Test Overview
Test Structure¶
The CELPIP-General test has 4 sections completed in one sitting (~3 hours).
1. Listening (47-55 minutes)¶
| Part | Task | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Listening to Problem Solving | 8 |
| 2 | Listening to a Daily Life Conversation | 5 |
| 3 | Listening for Information | 6 |
| 4 | Listening to a News Item | 5 |
| 5 | Listening to a Discussion | 8 |
| 6 | Listening to Viewpoints | 6 |
Key Points: - Audio plays ONCE only - Canadian/North American accents - Multiple choice questions
2. Reading (55-60 minutes)¶
| Part | Task | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Reading Correspondence | 11 |
| 2 | Reading to Apply a Diagram | 8 |
| 3 | Reading for Information | 9 |
| 4 | Reading for Viewpoints | 10 |
Key Points: - Mix of practical and academic texts - Time management is critical - Some questions have drop-down menus
3. Writing (53-60 minutes)¶
| Task | Description | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Task 1 | Writing an Email | 27 minutes |
| Task 2 | Responding to Survey Questions | 26 minutes |
Key Points: - On-screen typing - Word count suggestions (not strict limits) - Spell check available
4. Speaking (15-20 minutes)¶
| Task | Description | Prep | Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Giving Advice | 30s | 90s |
| 2 | Talking About Personal Experience | 30s | 60s |
| 3 | Describing a Scene | 30s | 60s |
| 4 | Making Predictions | 30s | 60s |
| 5 | Comparing and Persuading | 60s | 60s |
| 6 | Dealing with a Difficult Situation | 60s | 60s |
| 7 | Expressing Opinions | 30s | 90s |
| 8 | Describing an Unusual Situation | 30s | 60s |
Key Points: - Speak into headset microphone - Recorded responses - No interaction with examiner
Test Day Tips¶
- Arrive early - 30 minutes before
- Bring valid ID - Government-issued photo ID
- Get comfortable - Adjust chair, headset, screen
- Use all your time - Don't rush, don't leave early