What Is the CELPIP Test?
The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program® is a test designed to assess the proficiency in the domain of English language. It is managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The CELPIP is Canada’s primary immigration language test.
The CELPIP® is given to individuals applying for the Canadian citizenship, to prove their ability to function in English. If you are taking the Canadian Citizenship test – see our Citizenship Study Guide
The test is designed to measure your knowledge of English, and abilities in everyday situations that involve communicating and interacting with others.
The CELPIP Test is meaning to assess your capability to develop in the Canadian society and to determine if you will be able to communicate effectively and correctly, so the questions are designed to assess your knowledge of English according to the normative of the Canadian English, including its accent. It’s important that you take this into account when preparing for it.
How to Prepare for the CELPIP
Practice makes all the difference preparing for the CELPIP® (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program).
The CELPIP test format measures your real-world English communication skills in
- listening
- reading
- writing
- speaking
— the same skills you use every day in Canada.
On this page, you’ll find free CELPIP practice questions designed by test experts to help you understand the format, improve your timing, and boost your confidence. Each question mirrors the real test so you can practice effectively, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and walk into test day fully prepared.
Whether you’re applying for permanent residency, a job, or citizenship, these study tools and strategy guides give you the edge you need to succeed. Start practicing today — and take the first step toward your best CELPIP score.
Free CELPIP Practice Questions by Section
CELPIP Sample Questions – Reading and Listening Practice
What format is the Listening Comprehension Section?
Listening Comprehension is multiple choice based on audio clips. The time limit is 47-55 minutes, and there are 7 subsections with specific types of questions assigned for each:
How many parts are in the CELPIP Listening test?
- 1 question of practice task
- 8 questions regarding Listening to Problem Solving
- 5 questions regarding Listening to a Daily Life Conversation
- 6 questions about Listening for Information
- 5 questions regarding Listening to a News Item
- 8 questions referring Listening to a Discussion
- 6 questions about Listening to Viewpoints
What format is the CELPIP Reading section and how long does it take?
The Reading section is multiple choice with 5 subsections to be completed in 55-60 minutes. The subsections are:
How many parts are in the reading test?
1 Practice Task
11 questions about Reading Correspondence
8 questions regarding Reading to Apply a Diagram
9 questions to assess Reading for Information
10 questions about Reading for Viewpoints
Start Preparing for CELPIP Today – Improve Your Score — Download Your CELPIP Study Guide Now
PDF Download Version — CELPIP Online Course — Paperback Version (Amazon)
What is on the CELPIP Writing section?
The CELPIP Writing section measures your ability to communicate clearly and effectively in everyday Canadian situations.
It includes two tasks:
- writing an email
- responding to a survey question
You’ll be evaluated on:
- organization
- clarity
- vocabulary
- tone
- how well you address the purpose of the task.
What kind of response to the Writing section are they looking for?
Your response should:
- use natural, practical English
- provide clear explanations
- details
- examples
What are some CELPIP Essay Prompts?
General English Grammar, Spelling and Punctuation Practice
Correcting Passages
Grammar
Grammar and Usage
Punctuation
Spelling
Spelling Rules
What are some tips for taking an Oral Exam?
Common Mistakes on the CELPIP
- Misunderstanding or not reading the instructions: A common mistake on any test is not reading or misunderstanding the instructions for each section. Make sure you understand what you are being asked to do or you could losing points unnecessarily.
- Not managing time effectively A common mistake is not managing your time. Don’t spend too much time on any one question. Tips for managing your time on a test
- Neglecting grammar and spelling Neglecting grammar and spelling can result in losing points on the writing and speaking sections.
- Not answering the question Make sure you answer what the question is asking! This a careless mistake that will cost you points.
- Using overly complex language Use clear and concise language to communicate effectively. If in doubt – shorter is better!
- Not practicing enough This is a common mistake for any test. Consistent practice is important to improve your English language skills and become familiar with the test format.
- Not seeking help Not seeking help will not solve any problems!
Common Mistakes on the CELPIP
CELPIP Practice Test Tips and Strategies
- Familiarize yourself with the test format Most of the questions are multiple choice – how to answer multiple choice CELPIP Multiple Choice Secrets
- Improve your English language skills Practice English grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and writing skills.
- Practice with sample tests Use practice tests to practice and familiarize yourself with the test format, types of questions, and the level of difficulty. This will help you identify your weaknesses and strengths.
- Take timed practice tests Practice taking timed tests to improve your speed and accuracy. CELPIP Course with timed tests
- Listen to English Listen to English audio and videos to improve your listening skills. You can also practice listening to different accents to become familiar with different dialects. Listening Comprehension Practice
- Speak English Practice speaking English with friends or family, or find a language exchange partner. This will help you become more comfortable speaking English and improve your pronunciation and fluency.
- Read English Read English texts, such as books, newspapers, and articles, to improve your reading skills. This will also help you improve your vocabulary and comprehension. Reading Comprehension Practice
Test Development Questions
The Listening section (in both tests) and Reading sections (in the CELPIP® General) have unscored questions that are used for test development. You won’t be told which one are the unscored control questions, so in order to pass the test you must do your best on all questions.
How to register
The CELPIP® offers online registration and mail registration, but they recommend for the candidates register online.
The first step is to download a CELPIP® Registration Form from the website, then fill it and submit it with every other documentation that’s required by mail.
The fees must be made in Canadian dollars (CAD$) and the amounts vary according to the country you are in and the region. Online payments are done through credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, American Express) as well as PayPal. If you are registering by mail you must pay the fees by money order. Complete Information on English language requirements for citizenship
Scores
There is no minimum pass score, instead CELPIP® assigns you a level according to your score. There are 12 levels, being 1 the lowest and 12 the highest.
CELPIP® Test scores are available in 8 business days after your test date, and are available in the account on CELPIP’s® website that you opened when register. There is a Express Rating that has your tests results ready in 3 business days after your test date, but requires an extra fee.
Your CELPIP® Official Score Report will also be delivered by mail to your registered address, via Canada Post.
Start Preparing for CELPIP Today – Improve Your Score — Download Your CELPIP Study Guide Now
PDF Download Version — CELPIP Online Course — Paperback Version (Amazon)
Date Published: Wednesday, July 4th, 2018
Date Modified: Tuesday, November 25th, 2025
Complete Test Preparation Inc. is not affiliated with the makers of the CELPIP, who are not involved in the production of, and do not endorse this publication.




