Test day nerves are completely normal — almost everyone feels them. But most of that anxiety comes from not knowing what to expect. Once you know exactly what happens from the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, the whole experience feels a lot less intimidating.
This guide walks you through every step of CELPIP test day so you can focus on what matters: performing your best.
The work you do the day before your test is just as important as weeks of studying. Here's your pre-test-day checklist:
Critical: If you forget your ID or bring the wrong one, you will not be allowed to take the test — and you will not receive a refund. Double-check this the night before.
This is where many test takers make mistakes. The rules are strict.
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Government-issued photo ID | Original, valid, matching your registration name |
| Test confirmation | Printed or accessible on your phone (for reference only — not needed inside) |
| Comfortable clothing | Layers recommended — rooms can be cold |
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Cell phone | Not allowed in the test room — must be turned off and stored |
| Smart watch or fitness tracker | Considered an electronic device |
| Bags, backpacks, purses | Stored in a locker or designated area |
| Food and drinks | Not permitted in the test room (water may vary by location) |
| Notes, books, study materials | Absolutely no reference materials allowed |
| Headphones or earbuds | The test center provides a headset |
| Jewelry (excessive) | Watches must be removed; keep jewelry minimal |
Pro tip: Leave valuables at home. While most test centers have lockers, they're small and not always secure. Bring only what you absolutely need.
Here's what happens step by step when you arrive:
Reception check-in: You'll approach the front desk and provide your name. Staff will look up your registration.
ID verification: A staff member will carefully check your ID against your registration details. They'll verify your name, photo, and that the ID is valid and unexpired.
Photo capture: Your photo will be taken at the test center. This photo appears on your score report, so IRCC can verify your identity.
Digital signature: You'll sign a digital agreement confirming your identity and agreeing to the test rules.
Personal items storage: All personal belongings go into a locker or storage area. You'll receive a locker key or tag. Remember your locker number.
Security check: You'll be asked to turn out your pockets, roll up your sleeves and pantlegs, and remove glasses for inspection. At some centers, you may also be scanned with a metal detector wand. This is standard — don't take it personally.
Seating assignment: You'll be directed to your assigned computer station. Staff will help you get settled and show you how to adjust your headset and microphone.
When you walk into the test room, here's what you'll see:
The room is typically quiet with minimal distractions. You'll hear other people typing and occasionally speaking (during the Speaking section), but the headset helps block most external noise.
The CELPIP test follows a fixed order. Here's what to expect as you move through each section.
| Order | Section | Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Listening | 47-55 min | Audio plays once — no replay |
| 2 | Reading | 55-60 min | Can go back within this section |
| 3 | Writing | 53 min | Built-in spell checker available |
| 4 | Speaking | 15-20 min | Speak into the microphone — no examiner |
| Total | ~3 hours |
The Speaking section is the most unique part of the test, and it catches some people off guard:
Tip: Speak at a natural volume — not too quiet, not too loud. The microphone is close to your mouth, so there's no need to project your voice across the room.
| Section | Strategy |
|---|---|
| Listening | You can't control the pace — just focus on each clip as it plays |
| Reading | Spend roughly 13-15 min per part. If stuck on a question for 60+ seconds, guess and move on |
| Writing | Task 1: 4 min plan, 20 min write, 3 min review. Task 2: 3 min plan, 20 min write, 3 min review |
| Speaking | Use all 30 seconds of prep time — don't start speaking early |
Print this out or screenshot it the night before:
The night before:
Morning of:
At the test center:
Check-in closes 15 minutes before your scheduled start time. If you arrive after check-in closes, you will be denied entry. No refund or transfer is provided. Aim to arrive 45 minutes early to account for any delays.
Food is not allowed in the test room. Water policies vary by test center — some allow a clear water bottle, others don't. Eat a proper meal before arriving and use the washroom before the test begins.
Raise your hand immediately. Test center staff are trained to handle technical problems. In rare cases where issues affect your performance, CELPIP may offer a free retest. Don't try to fix the problem yourself.
Policies vary by test center. Some allow foam earplugs during non-listening sections, while others don't. If noise sensitivity is a concern, ask the test center about their policy when you register.
It's not required inside the test room, but having your confirmation email accessible (on your phone or printed) can help during check-in if there are any issues with your registration.
Yes, it's possible. Test takers start at slightly different times, so someone near you may be in the Speaking section while you're still on Writing (or vice versa). The headset helps block out noise, and the dividers provide visual privacy.
You can use the washroom during the test — raise your hand and a staff member will escort you. However, the timer will not stop. Try to use the washroom before the test starts to avoid losing valuable time.
You can book a new test as soon as you'd like. There's no mandatory waiting period between attempts. Many people retake within a few weeks after getting their results.
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