Thinking about immigrating to Canada? You’ll likely need to prove your English proficiency, and that’s where the CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) test comes in.
Whether you’re applying for permanent residence, Canadian citizenship, or study/work opportunities, these FAQs will help you navigate the CELPIP journey with ease
What is CELPIP and why is it important for Nigerians and Ghanaians?
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) is an English test accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence and by some institutions.
Which versions of CELPIP are available?
The main ones are CELPIP-General (all four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) and CELPIP-General LS (Listening & Speaking, for Canadian citizenship).
Is CELPIP accepted for immigration from Nigeria or Ghana?
Yes. IRCC designates CELPIP as a valid English proficiency test for permanent residence.
Can I take CELPIP online (remotely from Nigeria or Ghana)?
No. Although the CELPIP test is computer-delivered, it must be taken in person at designated test centers.
How long is my CELPIP result valid?
The scores are available for 2 years from the test date. However, institutions or immigration authorities may impose their own expiry limits.
Are there CELPIP test centers in Nigeria and Ghana?
Yes, the test is available internationally. You should check the CELPIP website for the current list of test centers in Lagos, Accra, or other cities.
How often are tests offered in Nigeria / Ghana?
It depends on the test center’s scheduling and capacity. Because test slots can fill up, registering in advance is recommended.
Can I choose any test center in Nigeria or Ghana when registering?
Yes, if the center has availability. But you must pick from the list of centers offered in your country during registration.
If my city doesn’t have a center, can I travel to another city or even country to take CELPIP?
Yes, you may travel to another city or country (if it has a test center). However, you must ensure that you register for the correct location and are physically present.
Will Nigeria or Ghana have new test centers in the future?
Possibly, CELPIP continues to expand globally. Monitor the official site for announcements on new locations.
How do I register for CELPIP from Nigeria or Ghana?
Registration is done online through the CELPIP website or portal. Test centers do not process registrations themselves.
What forms of payment are accepted for international candidates?
CELPIP payments can be done with the Pay4Me App within 10 minutes.
Can I pay in local currency (e.g. Naira or Ghana Cedi)?
The Pay4Me App accepts local currency during payment, making it a swift and easier-to-use platform compared to most.
What does CELPIP stand for?
CELPIP stands for the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program.
Who accepts CELPIP scores?
CELPIP is officially accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence, citizenship, and various professional designations.
What is the difference between CELPIP-General and CELPIP-General LS?
CELPIP-General tests all four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It's for permanent residence and professional designations.
CELPIP-General LS tests only Listening and Speaking. It's primarily for Canadian citizenship applications.
Which is easier: CELPIP or IELTS?
CELPIP is fully computer-delivered and uses Canadian English, which some find easier. The "best" test depends on your personal strengths (e.g., typing speed, comfort with accents).
18. How long is the CELPIP test valid?
CELPIP test scores are valid for two years from the date of your test.
Is CELPIP accepted for Canadian citizenship?
Yes, the CELPIP-General LS test is specifically designed and accepted for Canadian citizenship applications.
How much does the CELPIP test cost?
The cost varies by location but is typically around CAD $280 - $330 for the CELPIP-General test. Check the official website for precise pricing in your test city. You can make this payment via the Pay4Me App.
How often can I take the CELPIP test?
You can take the test as often as it is offered, but you cannot register for two test dates that are within 3 days of each other.
Who creates and administers the CELPIP test?
The CELPIP test is developed and administered by Paragon Testing Enterprises, a subsidiary of the University of British Columbia.
Is CELPIP a Canadian test?
Yes, it is designed in Canada and uses Canadian English, accents, and contexts.
How do I register for the CELPIP test?
Registration is done online through the official CELPIP website.
What identification do I need for the test?
You will need one piece of valid, government-issued photo ID with your signature (e.g., a passport or driver's license). The name on your ID must match your registration exactly.
Can I change my test date or test centre?
Yes, you can request a transfer, but fees apply, and it must be done within a specific timeframe before your test (usually 30 days for a full refund/transfer).
What if I need to cancel my test?
Cancellations are possible, but refunds are partial and depend on the amount of notice provided.
What should I bring to the test centre?
Your valid ID. Everything else (pens, paper, etc.) is provided. You are not allowed to bring personal items, such as phones, wallets, or bags, into the testing room.
Can I take the test from home?
Yes, CELPIP offers a CELPIP-General Online and CELPIP-General LS Online proctored remotely. Availability may vary.
How long is the entire test session?
For the CELPIP-General test, plan for about 3 hours in the test centre, including check-in, instructions, and the test itself.
I have a disability. Can I request special accommodations?
