If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, one of the first questions is which English test to take. For Express Entry, the Government of Canada accepts two of the most popular options: CELPIP-General and IELTS General Training. Both can give you the language results you need. The better choice depends on you.
What both tests have in common
- Both test the same four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.
- Both are accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Express Entry. You must take the General version: CELPIP-General or IELTS General Training.
- Your results are converted into Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels, which is what immigration programs use.
How they are different
The speaking test
This is the biggest difference. In CELPIP, you take the Speaking test on a computer. You speak to the screen and your answers are recorded. In IELTS, the Speaking test is a face-to-face conversation with an examiner. Some people feel more relaxed talking to a computer. Others find a real conversation more natural.
The style of the questions
CELPIP is built around everyday situations in Canada: writing an email to a landlord, talking about a workplace problem, or answering a community survey. IELTS General Training also uses everyday English, such as letters, notices and short texts, and it is used for many countries, not only Canada.
The scoring scale
CELPIP scores line up directly with CLB levels, so a CELPIP score of 9 in a skill is CLB 9. IELTS uses band scores from 0 to 9, and each skill is converted to a CLB level with an official table. That is why the same CLB level needs different band scores in different skills. You can see the table in our article on Express Entry language scores.
Which one should you choose?
There is no single answer, and no test is "easier" for everyone. These questions help:
- Do you prefer a computer or a person for Speaking? If you prefer a computer, CELPIP may suit you. If you prefer a conversation, consider IELTS.
- Do you want a test that is useful outside Canada? IELTS is accepted in many countries. CELPIP is mainly used for Canadian immigration and professional purposes.
- Which format feels more comfortable? The best way to find out is to try both formats under test conditions.
Express Entry also accepts PTE Core, which is a third option. This article compares CELPIP and IELTS only.
A simple way to decide
Take one timed practice test in each format, and compare how you feel and how you score. Our CELPIP practice tests and IELTS practice tests are timed on screen, and you can do them at home. They are independent practice tests written by Apex Language Academy, not official ones, so the scores are raw marks and not official levels. They are still a good way to see which test you prefer.
Need help choosing?
Tell us your goal and your timeline, and we will suggest the best test and the best way to prepare. Call us on +1 778 513 2713, message us on WhatsApp, or use the contact form.
Sources: Government of Canada, Express Entry language testing. Rules and accepted tests can change, so always check the official page before you book a test.