writing.

Results: the duration for declaration of results is similar, namely, 13 days for IELTS and 10-12 days for CELPIP.

Key takeaways

1. IELTS and CELPIP are both tests for English proficiency
2. CELPIP is computer-based while IELTS is available for both online and offline examinations
3. CELPIP focuses on functional English while IELTS focuses on theoretical proficiency.
4. IELTS caters to major English speaking countries while CELPIP is concentrated on a Canada based clientele.
5. You have exactly 3 hours to complete CELPIP while IELTS has no designated time span.
6. Results are declared within two weeks from the date of examination for both tests.
7. More schools accept IELTS scores over CELPIP
8. You can apply for citizenship with a CELPIP score
9. The writing section of CELPIP is comparatively easier than IELTS.
10. IELTS requires you to write an essay while CELPIP experts answer in an email format.

Which test seems more lucrative and for whom?

Finally, there are several other components that require your attention that will help you make the right decision about CELPIP or IELTS. If you are interested in going to Canada for education or jobs, you should go ahead with CELPIP. It is a rather generic examination and passing isn’t that difficult. And if you want to expand your horizons and want to leave no stone unturned, you should go for IELTS. It requires better skills and it is accepted across several countries. And if you want to leave nothing to chance, it is best to opt for both examinations. It might require more preparation, but it will surely be worth it. And helping you through the whole process will be Exam Practice. You can register with us for any kind of help with preparations.