Yes, Paragon Testing provides accommodations for test takers with disabilities. You must request this during registration and provide supporting documentation.
What is the test schedule like?
All test components (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking) are completed in one sitting, with short breaks between some sections.
Where can I find a test centre near me?
Use the test centre locator on the official CELPIP website.
What is the format of the CELPIP test?
It is entirely computer-based, including the Speaking test.
How long is each CELPIP section?
Listening: 47-55 minutes | Reading: 55-60 minutes | Writing: 53-60 minutes | Speaking: 15-20 minutes.
How many tasks are in each section?
Listening: 7 parts | Reading: 4 parts | Writing: 2 tasks | Speaking: 8 tasks.
What types of questions are in the Listening test?
Questions include listening to short conversations, news items, and a discussion, followed by multiple-choice questions.
What types of passages are in the Reading test?
You'll read correspondence (emails/letters), diagrams, and longer passages from various sources, answering comprehension questions.
What are the two writing CELPIP tasks?
Task 1: Writing an Email (approx. 150-200 words).
Task 2: Responding to a Survey Question and justifying your opinion (approx. 150-200 words).
What are the eight Speaking tasks?
They include giving advice, talking about a personal experience, describing a scene, predicting, comparing and persuading, dealing with a difficult situation, and expressing opinions.
Is the CELPIP Speaking test done with a live examiner?
No. You speak into a microphone, and your responses are recorded and rated later by certified CELPIP raters.
Do I get any breaks during the test?
There is a short, scheduled break between the Reading and Writing sections.
Can I go back and change my answers in the Reading and Listening sections?
Yes, you can navigate freely within a section and change your answers before moving on to the next section.
What is the word count for the Writing tasks?
The recommended length is 150-200 words for each task. A word counter is provided on the screen.
Is there a spell-check feature in the Writing test?
No, there is no auto-correct or spell-check. You must type accurately.
What kind of accents is used in the CELPIP Listening test?
The test features a variety of standard Canadian English accents.
Can I take notes during the CELPIP test?
Yes, you will be provided with scratch paper and a pen for note-taking during all sections.
How is the CELPIP Speaking test structured?
You are given preparation time (30 or 60 seconds) and response time (60 or 90 seconds) for each task. The instructions and timer are on the screen.
What is the CELPIP scoring scale?
Scores range from M (Minimum) to 12 (Advanced Proficiency) for each skill. You get a score for each section and an overall score.
What is a "good" CELPIP score?
A "good" score depends on your goal. For many Express Entry profiles, a score of CLB 9 (which is a CELPIP score of 9 in each skill) is the target.
How long does it take to get my CELPIP results?
Official scores are available online in your CELPIP account in 4-5 calendar days after your test date.
How will I receive my CELPIP results?
You will get an email notification when your scores are available to view in your online CELPIP account.
Do I get a physical copy of my CELPIP Test Report Form?
You can download and print a PDF copy from your account. For IRCC, you simply provide your unique test reference number.
Can I request a re-evaluation (rescoring) of my CELPIP test?
Yes, you can file a "Score Review" request for a fee within 6 months of your test date.
What is the CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark)?
CLB is the national standard for describing and measuring English language proficiency. CELPIP scores are aligned directly with CLB levels (e.g., CELPIP 9 = CLB 9).
Can I send my CELPIP scores to multiple institutions?
You can order additional score reports for a fee through your CELPIP account.
What happens if I miss one section of the CELPIP test?
You must complete all sections of the test you registered for to receive a score. If you miss one, you will not get a complete test report.
My CELPIP score is expiring soon for my immigration application. What should I do?
You must have a valid test score on the day your application is submitted. If it's expiring, you will likely need to retake the test.
What is the best way to prepare for the CELPIP test?
Use the free and paid resources on the official CELPIP website, including sample tests, webinars, and practice books.
Are there any free practice tests?
Yes, the CELPIP website offers a free sample test and free webinars.
What is the most important tip for the Speaking test?
Practice speaking into a microphone and get used to the timed format. Speak clearly, calmly, and logically structure your responses.
What is the most important tip for the CELPIP Writing test?
Practice typing and manage your time wisely. Allow a few minutes at the end to review and correct any spelling and grammatical mistakes. Listen carefully to all instructions and use the practice questions provided at the start of each section to become familiar with the system.
CELPIP remains one of the most convenient English tests for immigration to Canada, especially since it’s fully computer-based and designed in Canadian English.
If you’re in Nigeria, Kenya, Cameroon, or Ghana, you can register online and pay easily in Naira or Cedi using the Pay4Me App, which simplifies international fee payments in under 10 minutes.
