Are you thinking about taking the English test for Express Entry?
If you want to immigrate to Canada under Express Entry, you’ll need to take a language test as part of your application, in either English or French languages. The good news is that there are two different English tests you can choose from. The two most popular English tests for Express Entry are CELPIP and IELTS.
What is Express Entry?
The Express Entry system is an online immigration application system used by the Canadian government to select skilled immigrants for permanent residency. The system was introduced in 2015, and since then, it has been the primary selection method for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Together, these programs make up the bulk of Canada’s economic immigration programs.
To be eligible for Express Entry, candidates must first create an online Express Entry profile and they will be awarded points based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language ability, and whether they have a job offer from a Canadian employer. Candidates with the highest scores are then selected from the pool and invited to apply for permanent residency. The entire process typically takes around six months. For the Federal Skilled Worker Class, you will also need to meet 67 points in six selection factors to be eligible.
What is the IELTS exam?
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a test that measures your ability to communicate in English, both in writing and speaking. It's accepted by over 9,000 organizations worldwide, including universities, employers and governments.
There are two versions of the IELTS test: the academic and general training versions. The academic version is for people who want to study at a university or college, while the general training version is for people who want to work or migrate to a country where English is the main language.
The testing takes 3 hours to complete Listening + Reading + Writing language tests on the computer. Then in the afternoon, you will take the Speaking test, which requires speaking in front of a tester for 11-14 minutes.
The test costs $310.
What is the CELPIP exam?
The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is an English language test that is accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as proof of English proficiency for immigration purposes. The CELPIP test has two versions: the CELPIP-General test and the CELPIP-Academic test.
The CELPIP-General test is for people who want to live and work in Canada, while the CELPIP-Academic test is for people who want to study at a Canadian university or college.
The testing takes 3 hours.
All four language abilities: Speaking, Reading, Listening, Writing are all tested on the computer.
Costs $280.
![Guy taking CELPIP exam](https://wildmountainimmigration.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Untitled-1.jpg)
How are the language tests scored?
The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is a standard scale used to measure English language proficiency. The CLB scale ranges from 0 to 12, with 12 being the highest level of proficiency.
If you achieve a CLB score of 9 or higher, you are considered to have an excellent level of English proficiency. A CLB score of 6 or 7 is considered to be proficient, while a CLB score of 3 or 4 is considered to be basic. If you receive a Canadian Language Benchmark score of 0 or 1, you are considered to have a very limited level of English proficiency.
The minimum language requirements vary depending on the stream that you applying under and the NOC code your skilled work falls under.
What's the difference between the two language tests?
ILETS is a good choice for those who prefer paper-based tests and separate face-to-face speaking elements.
CELPIP, on the other hand, is superior for individuals seeking a computer-based exam and seeking a quicker and less stressful test experience.
IELTS is offered in more than 140 countries around the world, while CELPIP is only offered in 7 countries.
Which English test should you take?
If you want to immigrate to Canada, we recommend taking the CELPIP test since it's specifically designed for Canadian immigration purposes.
The main reason is that you can take the CELPIP exam all at one time rather than waiting a few hours to take the speaking exam, as you do with IELTS.
Secondly, it is cheaper.
Thirdly, people seem to be less nervous doing the whole exam on a computer, rather than having to speak to someone face to face as you do with IELTS.
CELPIP
CELPIP is an approved language test that is growing in popularity each year. The exam is designed to measure how well you use English in everyday situations. To achieve your best score on the CELPIP exam for Express Entry, it is important to prepare adequately and know what to expect on test day.
Minimum CELPIP score for express entry
There is a minimum CELPIP score for express entry. However the better you do the more points you can add to your Express Entry profile.
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in either French or English.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
In either French or English, a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 for NOC 0 and A occupations and CLB 5 for NOC B occupations.
Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
A Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 for speaking and listening, and a CLB 4 for reading and writing in either French or English.
How to prepare for the CELPIP exam
The best way to prepare for the CELPIP language test is to practice your English skills regularly. There are many resources available to help you improve your language proficiency, including online practice tests, textbooks and ESL classes. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the test format and what to expect on test day. The more you know about the exam, the less anxious you will feel on test day.
