CELPIP Score Chart and Test Breakdown 2025
2025-02-04 2025-04-11 14:55CELPIP Score Chart and Test Breakdown 2025
Express Entry is the most common immigration process for Canada. Its Comprehensive Ranking Score (CRS) ranks candidates for acceptance based on various criteria. One important criteria is your capacity for English or French, which is reflected by language proficiency tests.
English proficiency tests include the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), both of which are approved and accepted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). This article primarily focuses on CELPIP, because it is designed for those seeking permanent residency and citizenship.
What is the CELPIP Test?
The CELPIP test (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is an English language proficiency test designed specifically for Canadian immigration. It is widely accepted for Express Entry, permanent residency, and Canadian citizenship applications.
Unlike other proficiency tests, CELPIP is entirely computer-based, and the entire exam is completed in a single 3-hour sitting. The test assesses your skills in listening, reading, writing, and speaking, and the CELPIP score helps determine your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level, which is essential for immigration applications
Who should take CELPIP?
CELPIP is ideal for individuals who are:
- Applying for Express Entry for Canadian permanent residency.
- Seeking Canadian citizenship.
Completing language requirements for various Canadian programs.
For the latest test information, registration details, and test preparation materials: CELPIP EXAM INFORMATION
What is the CELPIP General Training?
CELPIP General Training is the version required for Express Entry applicants. The CELPIP General test assesses your skills in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking and is conducted in a single 3-hour sitting. The test is computer-based, and the minimum score requirement to be eligible for permanent residency is 5 in each of the four test categories.
- Test cost: $265 plus tax.
- Result availability: 10-12 days after the test.
- For a $100 fee, CELPIP offers an express rating system that delivers your results within 3 business days.
Fun Fact: Some questions in the Listening and Reading sections are unscored for test development purposes. These unscored questions are indistinguishable from scored ones and have no impact on your score.
CELPIP Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking Score Breakdown
CELPIP Score Chart: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
The CELPIP test evaluates your proficiency in four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Below is the breakdown of the CELPIP scores corresponding to each CLB level.
CLB Level | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking |
CLB 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
CLB 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
CLB 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
CLB 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
CELPIP Listening Score Chart
The Listening section measures your ability to understand spoken English. It consists of 6 parts and lasts approximately 47 minutes.
|
CELPIP Level |
Listening Score (out of 38) |
|
CLB 10 |
35-38 |
|
CLB 9 |
33-35 |
|
CLB 8 |
30-33 |
|
CLB 7 |
27-31 |
|
CLB 6 |
22-28 |
|
CLB 5 |
17-23 |
|
CLB 4 |
11-18 |
|
CLB 3 |
7-12 |
CELPIP Reading Score Chart
The Reading section evaluates your ability to comprehend written materials, including articles, advertisements, and other texts. This section includes 4 parts and lasts about 55 minutes.
|
CELPIP Level |
Reading Score (out of 38) |
|
CLB 10 |
33-38 |
|
CLB 9 |
31-33 |
|
CLB 8 |
28-31 |
|
CLB 7 |
24-28 |
|
CLB 6 |
19-25 |
|
CLB 5 |
15-20 |
|
CLB 4 |
10-16 |
|
CLB 3 |
8-11 |
CELPIP Writing Score Chart
The Writing section tests your ability to communicate clearly in written English. It includes 2 tasks, such as writing emails and responding to situations in writing, and lasts for 53 minutes.
|
Categories |
Factors |
|
1.Content/Coherence |
Number of ideas |
|
Quality of ideas |
|
|
Organization of ideas |
|
|
Examples and supporting details |
|
|
2. Vocabulary |
Word choice |
|
Suitable use of words and phrases |
|
|
Range of words and phrases |
|
|
Precision and accuracy |
|
|
3. Readability |
Format and paragraphing |
|
Connectors and transitions |
|
|
Grammar and sentence structure |
|
|
Spelling and punctuation |
CELPIP Speaking Score Chart
In the Speaking section, your ability to express yourself clearly and confidently in English is tested through 8 tasks. The section lasts about 20 minutes and is conducted in front of a computer.
|
Categories |
Factors |
|
1. Content/Coherence |
Number of ideas |
|
Quality of ideas |
|
|
Organization of ideas |
|
|
Examples and supporting details |
|
|
2. Vocabulary |
Word choice |
|
Precision and accuracy |
|
|
Range of words and phrases |
|
|
Suitable use of words and phrases |
|
|
3. Readability |
Rhythm, pronunciation, and intonation |
|
Pauses, interjections, and self-correction |
|
|
Grammar and sentence structure |
|
|
Variety of sentence structure |
|
|
4. Task Fulfillment |
Relevance |
|
Completeness |
|
|
Tone |
|
|
Length |
For reference as to what CLB Benchmarks mean as defined by the Canadian government:
How to Improve Your CELPIP Score
Achieving a high CELPIP score can significantly improve your CRS points in Express Entry. Here are some effective strategies to help you prepare:
CELPIP Preparation Tips
- Take Sample Tests: Familiarize yourself with the test format by practicing with free CELPIP sample tests.
- Focus on Your Weak Areas: Identify the sections where you score lower and work on improving them.
- Enhance Your Vocabulary: A broad vocabulary is key to performing well in the reading and writing sections.
- Time Management: Practice taking the test within the allotted time to ensure you complete all sections.
- Improve Listening Skills: Listen to podcasts, news, and other media in English to improve your listening comprehension.
Ready to boost your CELPIP score? Enroll in our CELPIP course and get expert training, mock tests, and personalized feedback—plus a free course extension if you don’t achieve your target score. With support from experienced instructors and a results-focused approach, your success is our priority.
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