CELPIP General vs CELPIP General LS
Choose the test that matches your application and check the current requirements before booking.
Both tests share the CELPIP name, but they assess different skills. The right choice depends on the organization and program receiving your scores.
2.1 CELPIP General: four skills
General assesses Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking in a single session lasting under three hours. For Express Entry, IRCC specifically requires CELPIP General if you choose a CELPIP test.
| Skill | Approximate time | What you do |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 46–55 minutes | Listen and answer questions. |
| Reading | 43–56 minutes | Read texts and answer questions. |
| Writing | 53 minutes | Write an email and a survey response. |
| Speaking | 15 minutes | Complete eight spoken tasks. |
See the official General format for current details.
2.2 CELPIP General LS: two skills
General LS assesses Listening and Speaking only. It may be used to prove language ability for Canadian citizenship. IRCC also accepts CELPIP General results for citizenship when Listening and Speaking meet the required level.
General LS is not General
General LS cannot replace the four-skill CELPIP General test required for Express Entry.
Check IRCC’s citizenship language evidence and Express Entry requirements .
2.3 Study, Australia, and other uses
Study in Canada
The Student Direct Stream (SDS) closed on November 8, 2024. If a school asks for a language score, confirm which test and score it accepts directly with the school.
IRCC announcementAustralia and other organizations
Australia lists CELPIP General for eligible visa applications when taken at a secure test centre. Check the visa category, score, date, and test-centre conditions.
Australian requirementsWhich test should you book?
- Express Entry: CELPIP General, with the levels required by your program.
- Canadian citizenship: General or General LS, provided the Listening and Speaking results meet IRCC’s requirements.
- Other applications: Confirm the accepted test, score, and test location with the receiving organization.
Fees vary by location and date. Check CELPIP’s current booking information before paying.
Continue to CELPIP Scoring and CLB Levels
Next, learn how each section is scored and what your target level means.
CELPIP Goal is an independent preparation platform. Follow the official requirements for your application.