IELTS vs. CELPIP vs. PTE: Comparing Your English Test Options for Canada Immigration

When aspiring to immigrate to Canada, demonstrating English language proficiency is a pivotal requirement to ensure you have the communication skills necessary to integrate smoothly into Canadian society. Three primary assessments recognized for this purpose are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), and the Pearson Test of English (PTE). Understanding the similarities and differences of these three Canada immigration English tests is essential for applicants aiming to enhance their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores under the Express Entry system.

Test Recognition and Acceptance

All three English tests — IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE — are accepted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for various immigration pathways, including permanent residency applications. However, their recognition varies globally.

IELTS is internationally renowned and widely accepted across numerous countries for immigration, academic, and professional purposes. CELPIP, meanwhile, is tailored specifically for Canadian English and is primarily recognized within Canada. Last but not least, the Pearson Test of English (PTE) has gained acceptance in multiple countries, and, as of January 2024, the language exam has been approved by IRCC for Canadian immigration applications.

Test Structure and Content

All three English tests in Canada assess four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. However, their formats differ:

IELTS

The IELTS offers two versions—Academic and General Training. For Canadian immigration, the General Training version is required. The test includes:

• Listening: 30 minutes, featuring four sections with various accents, including British, Australian, and North American.
• Reading: 60 minutes, comprising three sections with increasing difficulty.
• Writing: 60 minutes, with two tasks: writing a letter (150 words) and an essay (250 words).
• Speaking: 11 to 14 minutes, conducted face-to-face with an examiner.

CELPIP

The CELPIP is designed specifically for Canadian English proficiency assessment; it is entirely computer-based. The test includes:

• Listening: 47 to 55 minutes, covering everyday situations and discussions.
• Reading: 55 to 60 minutes, involving tasks like reading correspondence and analyzing information.
• Writing: 53 to 60 minutes, with tasks such as writing an email and responding to survey questions.
• Speaking: 15 to 20 minutes, with prompts related to personal experiences and opinions.

Pearson Test of English (PTE)

The PTE is a fully computer-based test that integrates skills within its sections. The test includes:

• Speaking and Writing: 54 to 67 minutes, featuring tasks like reading aloud, summarizing written text, and writing an email.
• Reading: 30 minutes, with multiple-choice questions and reordering paragraphs.
• Listening: 30 minutes, involving summarizing spoken texts and multiple-choice questions.

Scoring and Results

• IELTS: Scores each section on a band scale from 1 to 9, with half-point increments. Results are typically available within 13 days.
• CELPIP: Scores range from 1 to 12 for each section, with results usually released within 3 to 4 business days.
• PTE: Provides scores ranging from 10 to 90 for each skill, with results often available within 48 hours.

CLB Score Comparison for IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE

CLB Level	IELTS				CELPIP	Pearson Test of English
	IELTS Listening	IELTS Reading	IELTS Writing	IELTS Speaking	CELPIP Level	Listening	Reading	Speaking	Writing
12	9	9	9	9	12	89-90	88-90	89-90	90
11	9	8.5	8	8	11	89-90	88-90	89-90	90
10	8.5	8	7.5	7.5	10	89-90	88-90	89-90	90
9	8	7	7	7	9	82-88	78-87	84-88	88-89
8	7.5	6.5	6.5	6.5	8	71-81	69-77	76-83	79-87
7	6	6	6	6	7	60-70	60-68	68-75	69-78
6	5.5	5	5.5	5.5	6	50-59	51-59	59-67	60-68
5	5	4	5	5	5	39-49	42-50	51-58	51-59
4	4.5	3.5	4	4	4	28-38	33-41	42-50	41-50

Test Availability and Accessibility

• IELTS: Test centers are available globally, making the test accessible to candidates worldwide.
• CELPIP: While primarily available within Canada, CELPIP has expanded to select international locations.
• Pearson Test of English: Administered in numerous countries, providing flexibility for international applicants.

Cost Considerations

• Fees for IELTS exam in Canada: The IELTS cost in Canada typically ranges between CAD 310 and CAD 350, depending on the test center.
• Fees for CELPIP exam in Canada: The CELPIP exam costs CAD 290 plus taxes.
• Fees for PTE in Canada: The fee is around CAD 330, subject to location and booking time.

Impact on CRS Scores

Achieving high language proficiency scores can boost an applicant’s CRS points under Canada’s Express Entry system. With the draws being more competitive than ever, getting extra points for scoring high on your English tests can be the difference in receiving an ITA or being left on the pool for another draw. All three tests are calibrated to the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) to ensure standardized assessment across different tests. For instance, a higher CLB level can result in additional CRS points, enhancing the likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

Choosing the Right Test

Selecting the appropriate English test for Canada immigration depends on individual circumstances:

• Global Recognition: IELTS is a suitable choice if you are looking for a test with widespread international acceptance.
• Canadian Context: For those familiar with Canadian English and preferring a test designed within the Canadian context, CELPIP is ideal.
• Integrated Skills Assessment: If you prefer a test that combines multiple skills within its tasks and offers quick results, the Pearson English Test (PTE) is advantageous.

How Nihang Law Can Help

Understanding the nuances of IELTS, CELPIP, and PTE is crucial for Canadian immigration applicants aiming to maximize their CRS scores. Each test offers unique features tailored to different needs. At Nihang Law, we specialize in guiding clients through the Canada immigration process, including selecting the most suitable English test. Our experienced team provides personalized advice to help you navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration. Contact Nihang Law today at (416) 321-0353 or email info@nihanglaw.ca to book an appointment.