CELPIP or IELTS General Training?
Both are accepted for Express Entry. They test the same four skills in different ways.
| CELPIP-General | All on a computer, one sitting, speaking recorded |
|---|---|
| IELTS General | Speaking with an examiner, sometimes on another day |
| CELPIP scores | Levels 1 to 12, same number as CLB from 3 up |
| IELTS scores | Bands 0 to 9, converted to CLB with IRCC's table |
Choose by the speaking test
The biggest difference is Speaking. CELPIP records you speaking to a computer, with a timer. IELTS has a conversation with an examiner. If you freeze when talking to people, CELPIP may suit you; if you need a listener's face, IELTS may.
Choose by the contexts
CELPIP uses everyday North American situations: landlords, neighbours, community centres, workplaces. IELTS General uses a mix of everyday and training contexts in international English.
Convert your score
Use our converter to see which IELTS General band matches your CELPIP level in each skill, using IRCC's CLB table.
Next step
Questions people ask
Is CELPIP easier than IELTS?
It depends on you. The tests measure the same skills; the formats differ. Many candidates choose the one whose speaking test suits them.
Does IRCC prefer one test?
No. Both are accepted for Express Entry English results. Programs set CLB levels, and both tests convert to CLB.