CELPIP Test Format 2026: Complete Guide to All 4 Sections

The CELPIP test can feel overwhelming when you don't know what's coming. But here's the truth: understanding the format is half the battle. Once you know exactly what each section looks like, how many questions you'll face, and how much time you have, you can walk into the test center with confidence.

This guide breaks down every section of the CELPIP-General test — part by part, question by question — so there are zero surprises on test day.

CELPIP Test at a Glance

Before we dive into each section, here's the big picture:

Key facts about the CELPIP format:

• The entire test is computer-based — no pencil, no paper, no face-to-face examiner
• You complete all four sections in one sitting: Listening → Reading → Writing → Speaking
• Once you move to the next section, you cannot go back
• Each section is scored independently on a scale of 1 to 12 (which maps directly to CLB levels)
• There is no penalty for wrong answers — always answer every question

Listening Section (47-55 Minutes)

The Listening section has 6 scored parts plus a practice task at the beginning. You'll hear each audio clip only once — there's no replay button.

Practice Task (Not Scored)

Before the real test begins, you get a quick warm-up with a short audio clip. This helps you adjust to the volume, headset, and pace. It's not scored, but use it to make sure your audio is working properly.

Part 1: Listening to Problem Solving

You'll hear everyday conversations where people are solving problems — like discussing travel plans, scheduling, or making decisions. Questions test your ability to understand practical details: numbers, times, prices, and solutions.

Tip: Listen for the final decision or agreed-upon plan. The speakers often discuss multiple options before settling on one.

Part 2: Listening to a Daily Life Conversation

A casual conversation between two people about everyday topics. This tests your understanding of opinions, attitudes, and implied meaning — not just the literal words.

Tip: Pay attention to tone of voice. Speakers might say one thing but mean another. Listen for phrases like "I suppose," "to be honest," or "actually" — these signal the speaker's real opinion.

Part 3: Listening for Information

Someone delivers structured information — like a tour guide, instructor, or customer service representative. Questions focus on explanations, sequences, and specific details.

Tip: The information comes in a logical order. If you miss something, keep listening — you can often figure out the answer from context.

Part 4: Listening to a News Item

A short news-style report similar to what you'd hear on the radio. Tests your ability to understand facts, causes, statistics, and reported information.

Tip: News items follow a predictable structure: what happened, who's involved, why it matters. Listen for numbers and statistics — they often appear in questions.

Part 5: Listening to a Discussion

A video clip of three people discussing a topic. The challenge is tracking who said what while following the conversation.

Tip: Before the audio plays, note the speakers' names. During the discussion, focus on each speaker's main position. Questions often ask "Who believes...?" or "Which speaker agrees with...?"

Part 6: Listening for Viewpoints

A single speaker talks at length about a topic. This is the longest audio clip and tests your ability to distinguish opinions from facts, understand reasoning, and follow an extended argument.

Tip: The speaker will often present both sides of an issue before giving their view. Listen for signal phrases like "I believe," "the evidence shows," or "some might argue" to distinguish facts from opinions.

Listening Section Summary

Reading Section (55-60 Minutes)

The Reading section has 4 parts with 38 questions total. Unlike Listening, you can go back and change answers within the Reading section (but not after you move to Writing).

Part 1: Reading Correspondence

You'll read a set of emails or messages and answer questions in two groups. The first group tests comprehension. The second may ask you to complete a response.

Tip: Read the emails carefully for who is writing to whom and why. The questions often test whether you understand the purpose, tone, and specific requests in the messages.

Part 2: Reading to Apply a Diagram

You'll read a passage alongside a diagram, map, or visual aid. Questions test your ability to connect written information with the visual.

Tip: Scan the diagram first to understand its layout. Then read the text. Many questions require you to match specific details from the text to locations or elements in the diagram.

Part 3: Reading for Information

A longer text where you need to find specific pieces of information. Each question asks which paragraph contains a particular detail.

Tip: Skim first, then scan. Read each paragraph heading or first sentence to build a mental map of where different topics are discussed. Then go to the questions and scan for the specific detail.

Part 4: Reading for Viewpoints

You'll read a text where different viewpoints are expressed — like letters to the editor, forum posts, or reviews. Questions test whether you can identify who holds which opinion.

Tip: This is similar to Listening Part 5 but in written form. Underline or mentally note each person's main argument. Questions often ask about agreement, disagreement, or specific positions.

Reading Section Summary

Writing Section (53 Minutes)

The Writing section has just 2 tasks. Both are typed on the computer, and both require 150-200 words. There is a built-in spell checker.