What to bring with you to the test centre
It is important to bring the correct identification documents with you to the test centre. You will need to show your passport or driver's license to the test administrator before you can begin the exam.
In addition, it is a good idea to bring a snack and some water to drink, as well as a pencil and eraser.
The test centre will provide you with a pen, but it is always good to have a backup.
The test format and what to expect on test day
The CELPIP language test is a computer-based test that is composed of four sections: listening, reading, writing and speaking. The exam lasts for three hours.
On test day, you will need to arrive at the test centre early to check-in and get settled. The test administrator will go over the rules of the exam with you and answer any questions you have. Once the exam begins, you will have to focus on the task at hand and use all of your English language skills to complete the test successfully.
How to relax and focus on the exam
One of the most important things to remember when taking the CELPIP exam is to stay calm and relaxed. If you are tense or anxious, it will be difficult to focus on the test and it will affect your language test results.
Here are a few tips for how to relax and focus on the exam:
- Get a good night's sleep before the exam so that you are well-rested
- Eat a healthy breakfast on the day of the exam to fuel your brain
- Arrive at the test centre early so that you have time to relax before the exam begins
- Take a few deep breaths and try some relaxation exercises before the exam begins
How to score well on the CELPIP exam
It is important to prepare well for the CELPIP exam if you want to score well. The best way to improve your chances of success is to practice regularly and learn all you can about the test format. In addition, it is helpful to be familiar with the English language grammar and vocabulary.
Here are a few tips for scoring well on the CELPIP exam:
- Practice your English skills regularly
- Understand common English grammar rules and vocabulary
- Do timed practice tests to get used to answering questions quickly
- Try to relax and stay focused while you are taking the test
- Get a good night's sleep before the exam so that you are well-rested
Tips for the listening and reading sections
The listening and reading sections of the CELPIP exam are both timed sections. You will have to answer questions as quickly as possible, so it is important to practice your time management skills. In addition, it is helpful to have a good understanding of the English language grammar and vocabulary.
Here are a few tips for improving your performance in the listening and reading sections:
- Practice your English skills regularly so that you are familiar with the language
- Understand common English grammar rules and vocabulary
- Do timed practice tests to get used to answering questions quickly
- Try to relax and stay focused while you are taking the test
![Guy learning English](https://wildmountainimmigration.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Untitled-1-2.jpg)
Tips for the writing and speaking sections
The writing and speaking sections of the CELPIP language test are timed together, so it is important to manage your time wisely. In the writing section, you will be asked to write a letter, essay or report. In the speaking section, you will be asked to respond to a question or give a presentation.
Here are a few tips for how to do well in the writing and speaking sections:
- Plan your answer before you start writing or speaking
- Stay on topic and focus on the task at hand
- Organize your thoughts so that your response is clear and concise
- Practice your English skills regularly to improve your proficiency
- Do timed practice tests to get used to
How to register for the CELPIP exam
To register for the CELPIP exam, you will need to create an account on the CELPIP website. Once you have created your account, you can log in and register for the exam.
You will need to provide your name, date of birth, contact information and credit card information. You can also choose to send your score to one or more universities or organizations. Once you have registered for the exam, you will receive a confirmation email with all the details about the test.
What to do if you don't achieve your desired language test results
If you don't achieve your desired score on the CELPIP exam, don't worry! There are a few things you can do to improve your chances of success the next time around.
First, practice your English skills regularly and learn all you can about the test format. In addition, be familiar with the English language grammar and vocabulary.
Finally, try to relax and focus on the test when you take it. If you follow these tips, you will be better prepared for the CELPIP exam and have a better chance of achieving your desired score.
Conclusion
If you are thinking about taking an English test for Express Entry, the CELPIP exam is a great choice.
After taking the exam you can put a profile into the Express Entry pool, which is the first step to gaining permanent residence.
The best way to improve your chances of success is to familiarize yourself with the format of the test, practice your English skills regularly and stay calm and focused on test day.
We hope our tips have helped you with your English test for Express Entry! Download our Express Entry ebook which will answer all of your questions! Or get in contact.
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Nicola Wightman
Nicola Wightman is a regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) under the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). Her professional immigration consultant number is R706497.
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