Task 1: Writing an Email

You'll receive a scenario and must write an email addressing specific points outlined in the prompt. The prompt typically gives you 3 bullet points to cover.

What you need to do:

• Address all bullet points in the prompt (don't skip any)
• Use the appropriate tone (formal, semi-formal, or informal depending on who you're writing to)
• Organize your email with a clear opening, body, and closing
• Stay within the word count

Tip: Spend 3-4 minutes planning before you write. Identify the tone (is it to a friend, a manager, or a business?), then allocate one paragraph per bullet point. Save 3 minutes at the end to review for grammar and spelling mistakes.

Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions

You'll be given a question with two options and must choose one, then explain and justify your choice with reasons and examples.

What you need to do:

• Choose one option clearly in your opening
• Provide 2-3 strong reasons for your choice
• Support each reason with specific examples or explanations
• Briefly acknowledge the other option (optional, but shows sophistication)

Tip: Don't overthink which option to choose. Pick the one you can write about most easily. The evaluators care about how well you express your opinion, not which option you picked.

Writing Section Summary

Speaking Section (15-20 Minutes)

The Speaking section has 8 tasks. You speak into a microphone — there is no human examiner. For each task, you get preparation time to think, then response time to speak.

This is where many test takers feel nervous, but remember: you're talking to a computer, not a person. Take a breath and speak naturally.

Task 1: Giving Advice

Someone needs your advice on a decision or situation. Give practical, specific advice.

Task 2: Talking About a Personal Experience

Describe a personal experience related to the prompt. Use specific details to make it vivid.

Task 3: Describing a Scene

You'll see an image and must describe what's happening. Cover who, what, where, and what might happen next.

Task 4: Making Predictions

Based on a scenario, predict what will happen and explain why.

Task 5: Comparing and Persuading

Compare two options and persuade someone to choose one. State your preference clearly and give reasons.

Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation

You're in a challenging situation and need to address it. Show diplomacy and problem-solving skills.

Task 7: Expressing Opinions

Share your opinion on a topic and support it with reasons and examples. This is one of two tasks with a longer speaking time.

Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation

Describe what's happening in an unusual scene and suggest explanations for it.

Speaking Section Summary

How CELPIP Scoring Works

Each of the four sections is scored on a scale of 1 to 12. These scores map directly to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels — so a CELPIP 9 = CLB 9.

Scoring is independent per section. You could score 10 in Listening and 7 in Writing — each skill is evaluated separately. For immigration purposes, you must meet the minimum CLB in every skill.

Results are typically available 3-4 business days after the test (or 3 days with Express Rating). Scores are valid for 2 years.

Test Day Quick Reference

Here's everything you need to remember on test day:

Before the test:

• Arrive 45 minutes early (you'll be denied entry if you're more than 15 minutes late — no refund)
• Bring your original, valid government-issued ID (the same one used to register)
• Leave all personal items at home or in a locker — nothing is allowed in the test room except your ID

During the test:

• The test goes in order: Listening → Reading → Writing → Speaking
• No breaks between sections (use the washroom before you start)
• There's a timer on screen for every section
• You can go back within a section but never between sections
• A spell checker is available in the Writing section

After the test:

• Results in 3-4 business days (check your CELPIP account online)
• Score reports can be sent directly to IRCC for immigration applications

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the CELPIP test in total?

The CELPIP-General test takes approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including all four sections. With check-in time, plan for about 3.5-4 hours at the test center.

Can I take the sections on different days?

No. All four sections must be completed in one sitting on the same day. You cannot split them across multiple sessions.

Is there a break during the CELPIP test?

There is no official break. The test runs continuously through all four sections. You can use the washroom during the test by raising your hand, but the timer will not pause.

Can I go back and change my answers?

Within the Listening and Reading sections, you can go back to previous questions within that section only. Once you move to the next section, you cannot return.

Is the Speaking section face-to-face?

No. You speak into a microphone connected to the computer. There is no human examiner in front of you. Your responses are recorded and evaluated later.

What if I don't finish a section in time?

The test automatically moves to the next section when time runs out. Any unanswered questions count as blank — so always answer every question, even if you have to guess.

Can I take notes during the test?

You are provided with a notepad and pencil at the test center for taking notes during the Listening section. These must be returned after the test.

Is the CELPIP Online test the same as the in-person test?

The format and content are the same, but CELPIP Online cannot be used for immigration or citizenship purposes. If you need scores for IRCC applications, you must take the test at an official test center.